The Outlander, not to be confused with the smaller Outlander Sport, is a midsize SUV that comfortably seats up to seven people across three rows, making it an ideal family vehicle.
When examining the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander, you’ll notice that many motor vehicle manufacturers have begun producing smaller sport utility vehicles (SUVs) with relatively compact engine sizes, yet these vehicles still serve the same purpose as their larger counterparts. The Mitsubishi Outlander falls into this category.

Engineered with a 2400cc in-line petrol engine, the spacious interior of the Mitsubishi Outlander accommodates seven seats, rendering it a suitable family SUV. In addition to the traditional front and passenger seats, two additional seats are located in the trunk. These rear seats can be conveniently folded to create extra space for luggage.
Moreover, the car boasts speakers in each door, ensuring equitable sound distribution throughout the vehicle. Additionally, an amplified subwoofer resides in the trunk, delivering maximum music output. As a result, there’s no need to supplement the manufacturer’s inbuilt speakers with external ones.

The seven-year-old car comes equipped with Bluetooth as a standard infotainment feature, along with steering wheel controls and a hard plastic dashboard coated in leather for easy cleaning. Like most SUVs, the Outlander features a four-wheel drive (4WD) system with an on/off button positioned between the driver and co-driver’s seats. This system can be engaged or disengaged as needed, depending on the road terrain.

During my test drive of the Outlander on a Saturday afternoon, which commenced at Cadam Car Bond in Lugogo, Kampala, I realized that it had covered only 40,255 km-a fairly low mileage by Ugandan standards. Beyond its sleek appearance, the Outlander boasts full-time daytime running lights (DRL) for enhanced safety and visibility.

Interior features of the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander.

The dashboard of the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander boasts several noteworthy features. First, a medium-sized smart screen provides convenient interaction. Additionally, steering wheel controls allow you to operate your phone without physically holding it, ensuring your attention remains on the road. When you pair your phone with the car’s Bluetooth system, making phone calls becomes hands-free.

Furthermore, the Outlander is equipped with all-round cameras, offering a clearer view of the car’s exterior and surroundings through the smart screen while driving or parking. When you’re behind the wheel, the Outlander’s paddle shifters allow you to switch between manual and automatic transmission. To select a specific driving gear (ranging from one to six), push down the right paddle located behind the right-hand side of the steering wheel. For lower gears, lift the left paddle positioned on the left-hand side, also behind the steering wheel.

Regarding driving modes, the Outlander offers two options: standard and eco. Notably, the eco-mode prioritizes fuel efficiency without compromising performance. It turns off the engine during traffic jams while keeping the air conditioning system operational. This mode also features an automatic start and stop function. When you accelerate, the engine starts automatically, contributing to fuel savings. According to Mujib Tusuubira, a car dealer at Cadam, the eco-mode proves beneficial for efficient driving without sacrificing performance. It’s a smart choice for those looking to save fuel during their journeys.

What about off-roader properties?

When it comes to off-road capability, the Outlander shines, and this is where the standard mode proves its worth. For instance, during my drive along the Kira to Kasangati Road, which is currently under construction, engaging the standard mode highlighted the vehicle’s ability to gain performance power through the engine.

As you press the accelerator, the engine revs smoothly without any drag, allowing you to increase speed effortlessly. Remarkably, this performance doesn’t significantly impact fuel consumption. During my journey from Lugogo to Ntinda via Najjeera, Kira, Kasangati, Gayaza Road, Kyanja, Kisaasi, Bukoto, and eventually back to Lugogo, I used approximately three liters of fuel.

While the Mitsubishi Outlander 2016 may not be as common among private motorists (except government agencies), it competes with other compact sport utility vehicles. Notable rivals include the Toyota Harrier, Mercedes Benz ML, Land Rover Freelander, Volkswagen Touareg, Tiguan, Nissan Qashqai, X-Trail, and the KIA Sorento and Sportage.

And some words about maintenance.

Owning a used car doesn't have to be a recipe for expensive repairs. While maintenance costs might be a concern, following a few key principles can ensure your pre-owned vehicle runs smoothly for years to come. More details about the maintenance of a legendary SUV Mitsubishi Outlander read in Mitsubishi Outlander 2007-2013 Service Manual.

Putting off maintenance might seem like a way to save money in the short term, but it's a false economy. Disregarding service intervals can lead to a domino effect of problems. For instance, skipping an oil change can lead to clogged filters and ultimately damage your engine. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to avoiding major issues down the road. The sooner you address potential problems, the less likely you are to face expensive repairs.

Regular maintenance is a form of showing your car some love and care. By following the manufacturer's recommendations and addressing minor issues promptly, you're ensuring your car remains in top condition. This translates to a smoother driving experience, better fuel efficiency, and ultimately, a longer lifespan for your vehicle.