Spending It
Mitsubishi SUV has stylish, sporty look
Pittsburgh Business Times - by Cathy Luebke
Compared with its cohorts from Japan, Mitsubishi sells only a handful of vehicles in North America -- less than 10,000 a month, for example, compared with Toyota's 150,000.
Scoring some yardage for the beleaguered carmaker is the redesigned Outlander, a compact sport utility vehicle with an optional third row. Early sales of the second-generation SUV show a big jump.
Gaining a few inches, classier surroundings and a new engine from its predecessor, the 2007 Outlander is a nice ride. However, the third row is reportedly tiny and unwieldy.
We tested the five-passenger version, however, where the seat configuration and operation were just fine. In fact, we found the new Outlander quite appealing with handy features, sporty handling and a stylish interior.
Mitsubishi officials say the exterior design with its "diamond cut" front end and flared fenders is a sign of things to come with future models. Indeed, the new Mitsubishi is modern and attractive, but it doesn't scream for attention.
Inside, the general impression is upscale. Look closely, however, and you will find some cheap plastic bits, but remember the Outlander starts at a reasonable $21,995 (freight included).
Front seats are roomy and comfy. Feedback from my passengers was mixed on the rear.
On the plus side, you can slide the bench back a few inches and recline it a bit. A taller passenger, however, complained the seat was too short, and despite sitting low didn't offer much headroom.
Third-row seats are best left for the kids and emergencies in most compact and midsize rigs, but the auto press has especially panned those in the Outlander, which is considerably shorter than most vehicles with a third-row option, including the Suzuki XL7.
You also have to upgrade to the top-line XLS model at $24,275 for seven-passenger seating.
Back on the plus side, mileage is pretty good for an SUV, topping out at 27 miles per gallon on the highway -- though still a ways from Toyota RAV4's 30.
Cargo space is decent as long as the third row is folded flat. A nice feature is the flip-down lip on the bottom of the tailgate, which allows for easy stowing of large items and a bench seat when needed.
Getting behind the wheel was a surprise, as we found it rather sporty. There is only one engine choice, a 3.0-liter, 220-horsepower V-6. The automatic six-speed transmission includes a manual mode.
Mitsubishi needs some winners, and the redesigned Outlander is a sign that engineers are designing some attractive products. But a more important new product is on the horizon for early 2007 with the redesigned Lancer sedan, which the company hopes can anchor the brand and get sales back on the rise.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Compact sport utility
Base price: $21,995
Mpg: 20/27, front drive; 19/26, all-wheel drive
Web site: www.mitsubishicars.com
Bottom line: Fun-to-drive rig with an upscale interior, but may not be the best choice if the third-row seating option is important to you
Cathy Luebke is Web editor of The Business Journal in Phoenix and can be reached at cluebke@bizjournals.com.
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