2023 Mitsubishi Outlander off-road style build on All terrain Tires

While the crossovers like the Toyota Rav4s and Subaru Foresters dominate the compact AWD off-road scene, the 4th gen Mitsubishi Outlander may seem to be left behind of the mainstream. But with its attractive appearance, all-wheel-drive system, sufficient ground clearance, and good cargo space, it has everything one may need for mild off-roading and camping builds.

A 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander that we’re featuring today showcases the model’s potential as an adventure crossover platform. This build sports subtle yet effective upgrades including a RhinoRack Pioneer Platform for camping gear, auxiliary LED lights for improved visibility, and all-terrain tires to reach a desolate camping spot with confidence. These modifications, along with a few other tweaks, transform this Outlander into a pretty capable weekend warrior that doesn’t compromise its daily-driver benefits.

Unlike the RAV4 with its “TRD Off-Road” and Subaru Forester with its “Wilderness” trim, Mitsubishi doesn’t offer a special trim for adventurers. However, the Black Edition Outlander seems to be the most suitable choice for drivers with an active lifestyle. Apart from its convenient and usable features, it’s most attractive because of the S-AWC all-wheel-drive feature that ensures optimal traction when going off-road.

S-AWC All-Wheel-Drive

If you’re into cars and have respect for Mitsubishi vehicles that carry the Evolution nameplate, then you’ve definitely heard about its famous AWC (All Wheel Control) system. This system distributes torque among all four wheels to gain optimal traction on all kinds of surfaces, whether it’s gravel, mud, snow, or asphalt. The S-AWC is one of the later variations of this system, adapted for the needs of a modern crossover owner. While it may not show such impressive results as the race-spec drivetrain of the Lancer Evo, it will take care of delivering you to that desolate camping spot you’re planning to reach this weekend.

All Wheel Control (AWC) is the brand name of a four-wheel drive (4WD) system developed by Mitsubishi Motors. The system was first incorporated in the 2001 Lancer Evolution VII. Subsequent developments have led to S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control), developed specifically for the new 2007 Lancer Evolution. The system is referred by the company as its unique 4-wheel drive technology umbrella, cultivated through its motor sports activities and long history in rallying spanning almost half a century.

Wikipedia

The S-AWC demonstrates an excellent driving performance on slippery road conditions such as off-road and in snow, and also supports drivers to drive comfortably on a daily basis.

Mitsubishi Motors

The Build

Being a person with active lifestyle who enjoys camping and outdoor activities, the owner of this Mitsubishi Outlander has made several key modifications to enhance its versatility, off-road capabilities and of course thevisual appeal:

Wheels and Tires

For summer use, the Outlander rolls on RAYS VolkRacing TE37 SAGA S-Plus wheels (18-inch, 8.5J +35) wrapped in BFGoodrich Trail Terrain 255/55/18 RBL tires. The winter setup features RAYS TeamDAYTONA F6 Drive wheels with Yokohama ICE Guard G075 tires, for maximum stability on slippery roads.

Lighting

Significant upgrades to visibility include Strands Siberia cube lights on the hood, Siberia DL 8″ lights in the grill, and a Strands DARK KNIGHT Nuuk 30″ LED light bar on the roof. These additions greatly improve nighttime visibility whether it’s driving or iluminating the campsight.

Exterior and Roof Rack

The vehicle’s utility is enhanced with a RhinoRack Pioneer Platform (1328mm x 1236mm) and RhinoRack SunSeeker 2.0 awning. These additions provide ample space for gear storage and shelter during the camping trips.

Aesthetics

To improve the visual appeal the owner added a couple of subtle custom touches that include a white diamond finish on the dynamic shield and black accents on various emblems. The roof has been wrapped in matte black, contrasting nicely with the pearl white roof rails, creating a distinctive look that sets this Outlander apart from the stock models.