2003 Mitsubishi Outlander Review

Mitsubishi joins the fast-growing entry-level segment of the sport-utility market with its distinctive-looking new compact Outlander. The carlike-but-utilitarian 2003 Outlander is reminiscent of the 1992-94 Mitsubishi Expo LRV (Light Recreational Vehicle) multipurpose vehicle, which was slightly ahead of its time. The Outlander competes with such formidable sport-utes as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape and Subaru Forester. The Outlander has base prices ranging from $17,997 to $20,790 and comes with either front- or all-wheel drive. It's based on Mitsubishi's new Lancer sedan, with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder single-overhead-camshaft engine from the automaker's Eclipse and Galant models.

The 140-horsepower engine provides decent acceleration in town but feels lazy above 55 mph--especially if the Outlander is in heavier all-wheel-drive form. Opt for the front-drive version for the best acceleration because it's 221 pounds lighter at 3,240 pounds. The tachometer registers a rather high 3,000 rpm at 70 mph, but the Outlander is a quiet, generally relaxed highway cruiser. No manual gearbox is offered, but the engine works with a responsive four-speed automatic transmission that has an easily used manual shift feature.

Estimated fuel economy is competitive with rivals: 21 mpg and 26 on the highway with front-drive and 20 and 25 with all-wheel drive. The fuel tank holds 15.7 gallons, and only 87-octane fuel is required. A gasoline-cap tether is a thoughtful touch, preventing a driver from filling up and accidentally leaving the gasoline cap atop a gas pump. The Outlander is about as wide as most compact sport-utes, but is longer than most at 179.1 inches. It's also lower, at 63.2 inches, than some such vehicles for almost carlike entry and exit. The front seat's hip point is 26 inches from the ground so you can get in and out without requiring any unnatural shifting or lowering of hips. Once inside, occupants sit rather high.

The first thing you notice about the Outlander is its aggressive-looking split grille. That item helps distinguish it from other compact sport-utilities, which mostly have rather bland styling. The Outlander's front styling might be controversial because it looks radical for a sport-ute, but nobody should object to the Lexus RX 300-like jeweled taillights. Despite its adventuresome name, the Outlander is designed to be mostly an on-road vehicle. It comes with either front- or all-wheel drive, but there is no low-range gearing for tough off-road use. Base LS and upscale XLS trim levels are offered, and both are well-equipped and have a high-quality feel. The "touch points'' (fabric and controls) feel as if from a costlier vehicle.

Even the LS has standard air conditioning, AM/FM/CD sound system, cruise control and split/fold-down rear seatback. It also has a rear defroster, power windows, door locks and mirrors and dual-folding outside power mirrors. The XLS adds special alloy wheels, upgraded seat fabric, tubular roof rails, privacy glass, large rear spoiler with stoplight, stylish white-faced gauges and color-keyed outside mirrors. It also has fog lights and more distinctive taillights. Anti-lock brakes with an electronic brake force distribution system for surer stops are optional for the XLS. So are front-side air bags. Other XLS options include a sunroof, heated leather seats and a high-powered sound system.

LS options include keyless entry, privacy glass and special alloy wheels. Steering is quick. And handling is good because all Outlander models have a stiff structure, large 16-inch wheels and an all-independent suspension with front/rear anti-sway bars. The long 103.3-inch wheelbase and compliant suspension provide a ride that's so smooth one almost expects handling to be sloppy. The brake pedal feels too soft, but has a comfortably progressive action. The nicely designed outside door handles and the low step-in provide easy entry. Front seats are supportive, and the steering column is height-adjustable.

There's plenty of room for four tall adults. The especially roomy rear seat has a center area soft enough to comfortably accommodate a middle occupant--not the case with many sport-utes. Controls for the climate control system are large but somewhat notchy. Radio controls are small but mounted high on the dashboard, which contains a classy looking analog clock. Gauges are small but have a custom-vehicle appearance. The front console contains above-average cupholders, and there's a handy compartment for tollway change.

Power window controls are a snap to quickly reach on the driver's door, but the plastic inside door handles feel marginal. Front shoulder belts are height-adjustable, and the XLS has see-through headrests. The cargo area has a rather high opening and only average cargo capacity. Folding the split 60/40 rear seatbacks forward increases cargo capacity, but the Outlander still doesn't shine in the cargo hauling area--partly because the multilink rear suspension takes up space. There's an underfloor storage bin at the rear, but it's just a few inches deep. While it's no hot rod, the Outlander's distinctive appearance and user-friendly design should be appealing to a good number of compact sport-utility buyers.

2003 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER

Prices:
$17,997-$20,790
Likes:
Carlike. Roomy. Smooth ride. Refined.
Dislikes:
Lazy highway acceleration. Controversial front styling.