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Mitsubishi has unveiled its oddly named Engelberg Tourer Concept. Named for a Swiss ski resort known for its rugged terrain, the Engelberg Tourer is an agressive and sporty looking crossover that could preview the look of the next generation Mitsubishi Outlander. (Because the first thing you think of when you hear about a Swiss ski resort is a Japanese SUV - DD) The Engelberg is yet another PHEV Crossover, in this case using an improved version of the twin-motor PHEV system used in the Outlander PHEV. The engine is a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder designed specifically for hybrid use. The system works in a series hybrid mode where the engine acts as a generator to power the front and rear electric motors and is able to propel the SUV just over 40 miles in EV mode on the European test cycle. With a full battery and fuel tank, the Engelberg can cruise over 430 miles, again on the European test cycle. Inside, Mitsubishi has fitted the Engelberg with a minimalist yet luxury looking white and black interior. The navigation system can take into account the destination, weather, temperature, road conditions, and traffic to modify the drive mode and torque split to optimize battery and fuel usage. Mitsubishi will also be selling a home battery and charging system that allows the Engelberg to dynamically charge or discharge power from the user's home. Related: Quick First Drive: 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Quick First Drive: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross View full article

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was originally supposed to arrive in the U.S. a few years back. But the launch would be pushed back as the model would prove to be quite popular in Europe, causing Mitsubishi to reallocate supplies. Now, Mitsubishi has finally started selling the Outlander PHEV in the U.S. Was it worth the wait? Much like the Eclipse Cross I posted a couple of weeks back, this first drive of the Outlander PHEV was quite brief. I only had about 15 to 20 miles of driving under my belt, while the rest saw me sitting in the passenger seat. Hopefully, in the near future, I’ll be able to spend some more time to give an overall impression. The Outlander PHEV wants everyone to know that it is a plug-in hybrid vehicle with PHEV decals on the rear doors and badges on the front fenders. Most people will find it to be a bit much. Otherwise, I like the Outlander’s shape with a boxy profile and slightly bold front end. The interior design is a bit plain, but most controls are within easy reach. The top-line GT I drove featured leather surfaces and plenty of soft-touch materials. I would have liked to see less piano black plastic used throughout as it becomes a fingerprint magnet. One issue with the Outlander PHEV’s interior is the placement of the Park button. Due to the location of the gear selector, it isn’t easy to find the button. My drive partner spent a few moments wondering where the button was before I pointed it out. Not the most user-friendly setup. Unlike the standard Outlander which offers three-rows of seating, the PHEV makes do with two. This is due to the placement of the battery pack in the back. I’m ok with this sacrifice as the third-row in the regular Outlander should only be used for emergencies due to the limited amount of space and uncomfortable seats. Powering the Outlander PHEV are two 80 horsepower electric motors. The one on the front axle produces 101 pound-feet and the one on the rear makes 144 pound-feet. A 2.0L DOHC four-cylinder with 117 horsepower and 137 lb-ft acts as the generator. There are three different driving modes on the Outlander PHEV: EV Mode, Series Hybrid mode (gas engine provides energy for electric motors for extra power and charges the battery), and Parallel Hybrid mode (gas engine power the wheels and electric motors). The plug-in hybrid system is very responsive in EV mode thanks to the instantaneous torque available from the two electric motors. In the Series Hybrid mode, the gas engine, for the most part, is muted and doesn’t intrude. Only during hard acceleration does the engine begin to make some racket. Transitions between the electric to the hybrid powertrain is very seamless. One disappointment is the range. Mitsubishi says the Outlander PHEV can travel up to 22 miles on a full charge. Chrysler’s bigger Pacifica Hybrid can go 32 miles on a full charge. A lot of this comes down to the Pacifica using a larger battery pack. Mitsubishi has introduced an updated Outlander PHEV for Japan and Europe that introduces larger battery pack and engine. The overall electric range has increased to 28 miles on the WLTP testing cycle. We’re wondering when this updated powertrain will arrive in the U.S. (2020?) Mitsubishi offers three different charging options for the Outlander PHEV - 120V, 240V, and a DC fast-charging through a CHAdeMO port. Charging times are eight hours with the 120V charger, 3.5 hours on the 240V, and 25 minutes for an 80 percent charge on the DC fast-charger. Six-levels of regenerative braking from B0 to B5 can be selected