2013 Mitsubishi Outlander: Derived from the PX-MIEV

Up till now, we have seen two versions of Mitsubishi’s PX-MIEV concept car. But soon, the concept will evolve into a production model. In fact, it’s slated to be unveiled next month at the Geneva Auto Show.

Currently still being developed, this model will actually become the third generation of the Outlander SUV.

When it initially debuted in Japan in 2001, this SUV was called the Airtrek. It didn’t become the Outlander SUV until two years later. The current model made its first appearance on some markets in 2005, before coming to North America the following year.

A very different vision

The Mitsubishi Outlander III has been totally rethought, redesigned and revised, from one end to the other.

Its exterior is more mature, giving off the impression that it is a higher end vehicle.

The front treatment includes a new unique grille that can be equipped with xenon lights.

In terms of size, generation three is the same as its predecessor.

An all-new interior

The new vehicle will also be able to accommodate up to seven passengers. The cabin has been completely redesigned and now includes many more functionalities.

Mitsubishi’s interior design experts have created a special dashboard to help drivers keep their concentration – most notably by improving its layout.

Storage spaces and the cargo hold have also been improved.

Some trims will also offer xenon lighting in the vehicle’s interior.

Two- or four-wheel drive

The four- and six-cylinder engines that equip the current Outlander will be replaced by a 2.0L four-cylinder gas engine and a 2.2L four-cylinder turbodiesel. These will be paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.

A little further down the road, we can expect a hybrid plug-in to be offered. Its range is said to be 50 km in all-electric mode or 800 km when using its combustion engine.