Acceleration

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	4.6

No opportunity yet to test with 2WD. Outlander's V6 moves AWD versions with more than enough verve for most driving conditions, though it could use more power for ideal highway passing response. Transmission prompt, responsive. Manual shifting via floorshifter or XLS's steering wheel paddles particularly useful.

Fuel Economy

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	5

Test AWD averaged 17.1 mpg. Outlander uses regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	5

Outlander's relatively long wheelbase helps iron out most road imperfections. Little perceptible difference in bump absorption between models with 16- and 18-inch tires.

Steering/Handling/Braking

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	6	4.8

Quick and communicative steering feel. Moderate body lean in turns. XLS models slightly sharper overall thanks to standard 18-inch tires.

Quietness

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	4	4.5

Wind, road noise well-dampened. Biggest noise culprit is engine, which drones during acceleration and cruising. Coarse-surface tire thrum noticed but not annoying, is less prevalent with LS than XLS. Test AWD LS suffered from a number of minor creaks and groans.

Controls

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	4	5.6

Easy-read gauges, aided by handy information display between speedometer and tachometer. Climate controls mounted too low for easy access while driving. Navigation system's hard drive for music files a plus for audiophiles. Navigation has touch screen, but it absorbs too many audio functions and is complicated to use. Cabin has few padded surfaces, many plastic panels that feel thin, hollow to the touch.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	6	6.1

Plentiful head and leg room. Seats generally comfortable, though some occupants may want more thigh support. Tall 3rd-row seatbacks partially block view astern. Fine visibility otherwise.

Room/Comfort (rear)

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	4	4.8

Good head room. Generous 2nd-row leg room in five-seat ES, LS thanks to long seat tracks; XLS's 2nd row doesn't slide back as far, cramping knee space. Second-row tumbles forward, easing access to 3rd row. But 3rd row suitable only for kids, and they will ride in uncomfortable knees-up position on a cushion that uses webbed hammock type material rather than conventional padding.

Cargo Room

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	7.2

Decent cargo room behind 3rd row. Both 2nd- and 3rd-row seats fold easily; 2nd row is split 60/40 and it folds to create a flat load floor. Outlander's liftgate has opening glass and a clamshell design that creates a handy drop-down tailgate section that can hold up to 400 lb. Good interior storage with nicely sized glovebox, center console.

Value within Class

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	4	5.5

This new compact SUV is worth a look, but be sure to scout the competition as well. Outlander's virtues include a responsive transmission and flexible cargo accommodations. Among its vices are a raucous engine, subpar interior materials, and the Mitsubishi brand's record of weak resale values.

Total Score

AWD LS	AWD XLS w/nav. sys.	Class Average
53	50	53.1

Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		36
Average Score		53
High Score		60