Four years after the launch of the current generation Mitsubishi Outlander, it is undergoing its first facelift to remain competitive against newer 7-seater crossovers like the Chery Tiggo 8, Skoda Kodiaq, and Peugeot 5008.
The update is being implemented in two stages: For now, a series of design, cabin, and chassis updates are being launched, and next year a new engine will arrive as well.
The design updates include a new front end, a grille connected to the bumper (not lifting with the hood), and new rear light units, adding just one centimeter to the total length, now at 4.72 meters, without affecting cabin space. There are also aerodynamic improvements under the vehicle, which the manufacturer claims reduce fuel consumption by about one percent.
At the same time, the steering system, springs, shock absorbers, and stabilizer bars have been recalibrated to improve ride comfort, deliver more precise road handling, better control, and a stronger sense of confidence for the driver—areas where the Outlander hasn't stood out until now.
The cabin features a new center console, new upholstery materials, and ventilated front seats in some trim levels. Most notably, a YAMAHA sound system has been added, with between 8 and 12 speakers. Additional insulation material is supposed to further improve its acoustic performance.
Intense (from NIS 192,000): Upgraded to a 12.3" screen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 18" wheels, electrically folding side mirrors, and an 8-speaker Yamaha sound system. Safety equipment includes 11 airbags, autonomous emergency braking front and rear, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, driver fatigue warning, and a reminder for children left in the car—but no adaptive cruise control.
Executive (from NIS 205,000): Adds an active lane-centering system with automatic correction, active lane departure prevention, active blind-spot collision prevention, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, rain sensors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, front LED fog lights, and two USB ports in the front console and second-row seats.
Instyle (from NIS 211,000): Adds 20" alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, roof rails, heated front seats, keyless entry and start, and a wireless phone charger.
Premium (from NIS 224,000): Adds synthetic leather seats in black or light gray, built-in navigation, a full 12.3" digital dashboard, and power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Luxury (from NIS 239,000): Comes with genuine leather seats in light gray or black, ventilated front seats, 360° cameras, tri-zone climate control, power tailgate, and LED lighting.
Luxury 4X4 (from NIS 249,000): Includes all-wheel drive, drive mode selector, and hill descent control.
Luxury 2X4 (from NIS 249,000): Includes front-wheel drive along with brown leather upholstery, heated rear seats, power front passenger seat, and two-tone exterior paint. The sound system is upgraded to 12 speakers.
Engine and Performance: The familiar 2.5-liter engine continues for now, paired with a CVT, producing 181 hp and 25 kgm of torque. 0–100 km/h in 9.7 seconds for FWD models, 10 seconds for AWD, a top speed of 190 km/h, and combined fuel consumption of 11.5 km/l for FWD and 11 km/l for AWD.
In the third quarter of next year, the engine will be replaced with a 1,500cc mild hybrid turbo, with specs yet to be revealed. It may offer lower output but improved fuel efficiency.
The Outlander remains one of the most affordable 7-seaters on the market in its base model, and the cheapest 7-seater with all-wheel drive. It's a shame Mitsubishi couldn’t coordinate the facelift with the new engine launch to offer a more substantial and much-needed refresh. Since its launch in Israel, 70,000 Outlanders have been sold, including 18,000 units of the current generation. Since the beginning of the year, 3,066 units have already hit Israeli roads.