Mitsubishi Outlander
The Mitsubishi Outlander has two available engines: a 2.4L 4-cylinder making 168 hp, available in the ES and SE trim levels, and a 3.0L V6 making 230 hp in the GT. The 4-cylinder is mated to a continuously variable transmission, while the V6 uses a 6-speed Sportronic automatic transmission. The SE and GT also have standard magnesium paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
The ES, SE and GT all come standard with front-wheel drive, while the SE can also be outfitted with All-Wheel Control. The top-of-the-line Outlander GT also offers Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control System (S-AWC for short). The system detects traction of the front tires and directs power appropriately, improving both safety and performance. A dial allows the driver to select from three settings, depending on conditions: Tarmac, Snow and Lock.
The Outlander is loaded with safety features that make it a smart buy. Six airbags are standard, as are active stability control, traction control, tire pressure monitoring and pedestrian impact crumple zones. In addition to the S-AWC system, the GT also has standard Hill Start Assist.
As for the interior, the ES base model has fabric upholstery with 60/40 split folding rear seats, plus air conditioning, cruise control, power doors and windows and a 6-speaker CD/MP3 stereo. The SE upgrades include a leather-wrapped shift knob and multi-function steering wheel, leather bolsters with sport fabric seats, a 6-CD in-dash changer and Bluetooth.
The GT adds automatic climate control, HID headlamps, independently adjustable rear seats and rain-sensing wipers. The available Touring package includes heated seats, leather seating surfaces and trim, a Rockford Fosgate stereo with SIRIUS satellite radio, a sunroof and a rear camera system.
An available entertainment package includes a rear seat DVD player, a remote control and headphones.