By James Bergeron
Day 1:
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Another crossover to review this week; this is a much smaller one than last week’s and from a Japanese manufacturer. It’s the new-for-2007 Mitsubishi Outlander, ready to compete against its Japanese rivals the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan X-Trail. Some other competitors for the Outlander include Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Compass / Patriot and, perhaps, the Pontiac Torrent and its derivatives. This market is huge in North America at the moment with some good competition.
Starting at only $25,498 the Outlander certainly is well priced for this market. It’s also well-equipped with a huge list of standard features, including: a 220hp V6 engine, 6-Speed Sportronic Automatic Transmission, Cruise Control, Anti-Lock Braking system (ABS) with EBD and Air Conditioning. Some other features include: Advanced Dual Stage Front and Side Airbags, Power Windows/Locks and Remote Keyless Entry — an impressive list for the money, no question.
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My test model is an LS 4WD model, which adds an electronically controlled 4WD system to the base LS. Also added to my tester is the convenience package — which, for only $1,250, adds a few more goodies to taste. Some of the more notables are the 16-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shiftknob, tonneau cargo cover and steering wheel-mounted Bluetooth cellular phone “ready” switches.
This brings the grand total of my tester to $29,843 including freight and PDI charges. Based on the little time I have had with the Outlander so far, it certainly seems to be very well-priced for the included features.
The shocker of the day for me? Opening the rear hatch to put down my camera and lunch bag. The cargo space in the back of the Outlander is incredible. I’ll certainly get the measuring tape out tomorrow — when it warms up and the rain stops. At first glance, the rear looks large enough to fit a four by eight foot sheet of material. I’ll report back with those findings tomorrow.
2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
MSRP as tested: $29,843
For more information on Mitsubishi and the Outlander visit Mitsubishi Canada
