Mitsubishi Outlander and Endeavor for 2003

Two completely new car-based SUVs that could be replacing the heavier off-road platforms of the Montero family. The Outlander and Endeavor follow the new SUV philosophy; engine power is balanced with fuel economy to be fuel-efficient and fun to drive. Under the hood of the Outlander is a 2.4-liter inline 4 cylinder with 140 horsepower and 157 lb-ft of torque to move it’s 3300lb. curb weight around town. The Endeavor packs a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 215 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque to move it’s 4000lbs.

Mitsubishi Outlander

All-wheel drive (AWD) versions of the Outlander and Endeavor handle well on dry pavement, in heavy rain, and light off-roading adventuring. Maneuverability is excellent and both vehicles have smooth highway ride, thanks to unibody construction and MacPherson struts. For economy, Outlanders and Endeavors average 20/17 city and 26/21 highway, respectively. Acceleration is slugest in both vehicles.

Mitsubishi Endeavor

Mitsubishi intended these two SUVs to be up-scale everyday family wagons. Elegant and functional styling runs throughout the interiors and exteriors of the Outlander and Endeavor. They have good ride comfort and advanced safety features, such as Dual airbags, a Refined Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) chassis (Outlander), side guard door beams, and tethers for child seats standard. Dual side-airbags are optional on both vehicles; anti-lock bakes are standard on AWD Endeavors and XLS Outlanders and optional on other models. Other standard features include power widows and locks, air conditioning, four 12-volt power outlets, cruise control, and excellent map lights. The Endeavor also has remote entry and some nice storage spots standard. Optional equipment includes security systems, leather interior, and more.

The Outlander is a great around town compact SUV. It’s maneuverable and veritable for active city dwellers with stop and go traffic. Although it’s not a deep snow or high water type SUV, the AWD models will help drivers conquer most inclement weather. Compare with Chrysler PT Cruiser and Honda CR-V.

Mitsubishi Endeavor Interior

The Endeavor is an excellent road vehicle for a family of four. Mom and Dad will enjoy ample leg, hip, and headroom in the front or back; and younger passengers will enjoy the view out the windows or the optional integrated television screen. The Endeavor is as good on long road trips, as it is in mall parking garages. Compare with Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander.

Highs: Interior room, versatility, styling, and sticker prices. The second-row of both vehicles folds down without always having to remove the headrests. The Endeavor has remote stereo controls on the backside of the stirring wheel to be right at he driver’s fingertips.

Lows: The Outlander needs 20 more horsepower to compete with the Honda CR-V and its driver seat needs more padding. The standard Sportronic™ Sequential-Shift 4-Speed Automatics are fun for about ten minutes. Mitsubishi needs to be looking into continuously variable transmissions (CVT), which could help fuel economy and power in both vehicles. Anti-lock bakes should be standard on all Outlander and Endeavor models.

Last Word: Mitsubishi loyalist will love both vehicles. The Outlander is bigger, less expensive, slower, and less efficient than the Honda CR-V. The Endeavor is average in a class of superstars.