The Mitsubishi Outlander III, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2015, represents a significant iteration of Mitsubishi’s popular crossover SUV. Positioned within the compact SUV segment, the Outlander III aimed to provide a practical and versatile vehicle for families and individuals seeking a blend of space, efficiency, and all-weather capability. This version, powered by a 2.0-liter MIVEC engine producing 150 horsepower, was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, where compact SUVs with all-wheel drive are highly sought after. While not a major seller in the United States during this generation, the Outlander III offered a compelling alternative to established competitors with its focus on value and practicality.
Mitsubishi Outlander III (2015-2018): A Detailed Overview
The 2015 facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the Outlander III, enhancing its appeal and addressing some criticisms of the earlier models. The vehicle continued to build upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a capable four-wheel-drive system. The 2.0 MIVEC engine, while not exceptionally powerful, provided adequate performance for everyday driving and reasonable fuel economy. The Outlander III’s design philosophy centered around providing a functional and family-oriented vehicle, prioritizing practicality over outright sportiness.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander III is a 2.0-liter MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) four-cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 150 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 195 Nm (143.82 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The MIVEC system optimizes valve timing for improved efficiency and performance across the engine’s operating range. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and Mitsubishi’s S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 11.4 seconds. The Outlander III achieves a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) combined, with 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) in urban conditions and 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 149 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Outlander III is a five-door SUV/Crossover, offering seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by a relatively conservative and functional aesthetic. The 2015 facelift brought changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the vehicle a more modern appearance. Inside, the Outlander III offers a spacious cabin with a focus on practicality. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity, which ranges from 128 liters (4.52 cu. ft.) with all seats up to 1608 liters (56.79 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Safety features were a key consideration, with the Outlander III offering a range of active and passive safety systems designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4695 mm (184.84 in.) in length, 1810 mm (71.26 in.) in width, and 1680 mm (66.14 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2670 mm (105.12 in.) and a ride height of 190 mm (7.48 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Outlander |
| Generation | Outlander III (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 MIVEC (150 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 4200 rpm (143.82 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4J11 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| 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 | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 128 l (4.52 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1608 l (56.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4695 mm (184.84 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 190 mm (7.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 (2015-2018) 2.0 MIVEC 4WD Automatic offered a practical and reliable option in the competitive compact SUV segment. While not setting any performance benchmarks, it provided a comfortable ride, ample space, and the added security of all-wheel drive, making it a popular choice for families and individuals in markets where these attributes were highly valued.
