A Little Extra Power Goes a Long Way

After driving the 2003 Outlander I was thoroughly impressed, well almost. While the interior was way above its peers, the ride and handling almost sports car-like and its high level of standard features good on value, it was a tad underpowered.

In the past the only thing the Outlander lacked was power, and the 2004 model remedies the problem with a new 160-hp 2.4-L engine. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

For 2004 Mitsubishi has remedied this. Gone is the 140 hp 2.4-L with 157 lb-ft of torque, replace by a truly sporting 160-hp 2.4-L with 162 lb-ft of torque. In actuality the core of the engine is much the same, but the MIVEC system that sits on top is a radical departure.

MIVEC is Mitsubishi's variable valve timing system, which feels like a low boost supercharger and has the added benefits of better fuel economy and lower emissions. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

What is MIVEC? Basically it's Mitsubishi's variable valve timing system, but it's not basic at all. In a nutshell it offers up two different cam profiles for the engine's dual intake valves, preparatory to the hydraulic actuator engaging a more radical lobe at 3,500 rpm. It feels much like a low boost supercharger, truly improving power throughout the rev range. What's more, both fuel economy and emissions are improved.

Again a manual transmission isn't offered for 2004, but its standard 4-speed automatic is superb. INVEC-II programming actually modifies its shift pattern after learning a driver's throttle inputs, a feature normally only available on premium brand vehicles. Alternatively the driver can have complete control with the transmission's Sportronic manual-mode shifting feature. It holds the gear right up to redline and offers quick and smooth changes with a flick of the console mounted lever, making the most of the new engine. An LCD display in the gauge package shows which gear is engaged. The only alternative compact SUV to offer a manual mode automatic is Hyundai, by the way.