2021 Mitsubishi Outlander images leaked on social media

KUALA LUMPUR: Back in July, Mitsubishi confirmed the arrival of the next-generation Outlander SUV in early next year, promising that this time it will be “bigger, bolder and better than before”. Well, we do not need to wait that long to see it as the leaked images of the mid-size SUV are now making the rounds on social media. 

The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander leaked photos were posted on an Instagram account, named @allcarnews, which shows the upcoming SUV completely undisguised sitting in an open parking lot.

Although there is no confirmation on their authenticity, the leaked appears to be the real deal as it bears a strong resemblance to the Engelberg Tourer concept revealed by the Japanese automaker last year. The SUV features the brand's latest design language with a pointed front facia and slim headlamps. On the sides, a boxier profile can be observed, with the concepts’ unique crease lines available on the lower portion of the body and the door handles.

The leaked images also reveal a dynamic roofline of the SUV, which gently slopes downwards towards the tail, merging with the new windows lines shape. The quarter glass and tailgate also confirm the fact that the new Outlander will have smaller window sections than the predecessor. At the rear end lies the slimmer tail lights, horizontal reflector strips, and two outlets on the redesigned bumper.

Moving to the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander cabin, the leak does not provide any interior shot but the concept model has already showcased the SUV’s cabin (pictured above) with a largely uninterrupted dashboard hosting a widescreen infotainment display. 

On the mechanical front, the SUV is likely to be overhauled by the X-Trail's 2.5-litre gasoline four-cylinder mill generating 183 PS of maximum power and 245 Nm of peak torque. A PHEV alternative should also be there with a combination of a 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated four-pot engine and two electric motors.

Talking about the home market, the Outlander is one of the most popular SUVs; however, due to its age, it now faces tough competition with the Nissan X-Trail, Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, and Mazda CX-8. We hope Mitsubishi SUV will be back in the game with its next-generation update.

Also read: 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross facelift arrives in Japan, gets new PHEV powertrain