Used 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander

While the previous-generation Mitsubishi Outlander never amounted to much more than basic transportation in the shape of an SUV, the 2008 model makes a compelling alternative to the category’s best. Completely new last year and based on the same platform that’s used for the Lancer sedan (and the hot-performing Evo sport variant), the sportier and more powerful Outlander is transformed most significantly by a huge leap in refinement. Combined with available features that include a hard drive-based navigation system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, 650-watt audio system, Bluetooth hands-free phone interface and keyless entry and start, it wouldn’t have been surprising if Mitsubishi had given its compact crossover a new name altogether. Like the latest Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Santa Fe, the Outlander also offers a small, "just in case" third-row seat.

While the sportiest crossovers on the market can actually encourage spirited driving, the 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander tends to simply tolerate such frivolity. Still, that’s enough to qualify it as livelier than most. Excellent steering and brake feel, a well-tuned suspension and supportive front seats combine to deliver a balance of comfort and confidence that will accommodate a range of driving styles. Even when we had to use all the available horsepower to do so, the Outlander never had trouble merging or passing. Not surprisingly, we had the most fun in the most expensive model — a four-wheel-drive XLS — which seems to handle corners more responsively than front-wheel-drive models and includes steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

By several measurements, the Outlander’s available third-row seating area is the smallest in the category. For a group trip that includes one or two kids, however, that extra capacity is enough to turn a two-car convoy into a single-vehicle jaunt. By collapsing flat into the cargo floor when not in use, it’s basically a "why not?" feature (and one that’s available only on the top-line XLS model). For their parts, second-row passengers in the XLS can slide and recline their way to maximum comfort. Well-bolstered front seats and a very modern instrument panel with a technical aspect to its appearance further the new Outlander’s more vigorous, even athletic demeanor.

Parked next to its predecessor, the second-generation Outlander commands a much larger presence than its increases of four inches in length and one inch in width would suggest. LED taillamps and available HID headlamps help communicate the new level of refinement, while an innovative "flap-fold" two-piece tailgate — with a bottom section that folds level with an already low load floor — provides for easy cargo loading and unloading. It also functions well as a bench or table for outdoor activities. The wheel lineup ranges from 16-inch steel wheels to 18-inch alloys, and top-line XLS models can be identified by silver-painted door handles, bumper extensions and roof rails, plus dual exhaust outlets.

30-Gigabyte Hard Drive
The Outlander’s hard drive-based navigation system is refreshingly quicker and more responsive than more common DVD-based units. It also allows you to store up to six gigabytes of digital music.

Keyless Entry and Start
The available FAST Key system lets you unlock and start the Outlander without even touching the key/transmitter.

Standard equipment included on the base Outlander ES includes air conditioning, power windows, locks and mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, engine immobilizer and an AM/FM/CD/CD-MP3 audio system. Standard safety equipment includes Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC), anti-lock brakes (ABS) and front, front-side and two-row side-curtain airbags. The LS trim adds the 3.0-liter V6 engine and a variety of other features. The top-line XLS trim adds 18-inch wheels, Sportronic shift paddles, automatic climate control, fog lights and Bluetooth.

The Outlander’s premium-like list of optional equipment is, for the most part, in packages, and includes leather seats, heated seats, a sunroof, Bluetooth hands-free phone interface, hard drive-based navigation and audio system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, FAST Key keyless entry and start, 650-Watt Rockford Fosgate audio system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and an auxiliary audio input.

The 3.0-liter V6 isn’t the most powerful in the category, but, by generating 90 percent of its peak torque at just 2,000 rpm, it’s responsive around town. The base 2.4-liter engine and CVT transmission help reduce the price, but seem to sacrifice a good deal of power for not much better fuel economy. Power is routed to the wheels via a manually selectable six-speed automatic transmission with available steering column-mounted paddle shifters. The Outlander is available in front-wheel drive or three-mode four-wheel drive (FWD, 4WD Auto, 4WD Lock), both with electronic traction control. Towing capacity is rated at up to 3,500 pounds.

2.4-liter in-line four
168 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
167 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/25 (2WD), 20/25 (4WD)

3.0-liter V6
220 horsepower @ 6250 rpm
204 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25 (2WD), 17/24 (4WD)