It's unfortunate we've found so many ways to criticize our Mitsubishi Outlander GT (like this, and this, and this, and this), because it really is a great-looking sport-utility vehicle. It's a little old-school, but the clean design doesn't try too hard to be something it is not. It looks like the designers knew when to say "when." Can you think of another (in its class) that's as handsome? Chevrolet Equinox, maybe? The Ford Edge? Attractive, but a little polarizing, no?
Chief Road Test Editor, Chris Walton @ 17,289 miles
altimadude05 says:
12:09 PM, 05/16/11
I'd go with the Dodge Journey. It accomplishes the same things, but is in a more attractive package, to my eye. Especially the interior. The dash looks better, more storage spaces, and a more useful and comfortable third row seat.
As much as I like the clam-shell rear hatch of this car, I can't get over the bland dash and penalty-box rear seat.
powell_jr says:
04:28 PM, 05/16/11
CX-7 or CX-9
greenpony says:
04:41 PM, 05/16/11
Style-wise, I'd say the Mitsu is at the top of the heap. But if I was going for a modern crossover, I'm kind of partial to the restyled Grand Cherokee, despite its larger size. I see them everywhere (much more so than the TOTY-winning Explorer) and every time I think that Jeep has a hit on their hands. And that new 3.6L? That thing is potent!
cr_driver says:
05:59 PM, 05/16/11
Its a good looking vehicle, especially at the upper trim levels.
More so than those two you mentioned, Chris.
lug1115 says:
06:11 PM, 05/16/11
Big fan of the Kia Sorento. Really am impressed with the styling lately.
fushigi says:
06:10 AM, 05/17/11
I don't really have any of the issues that IL has had with their GT. The squeak went away, I did my BT pairing just once, and the other two issues I never had.
I still like mine. it makes for a good daily driver with enough power and reasonable fuel economy. The ride is firm but composed on the winter-worn Chicagoland streets.
The Equinox & Santa Fe were the leading contenders when I bought mine, and the 'nox would still be on my short list today.
The JGC is larger, weighs over 1000 pounds more, and gets worse fuel economy; I couldn't live with that. Besides, it's pricing (which can swell to over $40K) more or less starts where the Outlander's leaves off.
The Edge would be a closer competitor though again it runs several thou more when comparably equipped. At least it's economy is relatively good.
I just have not warmed to the Mazda's CX styling. That, and a Mazda I owned some time ago left a bad taste in my mouth (and dent in my wallet).
No V6 (or turbo 4) and IMO feminine styling cross the CR-V off my list. The RAV's rear end and interior kill it as an option.
The Forester Turbo is a possibility but the Outback is too expensive.
Lots of decent options, but my last car was a Mitsu and it had 152K trouble-free miles so I've confidence in the brand. They earned my repeat business.