Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has released details and a first photo of its third generation Outlander (Airtrek in Japan) due for launch at the Geneva show next month.
Peugeot and Citroen-badged variations for PSA – some built in the two automakers’ joint venture plant in Kaluga, Russia – should also be announced soon.
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MMC claims to have invented the ‘crossover’ and said the new version is meant “to better comply with the times – a strategic and innovative premium vehicle of substance developed around a versatile global platform”.
An EV-based plug-in hybrid version will go on sale in Europe in 2013.
For now, the emphasis is on low environmental impact (with target emissions below 130g/km minimum depending on models and markets), advanced safety (with forward collision mitigation system, lane departure warning and active cruise control now on offer).
Other changes include available dual zone air conditioner, power tailgate, full third row seating, flat floor cargo area, tilt and telescope steering column and super-HiD ‘wide vision’ xenon headlamps.
The latest Outlander is similar in size to the outgoing model.
Here in Europe, the new Outlander will be introduced – in 2WD and 4WD – with two-litre petrol or 2.2-litre diesel engines. Some markets will also get models with stop-start and/or a new six-speed automatic gearbox.
An ‘eco-friendly driving system’ notifies the driver when she/he is driving at maximum efficiency.
The model line will be sold first in Russia this summer, prior to European (late summer), Japanese, Oceania, Chinese and North American launches.
MMC said the EV-based plug-in hybrid powertrain – out in 2013 – is based on its own EV technology while also making the best use of the automaker’s extensive four-wheel-drive expertise. The system will permit a range and very low CO2 emissions similar to that of the Concept PX-MiEV II (over 800km/500 miles and a sub-50g/km target).
