• Third generation mid-sized crossover
• Target CO2 emissions of under 130g/km
• On sale this summer

A preview version of the all new Mitsubishi Outlander is to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The Outlander concept points towards the anticipated production model. Practicality has played a key role in its design with the new model featuring a powered tail-gate, a flat floor cargo area and a full third row of seats.

At launch there will be two engines available for the European market: a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. Both will come with stop and start technology, as well as an optional six-speed automatic gearbox and the choice of two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations. A plug-in hybrid version is also being planned for 2013.

An ‘eco-friendly driving system’ will feature, which notifies the driver when they are driving most efficiently, maximising fuel economy. Official fuel consumption and emissions figures have yet to be announced but Mitsubishi is aiming to keep CO2 emissions below 130g/km for the final production version.

The concept shows off a clean, functional exterior design. The interior is equally focussed with an uncluttered dashboard aimed at improving driver concentration. That’s not to say it’s poorly trimmed. High grade, soft-touch plastics and padded surfaces feature throughout with highlights in silver and gloss black.

The new Mitsubishi Outlander will go on sale late this summer, when it will go toe-to-toe with the Volkswagen Tiguan and UK favourite Nissan Qashqai. Prices for the production version have yet to be confirmed.

By Daljinder Nagra