All-New 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Previewed Ahead of Geneva

Mitsubishi's new global model was teased a few weeks ago, and it seems that the mysterious vehicle was the all-new 2013 Outlander crossover that's set to officially debut at the Geneva Show in March. Mitsubishi's updated design language is to be taken forward on all of the brand's products, and the Outlander will be the first global model launched in Europe. The current model will offer far better fuel economy than the outgoing model as a result of revised versions of the engines.

A 2.0-liter MIVEC gasoline and 2.2-liter MIVEC diesel engine will be followed by a plug-in hybrid boasting CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km, a fuel economy greater than 100mpg, and performance comparable with a 3.0-liter V6. Front- and four-wheel-drive will be offered as will stop/start, a new six-speed automatic gearbox and new eco driving mode. Visually, the production Outlander differs little from the PX-MiEV II concept car shown at the Tokyo Motor Show. It features a slightly softened front end, circular fog lights, a revised front grille and a different lower front bumper.

More conventional mirrors replace the concept's svelte offerings, but there's nothing to say about the rear as only a front end shot has been released. The interior is claimed to be similar to the current model. The seven-seat interior will boast a raft of padded surfaces and a soft-touch finish, a glossy black instrument panel, switches decorated with silver accents, a new dashboard for 'better driver concentration' and a new multi-function steering wheel. A raft of new features include some advanced safety technology such as a 'Forward Collision Mitigation System.'

This monitors the road and automatically applies the brakes if an object is detected. A lane departure warning system and active cruise control have also been adopted as has a new adjustable steering column, 'wide vision' xenon headlamps, dual-zone a/c, a flat cargo area and a power-operated tailgate will help with loading and unloading. European sales are scheduled to start this summer with sales in other markets, including the US, to start before year end.