Family resemblance is a source of pride for most people. Today’s automotive brands are no different.
Japanese automaker Mitsubishi drives into the next decade with styling changes that reflect a new Evolution.
The signature bold front fascia of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution sport sedan with its slim swept-back headlamps and large trapezoid grille is now carried to the brand’s sport utility division with the revamped styling of the 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander.
This year, a new GT trim level is added to Outlander’s ES, SE and XLS compact SUV lineup, each with choice of front- or all-wheel drive (AWD).
The 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander ES and SE models are powered by a 168 horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine managed by a continuously variable transmission. Fuel economy of an ES fitted with AWD reaches 23 mpg on the interstate.
Outlander XLS and GT are equipped with a 3.0-liter V-6 for 230 hp mated to a 6-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
For 2010, Outlander’s 6-speed transmission shifts into neutral when stopped longer than two seconds to conserve fuel. Lifting off the brake instantly returns the vehicle to “Drive” mode for a seamless start.
Outlander V-6 models with AWD average better than 17 mpg in combined city and highway use. The 6-cylinder musters a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
All models have quick steering communication with the road. Standard 19-inch wheels and tires on XLS and taut suspension of the GT model aid the crisp handling.
Inside, the driver is greeted by easy-to-read instrumentation. The technology driven navigation system utilizes a convenient touch screen, but requires multiple layers to achieve some routine functions.
Mitsubishi’s new FUSE voice-activated system is particularly useful in tight traffic conditions.
Seating has been expanded to seven people with the addition of a third row two-passenger jump-seat that can be folded into the rear floor pan when not in use.
Reaching that seat is a contortionist’s delight and is best reserved for nimble teens on cross-town trips. Cross-country is out of the question.
A dual flip-folding tailgate makes loading the cargo bay easier with a low lift over. The tailgate can hold up to 440 lbs.
Outlander’s interior accents favor plastic adornment with only a few soft-touch surfaces. The XLS and GT models raise the ante with padded leather door panels and instrument panel.
Now on sale, the base 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander ES comes nicely equipped at $20,840.
Additional content and upgrades bring the SE to $22,540 while the up-scale XLS model with a number of standard technological niceties comes priced at $24,990. Add $1400 across the board for AWD.
The GT runs $29,250 and includes all content upgrades along with hill ascent control, a Rockford Fosgate sound system, automatic xenon headlights and AWD with center locking differential.
