The third-gen Outlander is present for years now. This SUV was introduced back in 2014 when the Renault-Nissan alliance didn’t even exist. Now, the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander will be the fourth-gen model, finally. For real, Outlander is an aging SUV, and it needs a complete redesign. According to the latest spy shots, the Japanese manufacturer will do precisely that.
Camouflaged Outlander is showing numerous updates, and it looks more upright. The next-gen model will also get a new platform, probably shared with the new Nissan Roque. For that reason, Outlander will grow in size as well. The interior will also gain various updates in terms of design and tech. As for the performance, a new turbocharged engine could be powering the 2021 Outlander.
Spy Shots
The first spy shots of the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander are available. It seems the next-gen model will draw a lot of cues from this year’s Engelberg Tourer concept. The metallic grille is similar to the one at the Eclipse Cross model. In the top corners of the grille, you can find light units, probably a daytime running lights. The headlights are looking rounded and larger than before.
All of these cues are visible at Nissan’s latest concept. Even the side profile is clearly based on the same concept. The roof panel is separated, and the glass area is raising at the rear. For that reason, D-pillar looks more upright. The rear part looks cleaner than on the previous Outlander. Furthermore, taillights are thinner and sharper.
2021 Outlander Will Get New Platform
While not official, reliable reports are suggesting new architecture. The approaching 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander will share its underpinnings with the next Nissan Rogue. Thanks to that, this SUV will grow in size. The same reports are saying the Outlander will directly compete with mid-size SUVs from now on.
The mid-size segment is the strongest segment at the moment. And while Outlander is still far from the most established models, Hyundai Santa Fe seems like the archest enemy.
New Engine
Under the hood of the all-new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander, we hope to see a new turbocharged engine. The most likely candidate is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder unit. The same drivetrain is powering the current Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. It generates 153 horsepower, but Outlander could get a higher output. Furthermore, 2021 Outlander will offer a plug-in hybrid variant, as well. Outlander PHEV comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder.
Interestingly, the Engelberg Tourer concept comes with the twin-motor configuration. The same concept can deliver 43 miles of all-electric driving range. It will be interesting to see if the 2021 Outlander gets its first electric variant. Moreover, borrowing an engine from the Nissan Rogue is another likely outcome. After all, Rogue and Outlander will share the same architecture.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Price and Release Date
The new-generation 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander should arrive next spring. It will debut at the Geneva Motor Show or New York Auto Show. The sales will start in the fall of 2020. The price is quite a mystery at the moment. No doubt, Outlander will now look more premium and larger. For that reason, the price will be closer to $30,000.
