Tow Test: 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander

Generally when CW tests a particular vehicle that has been around for a while it's because it has new or improved features that further enhance its appeal. Often these include a bigger and more powerful engine. In the case of the 2005 ZF model Mitsubishi Outlander the engine has the same capacity but the vehicle has been transformed.

The Outlander first appeared in Japan in 2001 and was released on the Australian market in March 2003. Since then it has been well accepted, with a large part due to its distinctive styling, comprehensive equipment levels, flexible interior and good onroad manners. If there was a criticism, it was that the Outlander seemed somewhat underpowered, particularly when compared to its competitors.

Mitsubishi claims that the Outlander has received a 'heart transplant' with 20 per cent more power provided by the new 2.4 litre engine with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve lift and timing Electronic Control). The MIVEC system regulates engine operation to match different driving conditions.

For the number crunchers, the ZF Outlander engine produces 120kW of power (up from 100kW), and 220Nm of torque at 4000rpm. Ninety five per cent of this torque, or pulling power, is available at 2500rpm, which is good news when towing.

However, it is not only the increase in power that sets the 2005 model apart from the earlier Outlander. There are design changes inside and out. All models have European-inspired frontal treatment, projector-style headlamps, front and rear bumper changes, bee-sting-style radio antenna, rear spoiler with high mounted stop lamp and new rear tailgate with larger rear window.

The entry LS model gets ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), rear disc brakes, roof rails and revised tail lamps. On the inside there are several design changes that include the power window switch panel, instrument meter cluster, map pocket on the driver's side seatback and remote central locking device as part of the key fob.

On the upmarket XLS there are front and rear fender flares, privacy glass on the rear doors, rear quarter and tailgate glass, chrome scuff plates and new seat fabrics, plus an impressive list of standard features that include dual airbags, side airbags (optional on the LS), air-conditioning, cruise control and six-speaker radio CD player.

Other improvements consist of increased alternator capacity, larger-capacity radiator and a more powerful fan motor. An electric slide/tilt sunroof is an option on the XLS.

For those looking for something a little more sporty, there is also a VR-X version. This has sporty suspension tuning, 17in alloy wheels, monotone exterior paint treatment, unique leather and suede seat trim, sports profile front seats and for music lovers, a Fujitsu 10 Eclipse premium audio system.

The transmission is four-speed automatic with Sports Mode manual sequential shifting and Mitsubishi's innovative INVECS II Smart Logic. Power is transferred to the wheels through a full-time 4WD system, hence the term All Wheel Drive, which uses a Viscous Coupling Unit to provide drive smoothly to all wheels. This ensures that most of the power goes to the wheels that have most of the traction.

With independent coil-sprung suspension at each corner, the Outlander rides and handles like a passenger car. Fast speeds around tight bends may induce slightly more body roll than a lower sedan, but after a few days in the AWD Outlander the car feels as precise, smooth and stable as most others wagons on the road.

Interior space is excellent, with four to five adults accommodated in comfort on a long trip. Storage is more than adequate and includes several cup holders - they seem mandatory these days. Back seat has a 60:40 split for versatility. If extra space is needed the rear seat can be folded forward to offer a flat floor. Recline the back of the front passenger seat and it is possible to carry DIY items up to 2.4 metres in length.

Among the myriad of makes and models on the market today, the Mitsubishi Overlander falls in the compact SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) segment. Surveys have indicated that owners of compact SUVs go offroad on a limited basis and hardly tow anything. The heaviest load is likely to be a two-wheel trailer or a small caravan. However, the use of the vehicle as holiday transport or for recreational purposes is high. It seems that people buy SUVs for the extra flexibility they offer.

With a towing capacity of 1200kg you wouldn't really expect anyone to be towing large trailers with the Outlander. And that's a pity, as it is probably good for 1500kg. This would then allow it to tow a unit such as a Windsor Rapid, which can sleep the same number of people that the Outlander can seat. Of course, it is possible to match it with one of the many camper trailers currently available, but the buyer profile suggests that a pop-top may well have more appeal.

We chose a Cavalier camper trailer to tow behind the Outlander. With a Tare or empty weight of just under 500kg the Cavalier is not likely to unduly tax the tow vehicle. Even with water, food, camping gear and a few extras on board this sturdy camper tows like a dream. Unless going up a hill, we had to keep reminding ourselves that the Cavalier was behind as it was about the same width as the Outlander and only just visible through the inside rear view mirror.

The Mitsubishi Outlander and Cavalier performed as ideal partners, with which to discover places near or far. The Cavalier can certainly go wherever the Outlander can venture while at the same time offering comfortable accommodation when onsite. Alternatively the Cavalier can be left set up at the campsite while the Outlander handles a solo mission in Australia's outback. And with good ground clearance as well as approach, departure and ramp angles, the Cavalier will surprise many with its offroad capabilities.

Around the city and suburbs, taking into account a lot of stop-start traffic, the fuel consumption was about 12L/100km. This was about the same as when towing the camper over varieties of terrain. On the open road driving the Outlander alone lowered consumption to about 10L/100km. Official ADR81/01 figures used for comparisons are 10.8L/100km. All indications are that the Outlander is capable of being quite frugal when driven sensibly.

In the compact SUV class there are many makes and models to choose from. And none is a bad vehicle. When deciding on one's preference it comes down to meeting the perceived day-to-day requirements.

As far as we could determine, a 2005 model Mitsubishi Outlander is the sort of vehicle that would meet many people's needs. For more details and your nearest dealer check out the website, www.mitsubishi-motors.com.au

Mitsubishi 2005 Outlander
Engine: 2.4 litre MIVEC four-cylinder engine
Max. power: 120kW@57500rpm
Max. torque: 220Nm@4000rpm
Transmission: INVECS II Smart Logic four-speed automatic with Sports Mode
Length: 4550mm
Width: 1750mm
Height: 1680mm
Wheelbase: 2625mm
Ground clearance: 205mm
Kerb mass: 1565-1580kg (depending on model)
Max. Gross Vehicle Mass: 2000kg
Gross Combination Mass: 3200kg
Turning circle: 11.4m
Suspension: independent coil front and rear
Brakes: front 15in ventilated disc, rear solid discs with four-sensor ABS and EBD
Tyres: 215/60R16 95H (215/55R17 94V on VRX)
Fuel tank capacity: 60L
Towing capacity: 1200kg (max towbar download 120kg)