through a pair of paddles behind the wheel. I left the vehicle in B3 and found it to be a nice balance of regeneration without slowing the vehicle down too much. Handling is about what you might expect with a crossover. There is a fair amount of body roll when cornering and the steering feels somewhat light. Ride quality is quite nice as most bumps and imperfections are ironed out. The 2018 Outlander PHEV begins at $34,595 for the SEL S-AWC and $40,295 for the GT S-AWC. There is a tax credit available for the model, but be aware that only comes into play when you do your taxes. You cannot use it to help drop the price of the Outlander PHEV. Disclaimer: Mitsubishi provided breakfast, a quick snack, and the Outlander PHEV for this first drive event. Year: 2018 Make: Mitsubishi Model: Outlander PHEV Engine: 2.0L MIVEC DOHC, 16-valve Inline-Four (Gas Generator); Twin AC synchronous permanent magnetic motors Driveline: Single-Speed Transmission, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 117 @ 4,500 (Gas); 80 @ 0 (Electric Motors) Torque @ RPM: 137 @ 4,500 (Gas); 101 @ 0 (Front Electric Motor); 144 @ 0 (Rear Electric Motor) Fuel Economy: Gas+Electric Combined/Combined - 74/25 Curb Weight: 4,178 lbs Location of Manufacture: Okazaki, Aichi, Japan Base Price: $34,595 (SEL S-AWC), $40,295 (GT S-AWC) View full article

Mitsubishi's strong CUV lineup lead the way in February Outlander Sport posts its best February sales ever Outlander sales up a strong 81 percent Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today reported February 2016 sales of 7,870, an increase of 4.5 percent over February of 2015. Leading the way for the month was Mitsubishi's duo of CUVs, the Outlander Sport and Outlander, with combined sales of 4,712, up 32 percent. For the calendar year, Mitsubishi sales are 14,134. In a crowded field of competitors in the compact CUV segment, Outlander sales continue to impress with strong double-digit increases. Sales for the popular CUV were 2,121, which accounted for an impressive 81 percent increase over the same period in 2015. Outlander had its best February since 2007. Not to be outdone, Outlander Sport had its best February ever with sales of 2,591, an increase of eight percent over February 2015. "We've said it before and we are proving it to be true, the future of the Mitsubishi Motors brand lies in its CUVs," said Don Swearingen, executive vice president, MMNA. "Outlander Sport continues to be our sales leader and the new Outlander is proving to be quite popular with customers seeking high value and reliability in a very competitive segment." February YTD 2016 2015 2016 2015 i‐MiEV 5 2 7 5 Mirage 1156 1863 2119 3568 Lancer 1997 2099 3520 3614 Outlander Sport 2591 2394 4824 4661 Outlander 2121 1175 3664 2178 Total 7870 7533 14134 14026

Mitsubishi is putting on a bold face with the introduction of the 2016 Outlander at the New York Auto Show. The Outlander boast over 100 changes with the hope of improving where it stands in the marketplace. The most noticeable change is the front end as it adds a black and chrome grille, along with LED position lights. New 18-inch wheels, rear bumper, and LED taillights finish off the exterior. Inside, Mitsubishi changed out the steering wheel, added new seating surfaces, display audio system and a new auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink for the GT model. Power will come from a 2.4L four-cylinder with 166 horsepower for most of the lineup. A 3.0L V6 with 215 horsepower is standard on the GT model. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the automaker's Super All Wheel Control - S-AWC - is optional. Mechanical changes include a redesigned suspension, revised electric power steering system, and changes to the CVT. Source: Mitsubishi Press Release is on Page 2 MITSUBISHI MOTORS NEW 2016 OUTLANDER MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT THE 2015 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW The 2016 Outlander showcases Mitsubishi's new design language for the first time on a production vehicle The new Outlander features over 100 engineering and design improvements The 2016 Outlander marks a new era for the Mitsubishi brand relating to style, refinement and overall driving experience Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today unveiled the new 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander seven-passenger crossover at the 2015 New York International Auto Show. The 2016 Outlander is the first Mitsubishi production vehicle to showcase the brand's new design language. The 2016 Outlander is not just a cosmetic "refreshing," however, and features an unprecedented number of important engineering and design improvements that increase the level of refinement and overall driving experience. The 2016 Outlander is a segment-leading vehicle that will appeal to buyers wanting value, quality and safety. "The 2016 Outlander has an eye-catching new design aesthetic inside and out, and with its long list of engineering upgrades, the new Outlander literally looks, drives and feels like an entirely new vehicle, making it an even more compelling value than before," said