Over in Japan, they took the Mitsubishi Outlander far more seriously...
By fitting a Lancer Evo turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive underpinnings.
Don’t you love when a car manufacturer repurposes its performance car bits?
In our time driving, buying and reviewing cars, we’ve often said more than once, “If only they fitted the engine from their performance car into this thing?”
Well, this is the answer to that exact question. Over in Australia, Mitsubishi sold its first real SUV as the plain old and boring Outlander.
The Mitsubishi Outlander was – and still is – a popular car in Australia. Over in Japan, some models like this example were fitted with the rally-bred and turbocharged 4G63 engine and five-speed automatic that was directly lifted from the Lancer Evolution 7 GT-A.
That means it’s just like an Evo mechanically, so parts are readily available and heavily supported too. The powertrain generates a meaty 177 kW power / 343 Nm torque and is put to the ground via all four wheels.
This example also goes one further in that it was factory-fitted with Ralliart performance parts, like genuine RAYS/Ralliart wheels, an aero kit, and a Ralliart sports exhaust.
The rest of the car is just like your aunt’s Outlander, so rest assured you can get most exterior parts pretty easily, too. Its five-speed auto was originally designed for the Evo, so expect a performance-orientated and clever transmission that shifts quickly and feels direct under load.
Pair it with all-wheel drive and a medium-sized wagon body, and it makes for a really capable, spacious, and affordable family car. If you want something affordable and with a heart of gold – then give this a whirl.
The car pictured – 2004 Mitsubishi Airtrek Turbo R
This Mitsubishi Airtrek is a Turbo R model that was built in May 2004.
That means it’s powered by the legendary 4G63 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and features a five-speed automatic and permanent all-wheel drive.
The exterior is wholly original, and the car has never been repainted, repaired or involved in an accident. The interior presents as it ought to, considering its mileage, and has never been smoked in or soiled.
It was factory optioned with a Ralliart performance package that included lightweight Ralliart wheels made by RAYS, Ralliart sports suspension, a Ralliart performance muffler, an exterior aero kit and a rear tailgate decal. Standard features include remote central locking, climate control air conditioning, white-faced gauges, a centre armrest and a plethora of in-car storage.
The car was purchased from USS Tokyo as a one-owner and 4.0B grade example with a genuine 57,975 km. It is supported by a full Mitsubishi dealership service history and an export certificate that both confirm its mileage.
The vehicle was also serviced upon arriving in Australia and passed its roadworthy with flying colours. A new set of tyres was also fitted locally.
Quick facts
- 2003 Mitsubishi Airtrek Turbo R
- Genuine 58,870km!
- 2.0-litre ‘4G63’ turbocharged engine (Evo 7 GT-A running gear)
- 177kW power / 343Nm torque
- Five-speed auto / All wheel drive
- Auction grade 4.0B
- One owner car
- Full Mitsubishi service history
- Factory Ralliart sports pack: Lightweight RAYS wheels, Ralliart suspension, Ralliart exhaust, Ralliart aero kit + Ralliart rear tailgate decal
- Factory equipment: Climate control, remote central locking, Alarm/immobiliser, cup holders, heaps of storage space
- New high-quality tyres fitted
- Servicing upon arriving into Australia
- In well-above average condition – never repaired and original
- Japanese de-registration paperwork and auction paperwork available
- Price includes Federal SEVS compliance
- Price includes a NSW roadworthy (blue slip)
- Price includes three-months NSW registration
The Airtrek is a fast-selling new-age crossover RV that brings together the comfort of the sedan and the go-anywhere, high-utility qualities of a SUV.Mitsubishi Japan at 37th Tokyo Motor Show, October 15 2003
