The Mitsubishi Outlander I, produced between 2001 and 2003, represents Mitsubishi’s initial foray into the burgeoning compact SUV/Crossover market. While not initially sold in the United States during its first generation, the Outlander was a significant model for Mitsubishi in Europe and other international markets, offering a blend of practicality, available all-wheel drive, and a relatively affordable price point. It served as a competitor to vehicles like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, aiming to provide a versatile vehicle for families and individuals seeking a capable and comfortable mode of transport. This article details the 2.4i 16V 4WD XLS variant, equipped with a 142 horsepower engine.
Mitsubishi Outlander I: An Overview
The first-generation Outlander (codenamed CU2W) was based on the Mitsubishi GS platform, shared with the Lancer. It distinguished itself with a unibody construction, a departure from the body-on-frame designs common in some older SUVs. This construction method contributed to improved ride quality and handling. The Outlander I was positioned as a five-door SUV/Crossover, offering seating for five passengers. The “XLS” trim level, as detailed here, typically included a higher level of standard equipment and interior refinement compared to base models.
Engine & Performance
The 2.4i 16V 4WD XLS Outlander is powered by Mitsubishi’s 4G64 inline-four cylinder engine, displacing 2.4 liters (2350 cm3 or 143.41 cu. in.). This naturally aspirated engine produces 142 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 213 Nm (157.1 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2500 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 10.8:1. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.7 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 169 km/h (105.01 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7 kg/Nm. Fuel economy is rated at 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) in urban driving and 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Outlander I features a typical early 2000s SUV design, characterized by a relatively boxy silhouette and a focus on practicality. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4550 mm (179.13 in.) in length, 1750 mm (68.9 in.) in width, and 1605 mm (63.19 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2878 mm (113.31 in.). The interior prioritizes functionality, offering comfortable seating for five passengers and a generous 1708 liters (60.32 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats folded down.
Standard features on the XLS trim typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an audio system. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and hydraulic power steering. The suspension utilizes coil springs on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride. The vehicle rides on 215/60 R16 tires. The Outlander’s all-wheel-drive system enhances traction in various weather conditions, making it a suitable choice for drivers in regions with inclement weather.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Outlander |
| Generation | Outlander I |
| Type | 2.4 i 16V 4WD XLS (142 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 142 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 213 Nm @ 2500 rpm (157.1 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G64 |
| Engine displacement | 2350 cm3 (143.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1708 l (60.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4550 mm (179.13 in.) |
| Width | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Height | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2878 mm (113.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
The Mitsubishi Outlander I, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a solid effort from Mitsubishi to compete in the growing compact SUV segment. Its combination of all-wheel drive, practicality, and reasonable fuel economy made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle, particularly in markets outside of North America.
