The VR-4 is an enjoyable machine to drive. For one thing, it's quick. Mitsubishi promised a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.6 seconds. More surprising, the car is so stable and quiet that speed becomes deceptive; it's difficult to tell just how fast you're traveling. Its 4-wheel steering and all-wheel drive blend for secure, precise cornering. Brakes are great too, bringing the VR-4 to a halt with reassuring swiftness and terrific poise. Except for slightly vague steering (not true of the front-drive SL) and a voracious appetite for fuel, the 3000GT is an impressive, if costly, machine. An SL is quick enough for most folks and has most of the VR-4's admirable qualities. Cockpits are snug and low, but the back seat is strictly for show. Low-slung styling makes entry and exit a chore, too. Otherwise, the cabin is top-notch, with supportive seats, nicely spaced controls, and clear, properly placed gauges. On the downside, the liquid crystal readout for the automatic climate system, standard on SL and VR-4, is difficult to decipher and has too little contrast for easy viewing in daylight. Also, the stereo unit is mounted too low and has tiny controls.

Value for the Money
A VR-4 delivers outstanding performance and all-wheel-drive action, but you pay a penalty in its stiff ride, as well as the high price. Base and SL models are more reasonable alternatives.