2014 Mitsubishi Outlander: Safe and Sound
The all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is just about to be released to the American automobile market, and last week I got the chance to experience this redesigned vehicle, while exploring the rolling hills and city streets of San Diego.
There were many “car people” at the event I attended, but I personally had my “mommy glasses” on, so let me just dive right in to what makes this vehicle a fantastic choice for a family.
It seats 7 passengers.
That’s right, just as many as my minivan! If you’re the kind of mom who cringes at the thought of driving a minivan around town, this may just be the vehicle for you. The third row pops up and down easily, and provides you with the extra seating or extra cargo space (when folded down). Awesome feature for a family who wants options!
It will save you money.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is the most fuel-efficient small SUV on the market, averaging 31 miles per gallon. The new design has been optimized against wind resistance, and the “eco mode” ensures that you are driving in a way that conserves the most fuel. It is also priced very competitively among similar models.
It is safe.
At the time of the event, the “sport” version of the Outlander had just been given a “top safety plus” rating, and the Mitsubishi executives were looking forward to a similar strong rating for the Outlander that we tested.
The newly designed body of the vehicle is made from energy-absorbing materials that reduce the chance of the frame changing shape in the event of a crash, increasing the safety of those inside the vehicle.
Here are some of the other safety features that come as options on the Outlander:
- a warning signal for obstructions in front of the car
- automatic breaking
- a warning system for lane swerving
- “adaptive cruise control” which adjusts automatically when you get close to the vehicle in front of you