As on the Japanese market model, the new Outlander will use a newly designed high-rigidity platform that realises improved impact safety and an aluminium roof panel that lowers the centre of gravity and reduces roll inertia for improved handling performance and ride. Outlander also offers outstanding utility performance with a split tailgate ("Flap-fold tailgate") that facilitates the loading of different sizes and weights of luggage and with an available 7-seat layout that features two occasional-use third row seats stored flat under the floor (Underfloor-stowable compact 3rd row seat). Outlander also features Mitsubishi's Sportronic steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to change gear manually without having to take his/her hand off the steering wheel.

Mitsubishi Motors began revamping its car engine line-up in 2004 to a common theme of high performance, low fuel consumption, low weight, and compact size. The new 3-litre V6 MIVEC engine powering the North American Outlander is the fourth new engine in this theme, following the 4A9-type 4-cylinder 1.3 and 1.5-litre units that power the European Colt launched in May 2004 (and the Japanese Colt from October 2004), the 4B1-type 4-cylinder 2.4-litre unit that powers the Japanese Outlander launched in October 2005 and the 3B2-type 3-cylinder 660cc engine that powers the i minicar launched in Japan in January this year.

Like the other members of the new engine line-up the 3-litre V6 MIVEC engine incorporates many advanced features including an aluminium cylinder block, a resin variable air induction system, and Mitsubishi's own MIVEC variable valve timing system to generate best-in-class output and torque. The new power unit achieves this higher performance while being about 25 kg lighter, and realising about 5% better fuel economy, than its 6G7-type 3-litre V6 predecessor. In addition, the use of a high-performance catalytic converter means that the North American Outlander is expected to receive the Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) designation under California emissions standards (according to in house testing).

The Outlander will be joined at the New York International Automobile Show by 9 other models including the new Eclipse Spyder convertible and the 2007 special edition Galant Ralliart mid-size luxury sports sedan due to go on sale this (northern) autumn.

*1 MIVEC: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system