MMNA Executive Vice President, Don Swearingen. "Mitsubishi's outstanding sales momentum is carrying into the new-year and with the arrival of the 2016 Outlander crossover we are well positioned to sustain our growth." The 2016 Outlander features Mitsubishi's new front design concept, "Dynamic Shield." This feature is inherited from the bumper side protection seen on generations of the Montero, providing unique protection for both the people and car. Numerous design and engineering improvements have been made to the chassis of the 2016 Outlander, including increased body and suspension structural rigidity, redesigned suspension and Electric Power Steering, noise-isolating windshield and rear door glass, more sound insulation throughout the vehicle, new dynamic front suspension and rear differential dampers, improved weather stripping and engine compartment trim (all models). Additionally, the new generation continuously-variable transmission offers improved acceleration, performance, shift feel and torque delivery (all CVT-equipped models). The exterior design features of the 2016 Outlander include a redesigned front fascia, front fenders, halogen headlights, LED position lights, lower door sections, 18-in. alloy wheels, rear fascia and LED taillights (all models); and power-folding side mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer and LED headlights (GT model). The reconfigured interior includes a redesigned steering wheel, seating surfaces, accent trim, rear folding seat, headliner, display audio system (all models) and auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink® (GT model). Mitsubishi's advanced safety systems including Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) are now available for the SEL and GT Models. View full article

Despite Mitsubishi selling the current Outlander crossover for almost a year, the company has decided that it was time to do a refresh on it. Next week at the 2015 New York Auto Show, the company will show off the Outlander's new face. From the teaser shots released by Mitsubishi, the 2016 Outlander looks to be taking some ideas from the Outlander PHEV Concept-S plug-in hybrid shown in Paris last year. There is a trapezoidal grille outline with two chrome bars sitting on the top and a set of accents running from the headlights to the fog lights. Around back, there appears to be some new bulges and the taillights arranged underneath the rear windshield. Mitsubishi is keeping quiet on any other details, only saying that it "features over 100 engineering and design improvements". We'll have more details and pictures when the Outlander debuts on April 2nd. Source: Mitsubishi You may also like: Mitsubishi and Nissan Midsize Project Hits An Impasse Mitsubishi Tells Its Dealers New Products Are On The Way Mitsubishi On the Rebound In the U.S., Considers Bringing Over Some New Products Review: 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander GT S-AWC Press Release is on Page 2 MITSUBISHI MOTORS TO CONDUCT WORLD PREMIERE OF 2016 OUTLANDER AT THE NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is pleased to announce that it will make the world premiere of the 2016 Outlander during its press conference at the 2015 New York International Auto Show in the North Hall (booth 260) on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at 11:30a.m. ET. The 2016 Outlander will be the first Mitsubishi vehicle to debut the brand's new design language. The 2016 Outlander is a refined crossover utility vehicle that features over 100 engineering and design improvements including a new, powerful and dynamic appearance, enhanced road performance as the result of improvements to noise levels, ride, handling and throttle response, and a more eloquent yet functional interior space. The new 2016 Outlander demonstrates the brand's renewed emphasis on style, refinement and overall driving experience. For those who are unable to join Mitsubishi Motors in New York, the press conference will be internationally broadcast live. For details about the webcast please check media.mitsubishicars.com. Full 2016 Outlander details will be released at 11:30a.m. ET on April 2, 2015. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 28, 2012 Earlier this month, Mitsubishi President Osamu Masuko said this, "We have no intention whatsoever of withdrawing from the U.S. market. The U.S. market is a very important market." This was in response to Suzuki vehicles leaving the U.S. Masuko said that despite decline the brand is currently experiencing, he expects sales to creep back up with the introduction of new products. Today at the L.A. auto show, we got our first peek at one of the new products in the form of the 2014 Outlander. Compared to the outgoing Outlander, the new 2014 is much more sleeker. There is a redesigned front end, wraparound headlamps, raised belt line, and a more contoured body. Mitsubishi says the new design is more aerodynamic than the old model, though Mitsubishi didn't mention any fuel economy improvements. Inside, Mitsubishi has made some big changes including a revised control layout, and using more premium materials including a soft-touch