First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT 2010

First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT 2010



Its a nice attempt, but I feel that Mitsubishi can do so much better than a warmed over look from one of their popular cars. Bring back the spirit of the original Montero and better yet the Pajero. Come on guy!The fuel economy is actually slightly better than other AWD vehicles in its class. BTW, premium isn't required. It is recommended for optimal performance.Speaking of fast, Mitsubishi upped the compression ratio of the Outlander's 3.0-liter V6 from 9.0:1 to 10.5:1. This change eeks out an additional ten horsepower (230 hp total) and 11 lb-ft torque (215 lb-ft total). A BMW X6 M it's not, but the revised engine has enough gumption to make a winding mountain road enjoyable. Even better is the borrowed-from-the-Ralliart dual-clutch transmission (TC-SST) six-speed Sportronic transmission that not only provides crisp, surefire downshifts (and upshifts), but allowed us to hardly touch the brakes on our 100-mile mountain adventure. We just let the motor do all the heavy lifting. That said, the Outlander GT could use more brakes.
We're big fans of certain mid-cycle refrshes (the 2010 Mustang springs to mind). We're equally big fans of vehicles that err on the side of sport. Mitsubishi then has made us sit up and take notice of a type of vehicle we usually just gloss over. Ideal? Not quite. For instance, the transmission has three modes (Normal, Snow and Lock), and even in the supposedly hardcore "Lock" setting we managed to get the Outlander GT stuck in a foot of sand (don't ask). But while running around like a wannabe rally driver in loose gravel the Outlander did just fine. Until we had to slam on the brakes, which, again, could use some work. First Drive: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT 2010
However, we have the sneaking suspicion that most Outlander GT owners have never even heard of Travis Pastrana, let alone engage in a pathetic attempt to imitate him. And while these same folks probably aren't shopping CUVs for their sporty nature, the sure footed handling will keep both them and their loved ones safe. Bottom line: those looking to get into vehicles like the Toyota Highlander or Ford Edge would be doing themselves a favor by checking out the 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT. New nose not withstanding, it really does stand out from the crowd.


Download More >>>