2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Review
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a well-rounded SUV offering All-Wheel Drive Capability, versatility, and advanced features. It is loved by families in Kenya as it comfortably accommodates up to 7 people. The Outlander competes with the Toyota Harrier, Nissan X-Trail, Toyota Vanguard, Mazda CX5, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Subaru Forester.
Detailed Review
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a medium-sized SUV manufactured in Japan for four generations since 2001. The first generation was sold as Airtrek in Japan and Outlander in other markets. Production of the Airtrek ceased in 2008 and the name was dropped entirely. The third generation was launched in 2012 with a new hybrid known as the Outlander PHEV injected into the lineup. The PHEV is a radically different SUV with plug-in capability and most Kenyan buyers are interested in its long-term suitability to this market. The fourth generation Outlander has been in production from 2021 to the present.
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander comes with two engine options; the 2.4L MIVEC PHEV engine and a 2.5 L GM4W petrol engine. The petrol engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) while the PHEV powertrain uses a single-speed planetary gear system.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander grades
- M: This is the basic grade equipped with Fabric seats, Shift panel, LED headlights, LED position lamps, LED rear combination lamps, LED fog lamps, Multi-Around Monitor, and Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium.
- G: It features a full range of equipment, including 20-inch wheels, a Driver’s power seat, an electric tailgate, a keyless operation key, cruise control, a smartphone-linked navigation system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an 8-inch screen, a rear spoiler, and Mitsubishi Power Sound System.
- P: This is a high-end grade that comes standard with 20-inch alloys, high-quality interior and exterior, a BOSE premium sound system, a light gray roof, leather seats, a Head-up display, Adaptive LED Headlights with automatic beam axis adjustment mechanism and Headlight Washer, Fully automatic air conditioner with independent 3-zone temperature control and Electric tailgate.
Interior, Legroom & Space
The 2021 Outlander has a smart, stylish, futuristic yet familiar interior. The fourth-generation Outlander’s interior features an evolved horizontal axis, which makes it easier to grasp the changes in the vehicle’s posture while driving. A lot of the padding has been stitched to give it a high-quality texture.
The Outlander can seat up to seven people comfortably depending on the trim level. The front seats have ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder and the driver has a nice view of the road head. The second-row seats are equally comfortable even for six-foot passengers. The rear seats on the other hand are cramped and are best left for small-sized adults or kids.
Every passenger, even in the third row, can expect all the creature comforts such as air vents, cup holders, and charging points.
Interior features in the 2021 Outlander include; a 9.0-inch infotainment screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, three USB ports, and three 12-volt outlets.
Cabin Storage
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander comes with several storage compartments that are designed to improve the comfort of the passengers. The first row is fitted with a center console, a glove box compartment, door panel storage, and two cupholders. The second row has two cupholders mounted on the armrest, and door pockets. Passengers in the third-row seat have access to cupholders.
Boot Space
The 2021 Outlander has 167 liters of space with the third row up. In 5-seat mode, boot space increases to 478 liters. With all seats folded, you’ve got a massive 1461 liters.
Exterior
The exterior design of the 2021 Outlander has been upgraded, with the Dynamic Shield front design concept updated to create a sense of presence. The side profile features bold proportions with thick horizontal accents extending from the front to the rear end, it also comes with 20-inch wheels that give the Outlander a muscular stance.
The rear of the Outlander features a hexagonal tailgate design with the look of a chiseled block, and horizontal taillights that extend to both edges create a rear styling that emphasizes width and stability.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Safety Features; autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, and eight airbags.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Consumption
- 2.4L inline PHEV engine consumption; 18.9 KM/L on Hybrid mode.
- 2.5L Petrol Engine consumption; 12.6 km/l on average
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Acceleration
- 2.4L inline PHEV engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10 secs
- 2.5L Petrol Engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.9 secs.
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Tank Capacity: 62 liters
Ground Clearance:
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander has a ground clearance of 8.5 inches
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Mitsubishi Outlander spares, especially body parts are not as easily available in Kenya and are sometimes expensive. Service parts are fairly affordable and easy to find within Nairobi and other major towns.
Stability And Handling
The Outlander has been improved over the years and the 2021 model comes even with a better and more comfortable driving experience. The Outlander shared the same platform as that of its indirect sibling, the Nissan X-Trail. The suspension system of the Outlander is well-tuned to ensure it absorbs pumps and portholes with ease.
The steering wheel is well-weighted and adjustable for reach and rake which gives the driver more confidence to maneuver through tight spaces or through the traffic. The brakes have enough stopping power to bring the Outlander to an instant stop even during emergency braking.
Under the hood, the 2021 Outlander comes with a 2.4 L MIVEC engine for the PHEV model and a 2.5 L GM4W petrol engine. The petrol engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) while the PHEV powertrain uses a single-speed planetary gear system.
The 2.4L PHEV engine has a maximum horsepower of 131 and under normal driving conditions, the engine acts as a generator to charge the battery, while the motors at the front and rear drive the wheels.
The Outlander also comes with a twin Motor 4WD system, which controls the front and rear wheels independently.
Reliability
Mitsubishi is known to build reliable vehicles and the Outlander is no exception. It is regarded to have an average reliability in Kenya however most motorists owning it have reported many years of service without any major issues.
CVT problems, battery drain on PHEV models, and engine stalling are some of the most commonly reported problems with the Outlander.
It is recommended to regularly service your Outlander to mitigate any issues that may arise. We also recommend you read the Owner’s Manual.
Mitsubishi Outlander Competitors: Toyota Harrier, Nissan X-Trail, Toyota Vanguard, Mazda CX5, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Subaru Forester.
What we like about the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander
- Three-row seating
What we don’t
- Cramped third-row seat
- Underpowered engines.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a great choice for families looking for a comfortable 7-seat SUV that balances fuel economy, off-road capability, and performance. It is equipped with the latest safety technology to ensure maximum comfort when traveling long distances. The Mitsubishi Outlander also has a very attractive price tag compared to other SUVs in its class.
If you want to buy the Mitsubishi Outlander simply give us a call at 0722469360 or email us at [email protected]. We have developed a network of trusted dealers in Japan, South Africa, UK, and Dubai who supply us with exceptionally good quality vehicles. Eliminate middlemen and showroom costs by importing the car with us and saving up to KES 500,000. The import process takes 45-60 days and the car is delivered to your doorstep.
Get More With TopCar
If you have a question about this model or any other automotive questions, you can now get answers on our forum.
If you want to sell or trade-in you vehicle, you can list it for free via our seller portal.
If you wish to purchase this model local or abroad, you can do that via our marketplace.
