2011 Mitsubishi Endeavor

2011′s  Mitsubishi Endeavor is a continuation in effort of the 2010 version.

A middle-sized crossover SUV, the Endeavor puts superior styling and lots of room together in a beautiful blend. Just like other crossovers, the Endeavor has a lofty seating position as well as hauling and towing ability of a typical SUV but with smoother ride and great fuel economy.

The downside however is that being a street focused SUV, it lacks the might of the truck-based SUV in off-road and heavy towing abilities. For buyers looking to spend their money in return for an SUV they can rely on for those off-road excursions, this may not be the ideal choice. Alternatives for such abound in this class of mid-sized crossover SUVs.

The Endeavor won the Edmund’s comparison test with its charming looks, smart handling and torque filled engine performance. Car enthusiasts have however said that it has styling issues in the cabin with disappointing material choices.

Today, the Endeavor has undergone further improvements and continues to draw attention even though it doesn’t have a 3rd row seat (which all competitors in this class have). It may also be outclassed in the area of engine power with transmission and competitiveness in features.

The Mitsubishi Endeavor borrows its structuring from the Mitsubishi Eclipse coupe and Galant sedan. Two trim levels exist namely the LS and SE, which are both powered by a V6, 3.8-literengine providing 225 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. Reviewers like the low grunt of the engine but criticize the poor fuel economy of a paltry 15-city mpg and 21-highway mpg (and all-wheel drive versions suffering a highway value of 19).

The transmission is an  automatic four-speed with a stylish manual shift mode standard for all trims. The endeavor earned top marks in tests carried out to determine its crashworthiness. These tests were performed by the Highway Safety Testing Institute as well as government testing facilities.

Front-wheel drive is the standard although AWD is available for the SE trim alone. Notable standard features include traction control, stability control, side-curtain air bags, standard roll over-sensing and a monitoring system for tire-pressure.

With its failings as a midsized crossover SUV, the Endeavor has been said to give latitude to buyers to look at the other great alternatives available in this class. Notably, Mitsubishi’s own Outlander is such an alternative.

The interior of the LS trim features full power accessories, Bluetooth connectivity, CD player air-conditioning. The SE trim features added options such as leather upholstery, navigation system with rearview camera, high-end audio with satellite radio, heated seats and sunroof. Other high-end features like panoramic sunroof, keyless start and rear entertainment system are available. The cargo capacity for this SUV is not impressive. With its meager 76.4 cubic feet and absence of a third row seat reduce its appeal for buyers who would otherwise view the Mitsubishi Endeavor as a family car.

The price of this SUV ranges between $28,299 and $33,599 which if one went with the typical durability of Mitsubishi Endeavor models is quite a sensible figure.