Vehicle type: Mid-size SUV
Price Range: $25,597-$33,197

Pros:
Styling
Handling
Ride
Build quality

Cons:
Needs more power

Overview:

The new Endeavor is Mitsubishi’s answer to the growing ‘crossover’ segment of car based Sport Utility Vehicles like the Honda Pilot. In fact, in terms of cost and size, it’s almost a dead ringer for the Pilot and just slightly larger than a Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Endeavor is the first Mitsubishi entirely designed and built in America. Available in FWD or fulltime AWD the Endeavor comes in 3 trim levels, LS, XLS and Limited with prices starting at $25,597. Bold new styling and car-like handling and ride top the list of positives.

Under the hood:

Power comes from a single overhead cam 24 valve 3.8 liter V6. The cast iron block aluminum head engine produces 215 horsepower and 250 Ft. lbs of torque. The 4-speed automatic features ‘Sport-Tronic’ allowing for ‘Manu-matic’ shifting if desired. This sporty feature makes the most of engine power by allowing the driver to hold the Endeavor in a lower gear for more acceleration. I suspect this engine may handle the front-wheel drive Endeavor well but add in another 400 lbs for the AWD version and it’s a little under-powered. Vehicle weight ranges from around 3800 to 4200 lbs depending on options. Compared to the Pilot, the Endeavor has a little less power (215 vs 240) but it’s 250 ft. lbs. of torque betters the Pilot’s 242 ft lbs. I’m driving a Pilot now so we’ll see how they compare. The engine is a smooth runner and the tranny shifts smoothly. Estimated fuel economy is 17/21 MPG. The AWD system splits power 50/50 front to rear with a viscous coupling supplying power where needed under adverse conditions.

Behind the wheel:

The Endeavor is a joy to drive. It will not take long to win you over. Driving position is nearly ideal with an excellent view out. Tilt steering and power seats (in the XLS and Limited) contribute to driver comfort as do the excellent front seats. Our Endeavor had the ‘Cold Weather’ package with heated front seats and mirrors. The ‘Touring’ package adds leather seats. Rear seating is excellent with more legroom than a Grand Cherokee. Home center types will be able to fit a 4X8 sheet of plywood in the Endeavor.

Fully independent front and rear suspension contribute to a car-like ride and handling is excellent thanks in part to rack and pinion steering. The ride is supple absorbing bumps well with minimal body roll in the corners. It’s about as sporty as you’ll find in this class of vehicle. 4 wheel disc brakes (in the XLS and limited) with ABS provide sure smooth stops. Large 17” wheels are standard on all trim lines. Towing is rated at 3500 lbs maximum with AWD.

Interior:

It’s quiet on the inside unless you opt. for the 315 watt Infinity sound system. Standard on the ‘Limited’ this awesome system features 7 speakers and a 6 disc CD changer. It’s all housed in a large brushed aluminum center console. All controls are large and logically laid out. This was a welcome site after recently driving a 60K ‘Luxury’ SUV with all it’s complicated and poorly arranged switches. A center screen houses a compass and outside temp gauge. Word is a DVD entertainment system with Navigation and Satellite radio will soon be available. Check with your dealer for details. Dual front airbags are standard with side air bags optional. The interior is tastefully done and a cool looking color coordinated seat and door panel interior is available. Our tester didn’t have this but I’ve seen pictures and it looks stunning.

Odds and ends:

Our Endeavor had a card in the glove box which stated the vehicle was a ‘hand built prototype’ and something to the effect that ‘Not all equipment may match production vehicles’ All I can say is that this was the best assembled Mitsubishi I’ve yet encountered. It was tight and rattle free with excellent fit and finish. The pearl white paint was flawless and very ‘upscale’ in appearance. If the production models are built this well they will be the best Mitsubishi’s ever. The bold styling drew favorable comments from friends and family.

Conclusion:

If you are looking for a solid fun to drive car-like SUV drive the Endeavor before you buy. More power would be welcome but for most driving situations it’s not an issue. I expect the Endeavor will be a top seller for Mitsubishi.