Mitsubishi has released a more competitively priced, run-out version of its Outlander SUV, tossing out the sunroof, hill start assist, leather seat trim and fancy nine-speaker sound system and knocking a cool R50 000 off the price.
Mechanically the new R349 900 GLX derivative and the full-monty GLS at R399 900 are identical, each with a 2.4-litre petrol engine rated for 125kW at 6000rpm and 226Nm at 4100, driving via a six-step continuously variable transmission with sports mode and electronically controlled, on-demand two-wheel drive with all-wheel drive and four-wheel-drive lock on demand.
Standard issue on the GLX includes rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, power-adjustable mirrors, electronic stability programme with traction control, antilock braking with electronic brake-pressure distribution and six airbags.
NEW OUTLANDER DUE IN 2013
Each Outlander model is covered by a three-year or 100 000km warranty and a three-year or 60 000km maintenance plan; service intervals are 15 000km.
We're told an all-new Outlander range will arrive here at the end of 2013, built on a versatile global platform. Mitsubishi staffers say it's similar in size to the current model, and will follow Mitsubishi's “engineer's car” design strategy with solid shapes blending into smooth surfaces.
Meanwhile, fans of the long-lived and proven current Outlander have the chance to grab one at a considerable discount - unless you really can't live without leather under your bum and glass overhead.