Click on the image for more high-res shots

Mitsubishi hinted at the fact that they were considering using their twin-clutch Sports Shift Transmission (SST) in an SUV when they showed their Concept-cX compact SUV concept in Frankfurt last year. While we don't have any news to report as to the Concept-cX, we do have an official announcement that the SST will be making its way into the Outlander, at least in the U.K. This is the same transmission that is found in the awe-inspiring Lancer Evolution, which is available in the U.S., so we have hopes that the Outlander will get this option in the states too. An Outlander equipped with the SST and paddle shifters will be shown at the Paris Motor Show in early October and will officially go on sale in the first quarter of 2009. When paired with the 2.2 Di-D engine, we're sure that the emissions and consumption numbers will be low.


[Source: Mitsubishi]

The Lancashire Constabulary has ordered four Mitsubishi Outlanders powered by the 2.2 liter diesel engine option for their "rural patrol" vehicles. According to Chris Malkin, Fleet & Transport Manager from Lancashire Constabulary, the Outlander won out due to its "high mpg with low carbon emissions, a reduced environmental impact and low running costs." Malkin also mentioned the Outlander's solid safety scores and high level of standard equipment as reasons that it was chosen.

We're not sure what vehicles were replaced, but we can be sure that the emissions were reduced in the switch. Each year, emissions standards get tougher so the air is cleaner as older fleets are replaced with new vehicles.

[Source: Car Pages]

On center stage at TalkRadio 790 KABC's Third Annual Clean Air Showcase is the new '08 Lancer and '07 Outlander. The reason? Instead of just throwing some regular models for the masses while they develop full hybrid or alternative fuel versions, Mitsubishi has taken a stopgap measure by greening their current technology. The 2.0L four-clynder in the new Lancer and the V6 in the Outlander both have received a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) rating. Efforts to make this happen include complex catalyst systems, and evaporative emissions systems that address vapors from things like batteries, plastics and the fuel system.

The event will be held on Saturday, June 9 (tomorrow) in Santa Monica, California at the Third Street Promenade. Entrance is free, and people will be able to get in and even test drive vehicles of their choice. Mitsubishi hopes that by trying as hard as they are, they can convince the public that you don't have to sacrifice performance and driving pleasure to be green to the environment. That's true, but only 143 hp in the Lancer? And 213 for the Outlander SUV? Who's definition of performance are we going by?

[Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America]