All About Design

Building on the success of the Mitsubishi Outlander, Mitsubishi Motors North America today conducted the World debut of a distinctive new model that takes the compact SUV to another new level of performance and sportiness – the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype.

The all-new design study is the centerpiece of the Mitsubishi Motors exhibit at the New York International Auto Show, which continues through April 19.

A front grille design inspired by the Lancer Evolution’s ‘jet fighter’ look is clearly in play on the Outlander GT Prototype, which sports complementary new design elements, such as a reshaped front bumper, side mirrors, fenders and hood. Reshaped Bi-Xenon HID headlamps, a new rear bumper and side sills, plus a bold polished finish on the already standard aluminum roof panel accentuate the sporty appeal.

Mitsubishi started by massaging the SOHC 3.0-liter V6, lifting output by 10 horsepower to 230 hp while boosting low-end torque. By reprogramming the engine/transmission control unit, the company also was able to enhance fuel economy. To improve handling, the engineers stiffened the suspension and fitted larger Brembo brakes, along with 19-inch OZ Racing wheels and performance tires.

The Outlander GT also borrows heavily from the Lancer Evolution, notably the car’s mighty Super All-Wheel-Control (S-AWC) system, employing a front limited-slip differential and an electronically controlled 4WD coupling to prevent wheel slip and provide greater all-weather traction.

To help improve the car’s fuel efficiency, the model will also showcase a range of new technologies, including Idle Neutral Logic, that automatically shifts the gearbox into neutral when the car is at a standstill, so saving valuable fuel.

Tags: aluminum roof, compact suv, design elements, family car, fuel economy, fuel efficiency, international auto show, lancer evolution, limited slip differential, liter v6, mitsubishi motors, mitsubishi outlander, Mitsubishi Outlander GT, Mitsubishi Outlander GT Review, new york international auto show, outlander mitsubishi, performance tires, sporty appeal, transmission control unit

This entry was posted on Friday, August 14th, 2009 at 3:39 am and is filed under family car. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.