Forum member Just Bob does own one...
Indeed Bob has the previous generation Outlander which is a totally different car.
I own a 2007 Outlander LS 4WD. It has a different power train though - V6, 6AT, which I think it makes a whole lot of a difference.
I still like the car after over 2 1/2 years of trouble free ownership and I would buy it again today (still there is no better alternative on the market for my wants & needs). From what I get from the Outlander owners community, there are no major issues with this car.
The only issue any owner of 07-08 models should be aware of is that there is a significant
potential for paint chipping on the rear doors bulge and the bottom of the rear and front doors due to the road derbies thrown into those areas by the front wheels. The mudguards will help to contain the exposed areas, but do not eliminate the problem. However, I've seen many clean 2007 Outlanders so I guess is depends on the type of road you drive on and perhaps your luck. I would recommend to have the whole rear door bulge covered with 3M clear film (about $60 cost). If you buy used, thoroughly check that area to assess if it's damaged or not and how severe the damage is.
I would also suggest to go for the V6/6AT combo since the fuel savings are minor IMO over the I4/CVT (1.x L/100km), but you gain significant power and a smooth and responsive tranny. Overall, a much better ride. I've seen 7.9 L/100 Km on the highway on one occasion, but mid 8s is easily within reach on longer highway drives if you drive smoothly and you don't have adverse environment conditions. I'm currently monitoring the fuel economy over one year period and I think I will end up just above 11L/100km. I'll have the final reading next week (Oct 9).
On 2007 LS models, they have for/aft sliding rear seats which have been discontinued on the base models after 07 MY. However, Mitsu improved the door panels for 08 MY on all trims.
Other highlights: excellent cargo and passenger space - top of the class, small turning radius - best in the class IIRC, good power (V6), good handling, good 4WD for all-weather conditions (with proper tires of course), good equipment level even in mid-trim, good value for the buck, very reliable. On the subjective note, the best looking compact SUV on the market today (especially the XLS).
On the negative side, I think the build quality is average, but I would note that there are no major issue; just many small details which I would not comment on here, unless you really what to know my little nit picking complaints.
Also, some say they could not find a comfortable driving position, but I don't have that problem. However, one shortcoming of the car is that it doesn't have telescopic steering wheel. Perhaps this would've helped more people to sit conformable in the car, but not much you could do about it.
My 2 cents only ... If you have specific questions, feel free to ask.
