2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor Review discusses a competent SUV.

Friday, July 25, 2008

2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor Review

The Endeavor is a Small CUV that debuted in 2004. It's based on the same platform as the Galant, and is built in Normal, Illinois. It has taken the place of the Montero, which ended its run in 2006.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Mitsubishi Endeavor combines SUV utility with a good combination of comfort and car-like handling. It gives you a commanding view, as well as a commanding grip, on the road. The Endeavor combines control and power into an attractive package. But, it does trail some competitors in terms of gas mileage, and tops some in price.

What's New For 2008:

Skid control and traction control are now standard. The SE now features a two-tone interior. The door trim has also been revised.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Endeavor 3 stars for dependability. Problems with the Endeavor include steering column noise, water leaks, difficult driver seat adjustment and failed blower motors. No recalls have been issued. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts five years or 60,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Government crash test scores are not available. In IIHS tests, it earned "Good" for the front and side, and "Poor" for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, skid control and traction control come standard. Stability control is standard on AWD models.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Solid performance and handling
+ Roomy
+ Great warranty

Cons
- Pricey in its class
- AWD not standard
- No third row

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Mazda Tribute Grand Touring costs a thousand less, has AWD, a CD changer, leather seats, and a moonroof, but has less horsepower and towing capacity. The Nissan Murano cost about the same amount, has strong safety scores and get 3 more miles per gallon, but doesn't have as long of a warranty. The Subaru Forester has AWD, a CD changer, leather, moonroof and gets up to 4 more miles per gallon in the city. But, it lacks traction control, an automatic transmission and can't tow as much.

What Others Are Saying:

"The Endeavor is distinctive enough that it won't be mistaken for a sport-ute from mainstream automakers such as Toyota, Honda, Ford or General Motors. It doesn't have the resale value of most rivals, but that might change if Mitsubishi gains momentum." - Chicago Sun-Times

"The only thing wrong with the 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor is the price, and so far, the marketplace doesn't even object to that." - USA TODAY

"Endeavor is one vehicle that performed exactly the way we expected it to, with no surprises. In a sense, that's good, because on longer trips and on trips with a variety of road and traffic conditions, you don't want surprises. In another sense, though, it's tough, because it's more difficult to write about it." - The Family Car

Read more about the 2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor at the Mitsubishi manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, March 5, 2008 - Email to a friend

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