Used Mitsubishi Outlander review: 2003-2012

When launched at the start of 2003 the Mitsubishi Outlander replaced the Mitsubishi iO, a 4WD that had not sold particularly well. Mitsubishi had been in the vanguard of the affordable recreational 4WD market since the 1980s, but the little iO was aimed at the semi-serious 4WD buyer and was relatively expensive.

Mitsubishi’s move into the crossover segment with the Outlander changed that way of thinking and it soon began to gather a lot of supporters. It continues to sell well to this day and an all-new model seems sure to further expand interest when it arrives down under in a few months time.

We anticipate a surge of trade-ins of Outlanders to buy the new model and this could lead to some excellent deals for used buyers as dealers shift the trades. No promises, though...Styling has long been a much talked about feature of the Mitsubishi Outlander.

The initial model had a prominent nose that some liked and others hated. The standout nose was removed in 2006, replaced by a smoother shape with the introduction of a slightly larger new model. The move to the Mitsubishi ‘jetfighter’ front grille in 2009 gained a lot more praise for its radical shape. Interestingly, the upcoming new model has again gone for a more conservative design.

Though not really aimed at off-road driving, the 4WD system is reasonably sophisticated for its type and the Outlander can competently cope with rough tracks, beaches and corrugated dirt when driven correctly. On-road the Mitsubishi Outlander is capable and generally quiet and comfortable to ride in. Some owners complain about the amount of tyre noise on coarse-chip roads, others say they don’t really notice it.

Inside, there’s space for two adults and three children with good legroom and head space. Three adults can be carried in the back seat, but may find themselves on the squeezy side. The optional third-row seat is strictly for tiny kids and even then isn’t particularly comfortable. It steals most of the luggage area, but that’s hardly unusual in this class of compact vehicle. Otherwise boot space is good and the Outlander is easy to load, even more so from the mid 2004 facelift.

The 2004 reworking was interesting in that a lot of the work was done by the engineering team at Mitsubishi Australia for global use. The biggest changes were at the rear, with a wider tailgate and styling mods that gave it more presence in the appearance stakes. Also for 2004, Mitsubishi’s variable valve timing was added to the engine. Capacity of the single-cam, four-cylinder powerplant remains at the 2.4 litres, but stronger torque with a good spread made it enjoyable to drive.

Disc brakes, with ABS and EBD were fitted to all four wheels to cope with the added engine output when the four-cylinder engine was upgraded. Previously some had criticised the Outlander for having drum brakes at the rear. The optional 3.0-litre V6 engine, though relatively expensive, is the powerplant of choice amongst those who like to drive. It can be quite thirsty, particularly when worked hard.

Transmissions are manual and automatic with the added efficiency of continuously variable transmission being used in the latter from the 2006 model. Some don’t like the sound of a CVT but once you become accustomed to it the audio differences soon become unnoticed. Mitsubishi Australia is a well-established player in the local Australian scene having been here for over forty years. Though the company no longer builds vehicles locally it has a large, well-organised dealer network that’s widespread.

Due to the company’s success in the 4WD market with the Pajero and Challenger there are more dealers in country areas than is usual with crossover vehicles that compete with the Outlander. We hear no real complaints about spare part pricing or availability. A good amateur mechanic can do a fair bit of their own work due to the generous under bonnet and under-car accessibility. Safety related items should only be touched by professionals.

Insurance rates seem to vary more than normal among the major companies so it’s worth shopping around for the best deal. As always, make sure you are doing accurate comparisons when looking at the various policy features.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Outlander is well-built and generally reliable but, as always, recommend a professional inspection after you've done initial checks to the best of your technical knowledge. Though it’s nominally a 4WD few Outlanders are taken off road so if you see any signs of body or under body damage - check the lower corners of the bumpers and the door sills - it’s probably best to look for another one.

Engines are strong units in the Mitsubishi manner. A powerplant that’s reluctant to start when cold, or which hesitates at any time is a cause for concern. Check the front of a four-cylinder engine for water stains indicating possible water pump troubles. We have heard of a few problems in continuously variable transmissions. During your test drive it should be quiet and smooth. If unsure, have a Mitsubishi mechanic check it out.

Manual gearboxes should be light and smooth in operation. When they eventually wear out, the change down from third to second is usually the first to give trouble. Listen for noises and feel for a reluctance to go into gear. Look over the interior for signs of rough use, particularly in the back seats if kids have run amok.

CAR BUYING TIP

Crossover SUVs that go seriously off road are rare and it’s probably best to pass them up - unless the price is very favourable.