2014 Mitsubishi Outlander at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show
- Competes with: Ford Edge, Kia Sorento, Toyota Highlander
- Looks like: Outlander loses some weight and gets a spruced-up interior
- Drivetrain: 2.4-liter four-cylinder or 3.0-liter V-6; CVT or six-speed automatic transmission
- Hits dealerships: TBD
The clunky, chunky Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the least competitive crossovers in the class. A redesign for the 2014 model year should add some sophistication, both inside and out.
The new Outlander gets sleeker exterior styling, a more upscale interior and revised engines. The third generation of Mitsubishi’s largest SUV loses an inch in length and weighs about 200 pounds lighter than the outgoing model.
More 2012 L.A. Auto Show Coverage
Changes to the exterior styling include a restyled grille, a raised belt line, a more contoured body and wraparound headlamps. Mitsubishi said the new design reduces aerodynamic drag, but the automaker wasn’t specific about fuel-economy gains.
Inside, there’s standard seating for seven passengers, a revised control layout and more premium materials, including a soft-touch instrument panel, woodgrain trim and glossy black “center waterfall” design.
Also new are three new safety systems: lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and forward-collision mitigation. More optional convenience features are available, including a Rockford Fosgate stereo, a power tailgate activated from the driver’s seat or by the key fob, and the next generation of Mitsubishi’s navigation system.
