While the major automakers slug it out in the full size truck market for global supremacy, a smaller but equally important battle is taking place for the hearts and dollars of the American driver in the entry-level SUV market. Formally a backwater of SUV wanna-bes and warmed- over concepts from years gone-by, hard dollars and dedicated engineering talent have been aimed at this market in order to carve out a dominant market position.Mitsubishi Motors, one of the oldest second tier Japanese automakers in the U.S. marketplace is moving aggressively to gain top-of-mind recognition and market share with the first of an onslaught of new products under its “Project America” initiative. The automaker is investing $1.6 billion in the American market — product, plant and equipment — in order to develop a stream of new products that will make consumers sit up and take notice.The first product born of this project is the Mitsubishi Outlander — based on the rally-tested Lancer platform. Originally launched as the Airtek in Japan, the SUV capitalizes on the sound design of the Lancer platform — long wheelbase and excellent road manners combined with a stylish, aggressive and imposing exterior that says ‘handsome,’ not ‘cute.’Built at the automaker’s assembly plant in Kurashiki, Japan, the Outlander is available in front- and all-wheel drive configurations and LS and XLS trim levels. The SUV is powered by the large tried-and-true 2.4L four-cylinder engine. A four-speed automatic transmission is the gearbox of choice which features a manual shift mode.

On the road, the Outlander delivers impressive performance, regardless of road condition. In fact, the engine is so strong, I checked under the hood to make sure it was not a six cylinder by mistake!

Robust unibody construction forms a rigid base for the suspension hardware. Mitsubishi employs a four-wheel independent setup for the Outlander, with MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link configuration with coil springs in the rear. Yokohama Geolander G035 P225/60HR16 tires works with the suspension to keep the package on the ground.

Inside the cabin, Mitsubishi engineers had a field day in developing a user-friendly environment. The modern dashboard and instrument cluster are clean and uncluttered — easy to read and easy to use. The cabin is airy and roomy. Five adults would find the Outlander a very friendly place to spend long road trips.

The 60/40 split rear seat folds flat — with one hand! No flip and fold here — no headrests to remove — release the seat and fold. The rear cargo cover has three positions and when not in use, can be conveniently stowed under the cargo floor. If versatility is desired, without wanting a minivan or conventional SUV, consider the Mitsubishi Outlander.

Quick Vehicle Stats
Wheelbase: 103.3; overall length: 179.1; width: 68.9; height: 66.3 — measurements in inches
Engine: 4G64 - 2.4L SOHC 16-valve four-cylinder — 140 hp at 5,000 rpm and 157 lbs-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm
Transmission: F4A42/W4A42 — Four-speed automatic with Sportronic manual mode
EPA Fuel Economy: 21 city/26 highway (2WD); 20 city/25 highway (4WD) - regular unleaded.
Cargo Capacity: 24.4 cu. ft. — 2nd row seats up; 60.3 cu. ft. — 2nd row seats folded flat
Maximum Payload: 905 pounds
Towing Capacity: 1,500 pounds

Safety Features
Auto-off headlights, front airbags, tubular steel side-guard door beams, head impact protection and power door locks with security logic. XLS adds remote keyless entry. Optional safety equipment includes front seat mounted side-impact airbags and four wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution.

Warranty
Basic: 3 year/36,000 miles
Powertrain: 5 year/60,000 miles
Corrosion: 7 years/100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance: 3 years/36,000 miles 24-hour

Pricing
The base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV starts from $17,997 for the LS 2WD up to $20,790 for the XLS AWD. Destination charge adds $580.

As Tested
2003 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS AWD $20,790
Exterior color: Diamond White Pearl
Interior color: Sandblast
Freight 580
Anti-lock brakes 500
Sun & Sound Package 1,150
Luxury Package 1,450
Dealer Added Equipment:
Fender Flares 895

Total $25,365
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