2002 Mitsubishi Diamante: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Revised front and rear styling and a new midyear model were the 2002 changes to Mitsubishi's flagship sedan. Diamante comes with a V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Side airbags are unavailable. ES and uplevel LS models were joined midyear by a new VR-X version with 210 hp vs. 205 in the other trim levels. Leather upholstery and power sunroof are among standard LS features, while the VR-X adds a sport-tuned suspension, white-faced instrumentation, and unique 2-tone leather upholstery. In addition to revised styling, Diamante gets new-design alloy wheels, with the ES's going from 15-inch diameter to 16, and the 16s on the LS and VR-X getting a chrome-look finish. Traction control is standard on the VR-X and available on the LS in an All Weather Package that also includes heated front seats and mirrors.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has two clear benchmarks; the Acura TL and Lexus ES 300. Both succeed in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 offers a little more luxury and TL, with it's Type-S, a bit more sport.

We Recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series as a rear-drive alternative. The "3" has enough bodystyles and engine choices to suit anyone. At the other end of the near-luxury spectrum is the posh and comfortable Buick Park Avenue--an old-school luxo-cruiser from Detroit.