Pretty Good Alternative to Honda & Toyota

The 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander model that I test drove was a two wheel drive automatic SE model. While it competes with the Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4, and domestics like the Ford Escape, it kind of gets lost in the shuffle. This may be a good thing as the Outlander stands out among the typical small SUV's. It certainly looks the part of a small sporty SUV, with a lean and focused stance that stands apart from the safe inoffensive appearance of the other small SUVs. Inside the theme continues with a carbon fiber-like band running across the top of the dashboard, complete with a retro-looking analog clock. Some interior pieces like the HVAC knobs, and vents felt a little flimsy however. The stereo by Infinity/Mitsubishi sounded decent but lacked a little clarity on the high end, but did have good bass. It slso had good ergonomics, and MP3 CD compatibility, although it's a bit disappointing that neither satellite radio compatibility nor MP3 player inputs is available.

The front seats were pretty supportive, and the cloth seats were grippy. The back seats however felt too low to the floor, and the cushions felt a bit lumpy. While there was decent space in the back seat, it wasn't the best seating position I have ever experienced. The cargo area was again on par with the Outlander's main competitors, and was easily expanded by lowering the back seats. If that wasn't enough, the Outlander SE and Limited came with a very attractive and functional roof rack, composed of brushed steel tubes.

Once on the road, the engine proved entirely adequate if not slightly down on power. The 2.4 liter four cylinder engine makes power to match the RAV4 and the CRV (160 hp), it felt a little less peppy than its competitors. Under full acceleration, the quite engine turns loud, and not in a sporty way either. It does however return decent fuel economy at 22 city, and 26 highway (YMMV of course).

The ride is smooth and controlled on smooth roads, but on imperfect roads, the Outlander transmits some harshness into the cabin, but it is be and large a comfortable cruiser. It handles well considering it's height, but lean is noticable in sharp corners. But in everyday driving, what you have is a tall car, with excellent visibility, and high riding position.

The Mitsubishi Outlander offers something Honda and Toyota don't offer at all: a long warranty. Mitsubishi's warranty is five years/60k miles! While not as long as Hyundai or Kia, it's much longer than Honda and Toyota's three year warranty.

The Outlander is a good alternative to the typical, plain boring mini SUV, it's handsome, well made, and less expensive than it's competition, and it's also well made and was named as one of Consumer Reports most reliable small SUV. If you can look past some minor foibles, the Outlander is a very attractive little SUV.