instrument panel, woodgrain trim and glossy black "center waterfall" design. All Outlanders will come with seven seats. Powertrains for the new Outlander are, 2.4L four-cylinder producing 166 HP and 162 lb-ft, CVT 3.0L MIVEC V6 producing 224 HP and 215 lb-ft of torque, Six-Speed Auto Front-wheel drive is standard on the base ES and SE models. Mitsubishi's S-AWC all-wheel drive system is optional on the SE and standard on the GT. Also new to the Outlander are lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and forward-collision mitigation. The option list will feature a Rockford Fosgate stereo, a power tailgate activated from the driver's seat or by the key fob, and the next generation of Mitsubishi’s navigation system. Mitsubishi hasn't announced a timeframe when the new Outlander will be arriving at your local Mitsubishi dealer. William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 The all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander compact crossover is expected to be one of the most fuel-efficient CUVs with standard 7-passenger seating in the North American marketplace (pending EPA fuel mileage rating). What’s more, the mid-grade Outlander SE model will now be available with Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system – a welcome feature previously reserved exclusively for the top-flight Outlander GT model. Joining its slightly smaller brethren, the made-in-America redesigned 5-passenger 2013 Outlander Sport, as part of Mitsubishi’s revised model lineup, the all-new 2014 Outlander elevates the level of luxury, refinement and fuel economy that consumers have come to expect from the affordably-priced crossover segment. With its smooth surfaces and crisp, modern lines, the new exterior design of the 2014 Outlander lends the Japanese automobile manufacturer’s latest head-turning creation an air of elevated status and sophistication more akin to crossover vehicles residing within in a much loftier price point. Perhaps the most prominent new feature of the exterior sheetmetal is the new streamlined front fascia, accentuated by a more urbane design that emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency as much as eye-catching appeal – an engineering necessity in these days of high fuel prices and increased fuel economy mandates. Greatly aiding fuel efficiency of this captivating crossover is a wind-cheating advanced aerodynamic exterior design that is 7% more aerodynamically-efficient as well as a lightweight body that is approximately 200 pounds lighter than that of the car it replaces. Other environmentally-friendly features include a new HVAC interior heating/cooling system that minimize energy consumption and a lighter version of the available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system. The potent yet smooth-operating 2.4-liter 4-cylinder powerplant receives the latest edition of the company’s exceptionally engineered MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system with continuously-variable valve lift timing technology for optimal fuel efficiency and power production with reduced harmful emissions (all 2014 Outlander models meet LEV II - ULEV emission standards). This 4-cylinder engine produces 166 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4200 rpm. This workhorse 4-cylinder engine is coupled to an advanced continuously-variable transmission (CVT) that mimics unique ratio patterns for improved “shift” feel as well as enhanced fuel economy. An all-new feature added to the new Outlander’s CVT is Acceleration Control that provides better throttle response at the early stage of acceleration and postpones upshifts until later in the rev range. What’s more, a new driver-activated ECO-mode setting that is standard on all 2014 Outlander models helps to further reduce fuel consumption by slightly reducing engine power on initial acceleration as well as the airflow volume of the air conditioning. Furthermore, when Outlander models equipped with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) are driven with 4WD engaged, the driver-activated ECO-mode will allow the vehicle to function as a 2WD vehicle until sensors instantaneously reactivate 4WD when deemed necessary. The premium 2014 Outlander GT model receives a power upgrade in the form of a 24-valve 3.0-liter V-6 MIVEC engine that produces a full 224 horsepower at 6250 rpm and a plentiful 215 lb.