VISCOUS COUPLING 4WD (on AWD models), Active-Front Differential (AFD)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
DIA QUEEN ATF SP-III (or equivalent MERCON V / ATF+4 approved)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-3 or GL-4 75W-90 gear oil
Fluid Capacities
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.8 US quarts (7.4 liters) for refill
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.3 US quarts (2.2 liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65.7 inches (1669 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3263 - 3527 lbs (1480 - 1600 kg) depending on FWD/AWD and trim
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 27.7 cubic feet (784 liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 64.5 cubic feet (1827 liters)
Tires Wheels
Standard Tire Size:
215/60R16
Optional Tire Size:
225/55R18
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2004 model)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most trims (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, often integrated with AWD system.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM CD player with optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system. Auxiliary input jack may be present on later models or aftermarket.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity
Keyless Entry:
Available on many trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Platinum: 105,000 miles (168,000 km); Iridium: 120,000 miles (192,000 km).
Coolant Flush Interval:
First at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Automatic:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) under normal conditions, or more frequently under severe driving conditions (towing, stop-and-go).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid
Known Issues
Common Wear Item:
Front struts and shock absorbers, sway bar links, A/C compressor clutch, rear wheel bearings.
Engine Reliability:
Generally reliable, but oil sludge can be an issue if maintenance is neglected. Check for timing belt condition (if applicable, though 4G64 is chain-driven). Intake manifold gaskets can sometimes leak.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission can occasionally exhibit harsh shifting or slipping; regular fluid changes are critical.
Electrical Quirks:
Power window regulators can fail, sometimes issues with blower motor resistors for HVAC.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer History:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing robust and capable vehicles, including SUVs and performance cars.
Model Evolution
Generation Start Year:
2001 (JDM Airtrek), 2003 (Global Outlander)
Generation End Year:
2006
Facelift:
Minor styling updates in 2005.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Okazaki Plant, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Earned 'Good' rating in IIHS frontal offset crash test.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied by year; generally rated average to above average for this era of Mitsubishi.