Outlander now RX rated

IT MIGHT cost a sizeable $5235 more than the entry-level 2010 Outlander LS manual ($33,230) upon which it based – and is also $2015 less than the mid-range Outlander XLS automatic ($40,490) – but Mitsubishi’s new limited-edition Outlander RX auto ($38,475) comes with a host of unique interior and exterior features.

Most notable is an exclusive new front bumper and foglights, while unique side and rear air-dams, special 18-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels, silver door-handles, a chromed exhaust outlet and privacy glass also differentiate the outside of the Outlander RX, which will be limited to 500 units.

Unlike the base LS, the RX also scores a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard, as well as unique interior touches like leather and sports mesh seat trim, silver console panels and chromed door-pulls, while keyless starting and Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity are also part of the price.

The RX shares its 2.4-litre MIVEC four-cylinder petrol engine with the Outlander LS and XLS (but not the auto-only VR and VRX, which run a 3.0-litre petrol V6) and, like all Outlanders, comes with all-wheel drive, twin front airbags, electronic stability and traction control, ABS brakes with EBD, and Hill Start Control.

It is now available in three colours: Black Mica, Cool Silver and White Pearl – the latter exclusively available for the RX – and comes with Mitsubishi’s outstanding five-year/130,000km new-car warranty and roadside assist, plus a 10-year/160,000km non-transferrable drivetrain warranty.

“This attention-grabbing vehicle offers great street presence, drivability and functionality,” said Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited vice-president of brand and marketing, Paul Unerkov.