Facelifted Mitsubishi Outlander leaked online

The facelifted Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SUV will go on sale in the UK this autumn, according to new information which has leaked online.

According to the report, which cites Mitsubishi itself as the source, the updated Outlander PHEV gets a new front bumper, carrying the Japanese firm's "dynamic shield" design, as well as new paint colours and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The car takes styling inspiration from last year's Outlander PHEV Concept-S, which itself previewed Mitsubishi's new design language. The facelifted Outlander also gains elements from previous Mitsubishi concepts like including the XR-PHEV and GC-PHEV.

At the New York motor show earlier this year, Mitsubishi said it had comprehensively redesigned the seven-seat SUV, adding new LED lights and new styling details at the front and rear.

Underneath, the Japanese manufacturer says it has strengthened the car’s chassis, redesigned its suspension setup, reduced noise and vibrations inside, added electric power steering.

Inside, the facelifted Outlander models get a redesigned steering wheel, a new infotainment system and an updated range of safety tech - including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Mitusbishi hasn’t released official details of the facelifted Outlander’s powertrain - however, the current Outlander gets a 2.2-litre diesel motor but is also available in 2.0-litre PHEV form as well. Minor improvements to the PHEV's hybrid powertrain are said to have improved the car's range. The firm is also understood to have made improvements to the car's steering system, as well as its ride and handling.

Mitsubishi Motors North America vice president Don Swearingen said: “Mitsubishi's outstanding sales momentum is carrying into the new year and with the arrival of the 2016 Outlander crossover we are well positioned to sustain our growth."

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