2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander promises to deliver versatility, performance and style.
Overview of Changes for the 2012 model
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander has been enhanced to include an optional auto-dimming rearview mirror and a standard "Eco" indicator drive lamp. The 2012 Outlander's rearview camera system has been changed to one that is displayed in the rearview mirror, and the lineup of trims has been lowered from four to three.
Introducing the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander proves that sportiness doesn’t have to compromise practicality and comfort. The Outlander is among the roomiest in its class when it comes to cargo capacity and it offers the choice of all-wheel drive for those who frequently find themselves having to pummel through rain or snow on their way to work, the store, the big game, etc. The Outlanders ride quality is smooth and enjoyable, and it leaves no leaf left unturned when it comes to its standard and available features. The Outlander offers features that range from a rear-seat DVD player to a voice-activated navigation system with a 40GB music server.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Available Options
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is available in three different trim levels: ES, SE and GT. Now let’s take a look at each one:
ES: The entry-level “standard” model known as the ES is the basic model of the Outlander. The ES proves that standard models can have fun too, coming equipped with a four-cylinder engine as well as 16-inch steel wheels, roof rails, air-conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, full power accessories, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, cloth upholstery, reclining rear seats and a six-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary audio input jack.
SE: The SE model adds 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, turn-signal mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, upgraded gauges and upholstery, a six-disc CD changer, sliding second-row seats, third-row seats and steering-column-mounted paddle shifters.
SE models are also eligible for the Premium package. This package adds a sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rearview camera, a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system with satellite radio and the soft-touch interior trim.
GT: If you were as impressed as we were with the ES and SE models, then the GT will have you reaching for your heart pills. The All Outlander GT models are powered by a 3.0-liter V6 and come with all the features previously mentioned plus automatic xenon headlights, automatic wipers, automatic climate control, chrome accents and soft-touch dash and door trim. The AWD GT also includes an active front differential, hill start assist and an advanced AWD mode selector.
GT models also offer the option to equip the Touring Package. It features most of the additions included in the Premium package and adds leather upholstery (front- and second-row seats), heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver seat.
(Note: A hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic and digital-music storage is available as a stand-alone option for all trims. Other optional additions include: rear parking sensors, Mitsubishi's Fuse hands-free link system, a rear entertainment system and remote engine start.)
Powertrains and Performance
The Mitsubishi Outlander ES and SE are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that provide 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the GT model has a 3.0-liter V6 that's good for a whopping 230 hp and 215 lb-ft of torque. Four-cylinder Outlanders come standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the V6-powered GT model uses a traditional six-speed automatic. Both have the option for manual-shift.
The ES model is front-wheel drive only, however all-wheel drive is offered as an option on the SE and GT models of the Outlander. The AWD system offers different driver-selectable modes to improve traction in different road conditions.
The Outlander GT can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds, which is respectable for a V6-equipped crossover SUV in this segment. The EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2WD 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander are 23 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined with the four-cylinder engine, and 19/26/22 mpg with the V6 engine. The AWD four-cylinder gets 22/27/24 mpg, while the AWD V6 gets 19/25/21 mpg.
Special Features and Interior Design
The Outlander's Fuse system allows you to make phone calls and access your iPod via voice commands, and it is relatively intuitive to use. This feature alone will make it easy for drivers to flip between their drive home jams and that important phone call they’ve been waiting on.
SE and GT models come with a third-row seat that will suffice in an emergency, but this seat is too slight and ineffectual for regular use. The draw backs of this third row is that it’s small and cramped and also lacks proper padding, which results in its occupant being able to feel the seat's frame in intimate detail. However, on the plus side, the Outlander has a unique flip-down tailgate that is capable of supporting up to 440 pounds. With the second- and third-row seats folded, the total cargo space of the Outlander measures nearly 73 cubic feet, which is extremely roomy for a small crossover SUV.
Safety
All of the major safety features are standard on the Outlander. These include antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, stability control and full-length side curtain airbags. Whiplash-reducing front head restraints also come standard for all the Outlander models.
Driving Impressions
When it comes to driving dynamics, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is among the most enjoyable out of all the crossovers. Its handling limits are noticeably higher than the average crossover, its steering is nicely weighted and its suspension is designed to deliver sportiness without sacrificing comfort. As an added bonus, the all-wheel-drive system ably keeps the car planted on loose road surfaces like sand and snow.
Come into Jerry’s Mitsubishi at 1906 East Joppa Road Baltimore, MD 21234 and test drive the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander now!
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