Design
Mitsubishi proudly touts the fact that the Lancer Evolution sedan was the design inspiration for the Outlander GT Prototype, in particular the car’s “jet fighter” grille. Compared to the current Outlander, the Outlander GT Prototype incorporates new design elements including a reshaped front bumper, side mirrors, fenders and hood. Also, 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 Outlander GT’s sporty appeal.
On the inside, the Outlander GT Prototype’s design has been freshened with the addition of grained synthetic leather, double stitching and chrome accents. Additional Lancer Evolution-inspired design cues include aluminum racing style pedals and a sport-type steering wheel. Also featured is a new, high-contrast, 3.5-inch, full-color, LCD gauge cluster.
Hardware
Though it doesn’t have a new engine, the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype benefits from improvements to the all-aluminum, 3.0-liter V-6 engine currently found in the Outlander XLS, among them increased air intake plus optimized camshaft timing and compression ratio. The engine enhancements raise maximum output by 10 horsepower, for a total of 230 horsepower, giving the Outlander GT Prototype an improved torque curve for more responsive city driving and enhanced fuel economy and emissions, the manufacturer claims. To further increase fuel economy, the Outlander GT Prototype features an upgraded shifting program and Idle Neutral Logic, which automatically, and smoothly, shifts into neutral during vehicle standstill, Mitsubishi says. It re-engages at the slightest lift of the foot off the brake pedal.
Leveraging Mitsubishi’s experience in off-road and rally racing, the Outlander GT Prototype features a Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system that has previously only been available on the Lancer Evolution. More complex than a standard 4-wheel-drive (4WD) system, S-AWC is a comprehensive system that improves handling, traction and stability, according to Mitsubishi. Using a first-in-class active front limited-slip differential and an electronically controlled 4WD coupling, S-AWC can prevent wheel slip between front-to-rear and side-to-side, providing greater traction through all types of terrain and inclement weather, including ice, snow and rain, the automaker says.
The Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype also features a shorter, stiffer suspension for improved handling and a more aggressive look. Nineteen-inch OZ Racing wheels and large Brembo brakes complete the performance upgrades.
