When you compete in the toughest segment of today’s automotive industry, eight years without a redesign seems like a pretty too long time. That’s the reason why we are eagerly waiting to see the next generation of this compact SUV. The last time we saw a redesign was back in 2012 and despite a couple of updates, the current generation seems outdated in many aspects. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi has become a part of the Renault Nissan Alliance. So, the next-generation model will have a lot of things in common with new corporal counterparts, such as Nissan Rogue. The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander will ride on the same platform and share many design solutions.
Despite the similarities, the new model will also be pretty distinctive, especially in terms of aesthetics. The test mule has been spotted for a couple of times and it already shows a lot, despite the camouflage. The new model will look distinctive and that may be one of its strong points, or not?
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Redesign
The upcoming redesign will bring significant novelties without any doubt. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the platform. Given the fact that the Japanese company is now part of Renault Nissan Alliance, we have no doubt it will use one of the existing platforms and the first pick, obviously, would be the CMF architecture. This platform already underprints the popular Rogue crossover. We expect it will do the same job for the next generation as well. Of course, it will get a big update for this occasion and one of the things that come to mind is the size of 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander. The two crossovers will share the wheelbase, which means that the new generation of Outlander will probably feature two more inches between the axles.
Styling
Without any doubt, styling will be one of the most interesting things about the new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander. The testing model has been around for some. Despite the mule still wears a complete camouflage, it’s pretty obvious that the new styling will be significantly different compared to the outgoing model.
It’s not hard to notice a pretty bold styling under the camo, as well as those large headlights. This clearly indicates that the new model will take a lot of inspiration from the Engleberg Tourer Concept that was present a couple of years. This particularly refers to the front end, where 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander is about to come with a similar approach, in terms of lighting groups, bold grille and massive bumper. The whole body seems to feature a pretty bold look, which isn’t a common thing among modern crossovers and that could be a good way to stands out.
Interior
This is where we expect to see significant changes compared to the current model. Simply, the cabin hasn’t been touched for all these years, so it’s no wonder it looks a little bit outdated. However, an interesting thing is that even such an old-looking cabin actually features a lof of soft-touch surfaces. Therefore, we have big expectations from the new model in this aspect. Given the longer wheelbase, we also count on more interior space. The current model is one of the rare compact SUVs that offer three rows of seats. Will the new model also come in such a configuration? It’s hard to say.
On the other side, the aspect where the current model really lacks is the number of tech goodies. Therefore, we count on a significantly longer list in the new model, which should come with a new infotainment system, more connectivity options and all other goodies.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Engines
When it comes to the engine lineup, one of the first things that come to mind is the PHEV version. We have no doubt that Mitsubishi is going to update the current system and offer an even greener version, which will have even lower emissions. Also, it should feature a little bit more power and maybe even a longer all-electric range, which currently goes around 22 miles.
Besides the plug-in hybrid version, the new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander should come with a couple of gasoline engines in the offer as well. At this point, it’s hard to say whether the new model is about to keep Mitsubishi’s engines, or it will feature some of the Nissan’s units, which would perfectly fit the new CMF platform.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Release Date and Price
The new-generation 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander is expected to hit the market sometime in the second half of the year. At this point, we don’t know the exact date. Still, we presume that the testing model will appear on the road a few more times, maybe even completely unveiled, before it hits showrooms. When it comes to the price, the current model goes around 25.000 dollars. We don’t expect significant changes in the future.