I just went on Mitsu Canada website and the 2009 Outlander specs are there. One of the most notable updates is that all models have redesigned side sill garnish (to prevent the paint chipping). From the pictures it seems like there is also a door garnish (from the straight line on the door), but it's not listed and I haven't seen the cars yet.
Another notable thing, at least forCanada, is that the LS model gets more stuff (paddle shifter, heated cloth seats, fogs - they show in the LS picture, but not listed) and theMSRP went down ($28.000). The same goes for the XLS (32,200), which in Canada comesstandard withleather, BT, sunroof, RF sound, etc. No auto headlights listed though.
I’ll check them out next month when I’m due for the oil change.

 

Mitsu made at least a small effort to prevent paint chipping on my 08 ES. There is a 7 inch long by 5 inch high piece of clear film at the backbottom of the rear doors.I assume it was installed at the factory and not at the dealers.They did a good of installing it because I didn't even notice it until the 3rd or 4th time Iwashed the car.

 

i know that kit is avail. i have it on my outie but it did not come standard to the vehicle. i just added it as i was going through the accessory shopping list. but it does work well and on the diamond white, its very hard to see its presence. we will see over time if they have been able to dampen the yellowing effect over time, it takes on other applications i have seen.

 

I only hand wash my outtie (no car washes) and always make sure I wash very good where the film is to get any dirt that may build up along the edge of the film. As far as yellowing goes, as you said we will see what happens over time.

 

A small patch of clear film at the bottom of the rear doors came standard on my 07 Outlander. However, it turned out it was not enough to protect a much bigger surface (at least half of the rear door bulge). I ended up removing the stock patch and covering the whole door bulge with clear film (plus parts of the hood and front fenders). I also added the Japanese side door garnish and OEM mudguards.
With theredesigned sidegarnish, all that may beunnecessary.

 

I think the clear film is factory installed. I do not see it as an available accessory and I have read other posts re: stock see-through plastic film.

Are you positive that the redesigned side sill addresses the paint chipping or is this an assumption? I have just ordered a 2009 outlander and I wonder even with the redesigned sills if I should install mud guards? Any thoughts out there? I prefer the cleaner look without the mud guards.

 

got them on my 09. went a week without. when they added them it madeit look sharper. especially on the rally red. just my opinion though.