More aggressive styling, fresh interior trims, retuned suspension and a new emergency stop signal feature are the headline changes for the refreshed Mitsubishi Outlander SUV.

The new Outlander, Mitsubishi says, also features improvements in interior NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) and an upgraded CVT automatic transmission.

The sportier front and rear design has certainly refreshed the Outlander’s appearance, picking up cues from Mitsubishi’s Pajero-based GC-PHEV and compact XR-PHEV SUV concepts unveiled at last year’s Tokyo motor show.

Mitsubishi has also made the emergency stop signal standard across the range. An active safety feature, ESS flashes the hazard warning lights on and off very quickly under heavy braking to alert following motorists.

Other changes for the mid-range update include revised suspension calibration with a new spring mount isolator for improved roll control and primary ride, to provide better balance in cornering as well as improved mid-corner stability. Shock absorbers and dampers have been retuned for improved handling and ride comfort. NVH enhancements improve cabin ambience and the upgraded CVT reportedly delivers better all-round performance and launch feel.

Outlander models all carry Mitsubishi’s five-year 130,000km new car warranty, four-year capped price servicing and five-star ANCAP rating. Pricing starts at $27,740 for the ES 2.0-litre petrol 2WD manual and rises to $46,890 for the Aspire 2.2-litre diesel 4WD (all prices plus ORC). The updated Outlander range is available nationally now.