The Mitsubishi Outlander III 2.0 MIVEC (150 Hp) 2WD, produced between 2012 and 2015, represents the third generation of Mitsubishi’s popular compact crossover SUV. This model was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, where demand for fuel-efficient and versatile family vehicles was high. While not extensively sold in the United States, the Outlander III offered a blend of practicality, comfort, and Mitsubishi’s established four-wheel-drive technology (though this specific variant is front-wheel drive). It competed with vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai ix35, and Kia Sportage, offering a compelling alternative in the crowded crossover segment.
Mitsubishi Outlander III: Overview and Market Positioning
The Outlander III marked a significant evolution in Mitsubishi’s crossover design. It featured a more refined exterior and interior compared to its predecessors, with a focus on improving ride quality and fuel efficiency. The 2.0 MIVEC 2WD variant, specifically, was positioned as an entry-level option, appealing to buyers seeking a cost-effective and economical vehicle for daily commuting and family transportation. The “MIVEC” designation refers to Mitsubishi’s innovative Multi-point Injection Variable valve timing Electronic Control system, designed to optimize engine performance and fuel economy across a wider range of engine speeds.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Outlander III 2.0 MIVEC 2WD is a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 150 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 195 Nm (143.82 lb.-ft.) of torque between 4100 and 4200 rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.6 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.1 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg or 41.5 UK mpg). Urban driving yields 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg), while extra-urban driving achieves 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg).
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Outlander III boasts a contemporary SUV/Crossover body style, characterized by its sleek lines and relatively compact dimensions. It’s a five-door vehicle with seating for five passengers. The exterior design incorporates Mitsubishi’s signature styling cues, including a prominent front grille and sculpted headlights. Inside, the Outlander III offers a comfortable and functional cabin. The interior materials are of reasonable quality for its class, and the layout is user-friendly. Key features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety, ventilated front disc brakes and rear discs, and a McPherson strut front suspension paired with an independent multi-link rear suspension for a comfortable ride. Trunk space is versatile, ranging from a minimum of 145 liters (5.12 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to a maximum of 986 liters (34.82 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4665 mm (183.66 in.) in length, 1800 mm (70.87 in.) in width, and 1680 mm (66.14 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2670 mm (105.12 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Outlander |
| Generation | Outlander III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 MIVEC (150 Hp) 2WD |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 4100-4200 rpm (143.82 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4J11 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 145 l (5.12 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 986 l (34.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4665 mm (183.66 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front Wheel Drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Mitsubishi Outlander III 2.0 MIVEC 2WD offered a practical and economical option in the compact crossover segment. Its blend of fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and versatile interior made it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a reliable and affordable vehicle.
