MyCarlady brings you another test drive review on the new 2011 Outlander from Mitsubishi.
I drove the SE model with the 18″ alloy wheels, spoiler, fog-lamps and aluminum gas cap cover. The sharp lines and aggressive grill dominate the look of this small suv, now called a CUV, short for Crossover Utility Vehicle.
The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport comes in an ES and Se version, and an AWC (All-wheel Control=AWDrive) option too. All models share a 2.0L 4cyl 148hp 5 speed manual transmission or CVT version.
The high points to notice on this Outlander CUV are in the drive, which promises 25/31 MPG in the 2wd version, thanks to the energy drag efficient design, brake energy regeneration system, electric power steering and low-rolling resistance tires. Some readers and reviewers have commented that they didn’t like the braking, but I didn’t notice any significant different in the stopping distance or power on this small suv/cuv vs. the other models I have test-driven recently: Sportage, CRV, Forester etc.
Inside the cabin felt solid and roomy with good visibility in the rear, where others have had nasty blind-spots. This is in-part thanks to the little extra glass in the back and square rear-end.
Handling was responsive without being sloppy, with sharp turning radius and easy cornering in tight spaces. The road noise was tolerable, more noise from the tires than wind, and the usual CVT whine in 1st and 2nd, which went away once it kicked in over 40 mph. I didn’t feel any body roll on the turns, though the lightweight metal was evident when the wind came across the freeway on the open spans doing 60+mph., giving me a gentle push.
I found the missing Homelink annoying, but the push-button start is cool. Heated seats are available in the All-wheel, and yes, I use them here in LAS VEGAS in the winter!
All in all the combination of the warranty, standard features, fuel economy, package options: panorama roof, Rockford-Fosgate Sound system, Navigation and AWC make this a winner for Mitsubishi.
Prices start at $18495 -24995.00
PROS: Warranty, Style, Handling, Fuel Economy
CONS: No Leather interior, Homelink, Tire Noise
NOTE: This vehicle hasn’t been rated by NHTSA for 5-STAR safety yet…
If you need any car buying, selling, trading or financing assistance on any new or used vehicle, please do not hesitate to email me at sarahlee@mycarlady.com,mvides422@gmail.com,carlady@cox.net or give me a call; 702-521-7546 I’m here to help you with any of your automotive needs and advice is ALWAYS free.
Sarah Lee is an automotive executive with 22+ years of experience.
She writes about Cars, and is a staunch consumer advocate on car related subjects.
Her company: MY CARLADY is a personal car consultant service committed to helping you buy your next car and understand how to get the best deal on your next new or pre-owned vehicle. You can reach her at sarahlee@mycarlady.com,mvides422@gmail.com,carlady@cox.net
