One of The Best All-Wheel-Drive Systems

‍

It all starts underneath the vehicles with Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), one of the best all-wheel-drive systems on the road. And that’s because it does more than just put power to all four wheels; it does so intelligently and selectively. A myriad of sensors monitors dynamics such as wheel spin, vehicle pitch and yaw, and even driver input hundreds of times per second; that information is then used to control various systems on the fly such as the Active Center Differential, Active Yaw Control, Active Stability Control, and Anti-lock Braking System, all working together to manage torque and braking at each individual wheel to keep them pointed where you want them. And the best part is, the systems are so seamless that the driver doesn’t even know when they’re doing their jobs.

‍

If that weren’t enough, S-AWC comes with even more ability for control. Multiple drive modes let the driver select vehicle management systems to best suit the conditions. The Eclipse Cross features Normal, Gravel, and Snow modes, while the Outlander and Outlander PHEV add Tarmac and Mud. The Outlander PHEV goes a step further with an additional ECO mode to better utilize its electric drive.

Superior Capability

‍

All the drive modes control systems such as engine and electric motor power, transmission shifting, steering, and stability control to better suit driving conditions. In Snow mode, for example, engine power is muted to give softer acceleration, the transmission starts in second gear, and traction control gets heightened reactions – ideal for light to medium snow-covered roads. For deeper snow, Mud mode uses the centre differential to send power to the wheels with the most traction, and is especially useful for accelerating and turning from a stop. With any mode change, a vivid graphic pops up on the digital driver display to ensure the driver is aware.

‍

Of course, proper winter tires are essential for any vehicle, and they’ll further enhance the already superior capabilities of S-AWC. Make sure they’re properly inflated to what the card on the inside of the driver’s door lists, and not to what it says on the tire sidewall.

‍

Year-Round Safety and Comfort

‍

But winter safety doesn’t just stop at the powertrain. Heated door mirrors, windshield wiper defrosters and headlight washers help the driver keep a clear view of the road. And a suite of available electronic driving aids adds another element of safety, with systems that include Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Warning, Forward Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection, and Traffic Sign Recognition, among others, to help keep you safe year-round.

‍

And when it comes to passenger comfort, a Mitsubishi is a cozy place to be when the temperatures plummet. Heated seats and an available heated steering wheel on certain models take the chill out of those cold starts, while available triple climate controls let the driver, front passenger and rear passengers adjust their own heat levels.

‍

Mitsubishi Connect

‍

That comfort also comes from your own pocket, via your smartphone. The Mitsubishi Connect app has features that let you control your eligible vehicle from the warmth of your home or office. Start your vehicle remotely to let it warm up before you get in, or use the scheduled start feature so you know it will be toasty every morning before the commute. Even the Car Finder feature will get you get to your vehicle in the crowded parking lot sooner, so you don’t wander around in the cold. And if the worst should happen, the vehicle will send a distress message to the Mitsubishi Connect Emergency Response Centre to dispatch emergency services to your location. These are just a few of the features available with Mitsubishi Connect.

‍

Whether you like winter or not, it’s a fact of life here in Canada, and something we all have to deal with. At least with a Mitsubishi, you’ll be better equipped when it comes to safety and comfort. Just don’t forget, no matter how capable the vehicles may be, best to take it easy out there on those icy roads. Stay safe, everyone.

‍