Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 DI-DC GX2 4WD 5dr Car Review - February 2012

The 2.2 litre 4-cylinder diesel engine produces a healthy 174 bhp and 280 lb-ft of torque. 0-62mph takes a brisk 9.8 seconds and flat out you'll be doing 124mph. The engine is smooth and refined and maximum torque is delivered low down in the rev range, making the Outlander feel muscular at lower speeds.

The Outlander handles well for a 4x4 due to firm suspension that limits body lean when tackling corners. The steering and gearshift are smooth and precise too. The downside of the firm suspension is that the ride is not as comfortable as it could be. There is a switch that allows you to change between front and four-wheel drive, or an automatic mode that sends the power wherever it is needed. Wind and road noise are too prevalent at motorway speeds.

The dashboard is well-laid out putting everything within easy reach. However some of minor instruments could be easier to read. The Outlander’s wide seats provide plenty of comfort and all-round visibility is good.

The Outlander certainly looks the part. Inside, the materials are solid and resilient without being as plush as those you might find in a Land Rover Freelander or BMW X3.

You get climate control, cruise control, electric mirrors and electric front windows as standard, with metallic paint available at additional cost.

However, the Outlander misses out on alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity and a variety of cosmetic upgrades available with the higher GX3 trim.

The entry-level GX2 comes with five seats, with the top two trims offering seven seats. That said, on these models the third row is cramped even for kids so you’re probably better off without them. On the plus side, the GX2 is a roomy five-seater. It is a little short of headroom but the legroom is generous. The boot is huge and features a handy split tailgate. There are 774 litres of boot space with the seats up, and 1691 litres when the seats are down.

In terms of safety kit, all models feature stability control. Unfortunately the GX2 only comes equipped with front airbags. GX3 and GX4 models both feature side and window airbags. All models come with an alarm and immobiliser. Mitsubishi 4x4s are in general solid and reliable, and the Outlander should be no different.

The car comes with a three year unlimited mileage warranty.

The entry-level GX2 is priced at £22,499, the second cheapest car in the range and much cheaper than its two main rivals the BMW X3 and Land Rover Discovery. It is not the best equipped model in the range but its fuel economy and carbon emissions better that of the GX3 and the top of the range GX4.

The car has low running costs and comes under the low cost road tax band G. Insurance should also be reasonablewith the Outlander coming under group 24. Its fuel economy is good at 44.8mpg, and the car has good green credentials having been awarded a Euro 5 emissions rating with a carbon footprint of 165g/km.