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First Drive: Mitsubishi Outlander 4Work

Date: Tuesday, May 3, 2016   |   Author: James Dallas

In terms of fuel economy, Mitsubishi’s official combined cycle consumption for the Outlander is 53.3mpg, with CO2 emissions of 139g/km. The Duster Commercial comes in at 54.3mpg and 137g/km while Ssangyong quotes 45.6mpg and 157g/km for the Korando Commercial 4x4.

The revised Outlander 4Work, which arrived in October last year, sports new LED headlamps, a new radiator grille, and new front and rear bumpers to give the vehicle a more “imposing” look, according to the manufacturer.

The interior, furnished in black and grey, is on the sober side, but all the controls are simple and easy to use, and an elevated driving position provides a good view of surroundings.

On the road the Outlander handles well with precise and steady steering coupled with slick changes from the six-speed manual gearbox that feels at home in town and out on the open road, where the 150hp powertrain delivers plenty of response. Generous equipment levels, befitting the vehicle’s price tag and its passenger car origins, include cruise control, an adjustable speed limiter, stop/start, hill-start assist and dual-zone climate control.

Off-road the 4Work’s 4x4 system, while not in the same league as that of its big brother, the L200 pick-up, makes sure there is no drama in tackling slippery farm tracks and icy rural lanes.

With the selectable 4x4 system in 4WD Eco mode you remain in front-wheel drive until you start to lose grip, which triggers the 4x4 to cut in. Where four-wheel drive is a necessity, 4WD Auto can be engaged to ensure all four wheels are driven continually. If more traction is needed then opt for 4WD Lock.

The load area is reached through a rear tailgate and two side doors, all of which are inherited from the passenger car version. The side doors in particular are not ideal loading apertures, but at least you get two of them. We were disappointed that no bulkhead was fitted to protect the cab from the load bay in our test vehicle, but you can get one fitted for £244.

Value analyst Cap predicts decent residual values for the 4Work of 31.9% after three years/60,000 miles, which may help reassure those who baulk at the asking price.