All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, transfer case, differentials (front and rear), CV joints
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link, torsion beam depending on variant), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, tie rod ends
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting system, horn
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per market/manufacturer recommendation, typically 91 RON or higher)
Performance
Top Speed Approx:
170-190 km/h (105-118 mph)
Acceleration 0 100Kph Approx:
10-13 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (common)
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (INVECS-II)
Features
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - often electronically controlled with viscous coupling or electronically controlled clutch pack
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi DIA Queen ATF-J2 or equivalent DEXRON II/III compatible
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 gear oil
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4330-4420 mm (170.5-174.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1735-1770 mm (68.3-69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1630-1670 mm (64.2-65.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Interior
Seating Capacity:
5-7 passengers (depending on configuration)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 300-400 liters (10.6-14.1 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1500-1700 liters (53-60 cu ft)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350-1550 kg (2976-3417 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1900-2100 kg (4189-4630 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific test, generally aimed for good front/side impact protection (check individual year reports)
Idasc Ratings:
N/A for this generation
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most higher trims and later models
Traction Control:
Optional on some AWD models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags on some models
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure, though specific rollover ratings may be limited
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, optional premium sound system
Display:
Basic digital or analog display for radio and climate control
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels
Parking Sensors:
Rarely available or aftermarket
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions may be available
Bluetooth:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions may be available
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Engine Oil Filter Interval:
Replace with every oil change
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium/platinum
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km) or 5-7 years (critical for 4G63/4G93 engines, check manual for specific code)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles (38,000-48,000 km) or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature, refer to manual for specific chart)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some engines, particularly those with higher mileage or the 4G63, may exhibit increased oil consumption. Regular checks are advised.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Failure of the timing belt tensioner can lead to belt slippage or breakage, causing significant engine damage. Replacement at recommended intervals is crucial.
Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting:
Older automatic transmissions can develop harsh shifting or delayed engagement. Fluid changes and filter replacement can help, but internal issues may require professional attention.
Rear Suspension Bushings:
Wear in rear suspension bushings can lead to knocking noises and imprecise handling, especially over bumps.
HVAC Blower Motor:
The blower motor resistor or the motor itself can fail, leading to HVAC fan issues (e.g., only working on high speed or not at all).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
Founding:
1970 (as a spin-off from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries)
Model Evolution
Generation 1 Start:
1991
Generation 1 End:
1996
Generation 2 Start:
1997
Generation 2 End:
2003
Facelift:
Minor updates in 2000/2001 (e.g., grille, lights, interior refinements)
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Mizushima Plant), Netherlands (NedCar)
Discontinuation Reason:
Model replaced by the Mitsubishi Outlander in most markets, or phased out due to evolving market trends and emissions standards.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Auto Express Reviews:
Received moderate reviews for practicality and value, though often outshone by competitors in performance and refinement.
Japanese Car Of The Year:
Not a primary recipient, but part of Mitsubishi's broader portfolio that has received accolades.
Certifications
Euro Ncap Ratings:
Ratings vary by test year and configuration, generally achieving around 3-4 stars for occupant protection in its era.