Despite it is old by modern automotive standards, the mid-sized Mitsubishi Outlander is a good seller for the brand. The current Outlander arrived for the 2014 model year and the most recent update was for the 2019 version when it received the refreshed styling and improved ride quality. However, the recently spotted prototype suggests that the life cycle of the current version is close to the end and the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander should be the all-new model.
Mitsubishi is still tight-lipped about the next Outlander and there are no many official details. Still, the prototype version suggests that next Outlander should borrow heavily from the Engelberg Tourer concept which we had a chance to see at the Geneva Auto Show. The model is also expected to come larger and with the upgraded interior and tech features. There will again be the conventionally powered version and plug-in hybrid variant but it’s not known yet what specs would be of the new powertrains.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander: Design
Based on what we can conclude from the recent spy photos, the new generation 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander should draw inspiration for the Engelberg Tourer concept. Behind the swirly camouflage, the Outlander prototype seems to hide a more chiseled and larger body. The styling theme is a toned-down version of what we saw on the mentioned concept.
The front section of the model will come with the brand’s newest Dynamic shield grille variation and the contours of the reshaped front bumper can be also detected under the camo. What is also easily detectable is a new split-headlight arrangement with the thin-strip daytime running lights set high on the front fascia while the main headlight units sit lower in the bumper section.
The profile of the model has subtly flared fenders and a strong charter line. The rear side gets also concept-inspired taillights and resculpted tailgate.
The next Outlander seems also bigger than the outgoing model and should come with the improved interior comfort and cargo capacity.
As for the platform, it should use the same design with the next Nissan Rogue as the part of the Mitsubishi-Renault-Nissan Alliance.
Interior, Equipment:
The cabin of the next Outlander should benefit from the increased cargo capacity and seat comfort. The current version provides up to 63.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. With all seats up, the actual Outlander offers 10.3 cubic feet.
The next version will also arrive with the new dash design and upgraded infotainment system. Nissan will likely offer a larger center touchscreen in the upper grades as well as a digital instrument panel.
The base version should come on 18-inch wheels and with dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, mid-row air vents and more. The base trim will also include the most advanced safety features.
The top grades will add leather upholstery, premium sound system, surround vision cameras, heated steering wheel and more.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander: Powertrains
The ride quality of the all-new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander will benefit from the adoption of the new, lightweight platform and redeveloped suspension. There should again be a combustion engine-powered version and electrified plug-in hybrid option.
It’s not confirmed yet what engine Mitsubishi has in mind for the new-generation Outlander but it could be a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit used in the Eclipse Cross. There the turbo-4 unit delivers 153 hp but should make more horsepower under the hood of the new Outlander. The continuously variable transmissions will again be in the equipment list.
As for the plug-in hybrid variant, it should use a similar setup as the above-mentioned concept vehicle. The current Outlander PHEV combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two 60-kW electric motors for the total output of 190 hp. The next version will likely switch to the larger 2.4-liter combustion engine combined with upgraded electric motors and battery pack which should mean higher output.
The new-gen PHEV version should also improve the all-electric range from the current 22 miles. Mitsubishi said that concept can travel 43 miles on the all-electric propulsion.
Release, Price
The redesigned 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander should hit the market in late 2020. The price range should have a slightly higher starting point than the current $25, 000. The base PHEV version should demand about $10, 000 more than the base conventionally powered model.