-ft. of torque at 3750 rpm. This spirited engine utilizes low viscosity engine oil (0W-20) and iridium spark plugs to help maximize fuel efficiency. A refined 6-speed automatic transmission is a paragon of efficiency, directing power to the driven wheels with improved torque converter performance and a new final drive ratio contributes to improved fuel mileage. Mitsubishi designers and engineers put a special emphasis in endowing their stylish all-new crossover with numerous cutting-edge advanced safety technologies (available on SE and GT models). Among these are: Adaptive Cruise Control - a radar-based sensor in the vehicle’s front grille constantly measures distance between the Outlander and the vehicle in front of it, allowing the driver to select three different following distance settings. Forward Collision Mitigation - a radar-based system that detects obstructions in front of the Outlander and automatically warns and then applies the brakes to help minimize a collision with the vehicle in front. Lane Departure Warning - a camera-based system that helps to monitor lane position of the Outlander and warn the driver via visual and audio warnings should they begin to veer into the next lane. Standard safety features include a 7 airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including side curtain airbags, driver’s knee airbag, and a completely redesigned new airbag for the driver’s seat; a new Brake Pedal Recession Protection Structure to reduce driver leg injury in the event of a high-speed frontal impact; enhanced pedestrian protection with the redesigned hood and front fenders; Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL); Hill Start Assist (HSA); anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); and an all-new ultra-rigid chassis that benefits from the most advanced form of Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) impact-absorbing safety cell technology ever. Along with these new class-leading safety technologies, particular attention has been paid within the all-new Outlander’s interior to make it not only an exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin but also one that makes use of the highest grade materials available. Consumers who appreciate the finer things will immediately notice the all-new premium surfaces consisting of a soft-touch instrument panel, lovely wood grain appearance trim (GT model) and attractive high-gloss black center console panel. Additionally, all seven seating positions have been completely reconfigured for improved comfort/ergonomics as well as for ease of operation of the fold-flat seats (2nd and 3rd row seating sections) allowing up to 128.6 cubic feet of passenger room. Other impressive upscale appointments included as standard equipment are a high-resolution meter cluster; air conditioning with micron filter; a dynamic-sounding 6 speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system; privacy glass, cruise control; tilt and telescopic steering column and a newly designed steering wheel. The mid-level Outlander SE builds on the base ES model’s already expansive standard equipment package with a 6-inch touch-screen display audio system; rearview camera system; HD radio; fog lamps; 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control; heated front seats; FAST key passive entry system with push-button engine ignition on/off switch; and Mitsubishi’s FUSE Handsfree Link system™ with USB that allows voice activation of iPod™ and cell phone via simple voice commands. Among the higher grade Outlander GT standard features are the potent yet fuel-efficient 3.0-liter V-6 MIVEC engine/6-speed automatic transmission combination with steering wheel mounted paddle shifter; Mitsubishi’s proven Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system with Active Front Differential (AFD); Super wide-beam high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights; wood grain appearance trim; and the addition of SiriusXM™ satellite radio to the already excellent 6 speaker audio system. Available luxury features (SE and GT models) include a state-of-the-art 9 speaker 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate® sound system with DTS Neural Surround, PremiDIA® Surround, HD Radio and Dolby Volume; an intuitive next-generation High-Definition navigation system with 3D mapping, expanded Point of Interest (POI) information and road speed limit display; a convenient remote power tailgate that can be activated from the driver’s seat or by the FAST-key entry remote fob; and leather seating surfaces. The all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is available (SE and GT models) with the company’s outstanding Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system that has been optimized for the vehicle’s new Brake Control and Electric Power Steering, allowing for even better vehicle performance and stability. Derived from similar computer management system hardware found in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, the Outlander’s S-AWC system includes sensors that monitor vital vehicle dynamics including engine torque, gear ratio, steering angle, longitudinal and lateral acceleration as well as yaw rate to deliver an exceptional degree of vehicle stability, traction and safety in both adverse and every day driving conditions. Available in 6 striking colors – Cool Silver Metallic, Cosmic Blue Mica, Mercury Gray Metallic, Copper Metallic, Diamond White Pearl or Labrador Black Mica – the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is the perfect vehicle for environmentally-conscious, active individuals or families requiring a comfortable, well-equipped sophisticated crossover that provides the latest in advanced safety technologies, ecology and comfort. Key Specifications Wheelbase: 105.1 in. Length: 183.3 in. Height: 66.1 in. Width: 70.9 in. Engine: 2.4-liter aluminum SOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine (ES or SE model) Horsepower: 166 @ 6000 rpm Torque: 162 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm Transmission: Continuously-variable transmission (CVT) Fuel Economy: EPA fuel mileage rating TBD Engine: 3.0-liter aluminum SOHC MIVEC 6-cylinder engine (GT model) Horsepower: 224 @ 6250 rpm Torque: 215 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission (6AT) Fuel Economy: EPA fuel mileage rating TBD Major Standard Features (ES Model) 6 speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 player audio system Reduced-weight body RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) chassis safety cell construction 3rd row fold-flat seating Air conditioning with micron filter Heating ducts for 2nd row passengers Electric assist power steering Anti-theft engine immobilizer Anti-theft alarm system Halogen headlamps Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver's knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags Power windows and door locks Tilt & telescopic steering wheel Remote keyless entry Cruise control Intermittent rear wiper with washer Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL) Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Hill Start Assist (HSA) Speed-sensitive windshield wipers Privacy glass SE adds over ES: Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob FUSE Handsfree Link system™ with USB/iPod™ port 140-Watt Digital HD Radio/CD audio system with MP3 playback capability and 6-inch touch-panel display audio screen High contrast meter with full color MID-display Heated front seats FAST key passive entry system with push button on/off engine switch Rearview camera system Automatic dual-zone climate control 18-inch alloy wheels Fog lamps Available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive with Active Front Differential (AFD) GT adds over SE: 3.0-liter V-6 MIVEC engine 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with Active Front Differential (AFD) Super-wide beam High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights SiriusXM™ satellite radio Rain-sensing windshield wiper system Exterior chrome beltline accent Wood grain appearance trim Outlander Options: Premium Package (SE and GT models) adds: Panoramic glass sunroof; Leather seating surfaces; Power driver’s seat; Remote power tailgate; 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate® premium audio system with DTS Neutral Surround, PremiDIA® Surround and Dolby Volume features with 9 speakers including 10-inch subwoofer (includes wood grain appearance trim and SiriusXM™ satellite radio on SE model) Touring Package (SE and GT models) adds: 7-inch touch panel navigation system with real-time traffic; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system; Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system; Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system. 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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 11, 2012 As the Kia Optima drives off into the horizon, the Cheers & Gears Detroit garage welcomes not one, but two vehicles this week. The first vehicle is the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander GT S-AWC. A bit of mouthful, but let me break it down. Outlander: Mitsubishi's largest crossover on sale, can seat up to seven people GT: Top of the line model: comes with a 3.0L MIVEC V6 producing 230 HP and 215 lb-ft of torque and a six-speed automatic transmission S-AWC: Mitsubishi's advance AWD system which uses an dynamic front differential and Mitsubishi's AWC to provide added safety and performance. First impressions so far are mixed: Outlander's front end is directly related to Lancer Evolution; I like For $33,605 (as tested price), how come there isn't a USB or Aux jack? Only jacks for video. Not sure if the Outlander has Bluetooth or not. Has been prewired.. Ride is a bit firm, but actually kind of fun I'll be updating throughout the week with more thoughts and fuel economy numbers. In the meantime, post your questions and I'll do my best to answer them. As for vehicle number #2, see the next post. Update #1: I've been driving around in the Outlander GT for past couple of days, and I've found some things I like and some I don't. I'll start with the the items I don't like: First, I figured out this Outlander hasn't been fully wired for Bluetooth. It does comes prewired with it, but considering its 2012, don't you think it would be fully wired? Also, I'm finding the ride to a bit too firm. While it does keep the Outlander steady while going through turns or off the beaten path, the Outlander will communicate every bump while in the city or on the highway. The good items about the Outlander: Like the steering on the Outlander, very firm and gives you a very good feel of the road. The six-speed automatic does a very good job of smooth shifts and keeping you in the right gear. Average fuel economy so far is about 24.1 MPG. I'll have another update over the weekend with highway numbers and some more thoughts. Keep those questions coming in the meantime. William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article