MotorMouths

The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a five-seat crossover targeted at first-time buyers who want style with their utility, and a starting price that undercuts most of the segment.

The Outlander is an excellent all-around SUV, with lots of passenger and cargo room, nice amenities, plus in GT trim it has added capability to pull you through all kinds of bad weather conditions safely and securely.

The Outlander GT isn’t a driver’s crossover, but its exterior remains attractive and its interior is a triumph of packaging. Add in a relatively low sticker price and it deserves more attention than it has been receiving.

Dynamics notwithstanding, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport figures to be an attractive buy.

With assertive sheet metal and sharp handling, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is the edgy alternative to the typical compact crossover.

While likely the best-handling crossover in its class, with cabin tech that doesn’t disappoint, the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander GT has much room for improvement—particularly in the engine bay.

The 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.

Nice to see Mitsubishi still producing vehicles that are a ball, but you’d have to be blind to a lot of annoyances, faults and flaws — and be smitten by driving dynamics — to settle on the Outlander GT as your first choice.