Our time with the 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS is winding down, and as this might've been my last drive in it, here are a few general parting thoughts.
A 200-mile roundtrip to San Diego at speeds between 70-80 mph produced adequate fuel economy of about 21 mpg. Not bad.
I still love the space shuttle styling. While the Montero Sport wasn't ugly, the Outlander certainly comes off as more modern and different enough from all those other CUVs with (am I cute or mean?) identity crises. Slender-five-spokes help, too.
I still love the "flappy-paddle gearbox" for those urgent occasions when I need a lower gear -- either to pass or to use the engine for slowing. It's especially useful because it works even when the transmission selector is in Drive.
The windshield wipers are in need of replacement.
I still don't care for the button-deficient infotainment system, although I can appreciate all its features.
I find the driver's seat/position exceptionally good (especially when compared to similarly equipped SUVs) for either long-haul drives or tripping though canyons.
The black interior is a black hole of interest, but on the plus side, it does provide a multi-faceted blank canvas for dusty-footed toddlers!
Speaking of 3-year olds, I appreciate it when the second-row seat backs recline just enough to match the angle of a child seat and keep it snugly in place.
With the exception of the totally useless third-row seat, I'd recommend somebody shopping in this segement to add the Outlander to his or her list of mid-sizers with V6 power and AWD. It's been a pleasant and occasionally rewarding vehicle to drive.
Chris Walton, Chief Road Test Editor @ 21,514 miles
Categories: 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS 4WD
daytona_500 says:
10:29 AM, 02/19/08
Awww, it's a shame to see the Outlander go. I've enjoyed reading about it.
So what crossover is going to replace it in the LT fleet? I'd like to see the new Dodge Journey take its place if possible.
daxtripper says:
10:41 AM, 02/19/08
I wouldn't.
1 year of...
- "The interior materials are terrible."
- "Why would you buy this over a Caravan?"
- "The Enclave could have a tire removed and there could be a dead racoon decomposing in the third row, and it would still be better than the Journey."
- "Don't stop believin'" or any number of other endless Steve Perry and Journey references.
No thank you. As for the Outlander, well said Mr. Walton.
altimadude00 says:
11:00 AM, 02/20/08
Dax....the Journey is made to replace the short length Caravan since they only make the Grands now.
But I agree with all that you said. Bleh.
bimmerjay says:
11:20 AM, 02/20/08
Please no Dodge Journey. I don't want to read about a mediocre, slapped-together crossover with LeBaron dash styling. The initial reviews have frankly said all anybody needs to know. Didn't we learn enough with the Compass?
zach101 says:
08:16 PM, 02/20/08
May I suggest a Rogue?
spotty21 says:
06:30 PM, 02/21/08
Id love to see the mazda cx-7 added to the fleet. its design and styling both inside and out have been widely praised, but the turbo engine has gotten mixed reviews. Is it all glory no guts? or is the criticism due to mazda's zoomy ads lending to overly high expectations? just a thought
daalen says:
10:10 AM, 03/ 1/08
How about the new Subaru Tribeca. Should be an interesting vehicle, had a nice facelift & upgraded engine and I don't believe there are any Subi's in the fleet currently.