MSRPs for the new 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander range from $19,990 up to $25,210. With comfortable seating capacity for seven and a better-than-class average warranty of 60 months or 60,000 miles, its offers prospective buyers an option to seriously consider. It comes in four trims and offers a choice of two engines: a 2.4L 168hp I4 and a 3.0L 220hp V6. People are bragging the 2.4L up because it pleases the efficiency-conscious by yielding 20/25 mpg city/highway and still produces appreciable power.

With the smaller engine choice comes a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that also acts to enhance fuel economy. The larger 3.0L engine is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission and an optional innovative 4WD system as well. Though, it is designed more for pavement driving than for off-road scenarios. The fold-down third row of seating maximizes cargo space and all models come with a nice array of standard safety features including 4-wheel independent suspension.

Fully-loaded models come with dual automatic climate control; seats trimmed in leather; keyless entry and even a compact 3rd-row entertainment system that features a 9-inch LCD screen with wireless remote and headphones. The 2.4L engine models have a tow rating of 1500 pounds while the 3.0L models can tow up to 2000 pounds. When the larger engine is combined with the 4WD system, towing rates increase to 3500 pounds due to the larger stock radiator.

Standard safety features include seat mounted front airbags, side impacts bags, roof mounted side curtain bags, head restraints, mandated frontal bags and child safety anchored seats. Active safety features include ABS braking, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), electronic stability and traction control systems, and tire pressure monitoring systems.

The upscale interior is very pleasing. It features restyled door panels and tightened gaps. Classy metallic trim and a more compact control console accentuate the entire cabin. The new look is more refined and graceful than the previous models. The cabin has also been quieted and made to come off as more mature in all respects. Competition for the Mitsubishi Outlander comes from the Mazda CX-7, the Honda CR-V, the Chevy Equinox and the Ford Escape.

Good value, impressive fuel economy, an extended standard warranty, a nice list of both standard and optional features and an elegant interior design are the highlights for the 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander. It's definitely worth your consideration.