Description

One of the best new crossovers on the market for 2007 comes from an automaker that, unfortunately, doesn't show up on many consumers' shopping lists. The vehicle is the redesigned Mitsubishi Outlander, which besides the name has almost nothing in common with its predecessor. Exterior styling has changed significantly, and the new look is more angular and dramatic. Styling has always been a strength of Mitsubishi's and this vehicle is no exception. There was no scrimping on the interior, which has high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. The company says the cabin was designed to look more like that of a sport sedan than a family SUV. The new model passes the CR-V in capacity and performance, though, as Mitsubishi aimed at the RAV4 instead. While the CR-V offers only a four-cylinder engine, the new Outlander comes only with a V-6. The RAV4's base engine is still a four-cylinder. Under the hood of all models is a 220-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 engine, which is connected to a new six-speed Sportronic automatic transmission. To help prevent rollovers, the new Outlander has standard electronic stability control and traction control, as do most of the newer SUVs. Also helping to keep the vehicle stable is an aluminum roof that weighs just 11 pounds, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity. A new multi-link rear suspension and the placement of the fuel tank and spare tire lower on the body also help lower the center of gravity.