The underdog
Mitsubishi arrived in Canada in 2003 after a long waiting period and many promises from MMC concerning their intentions to sell cars north of the American border. Since then, dealers began sprouting up here and there. But for the moment, Mitsubishi has failed to pierce the Quebec and Canadian market. Those that know the product well may ask themselves why this well-established car builder is having such difficulty. Let us keep in mind that being well established and successful can mutually exclude one another. It may be because of all the bad press this maker has received over the past few years concerning recalls, fraud (upper management) and the fact that it is the only non-profitable Japanese car manufacturer. Recently, they were once again saved from bankruptcy. Hopefully, the quality of the administration will reflect that of their products, that is to say: good.
The Endeavor was all-new in 2003 with the goal to replace the more rugged yet less appealing Montero Sport. The Endeavor has more of an urban conviction, whereas the Montero Sport was more of a real truck with a classic body-on-frame construction. Those that require real off-road capabilities can look into the Montero, the more luxurious version of the Montero Sport.
A base Endeavor LS is put on the market at $34,298 and can reach $43,848 in Limited guise. The tested unit was a Limited.
Exterior styling
The shape of the Endeavor is easily recognized as an SUV, however there
are plenty of subtle and not-so-subtle visual hints that distinguish it from the slew of trucks on our roads. The large flat fender flares and large body-side mouldings are the most prominent. I am glad that they are not tacked on à la Pontiac and that they are part of the doors. Its sizeable snout matches the rest of the truck's proportions and features. The styling is certainly more detailed than that of the Pilot's, however it does not emanate truck machismo like the 4Runner does.
The side-view mirrors are large and therefore improve lane-changing manoeuvres. The hatch has a difficult time getting all the way up on its own when opened. I am concerned that the struts are too weak for the heavy liftgate and that they will fail prematurely.
Interior styling
The front seats are very comfortable. They could use a little more support but are cozy nonetheless. The rear split-folding bench is also a good place to be on a trip. The leather is supple and should do well against the test
of time. The steering wheel is thick for a nice grip.
The design of the dash will not please everyone however it is above all functional and easy to use. The quality of the plastics is fine: it is well assembled and my favourite part, it is padded for that extra cushy feel. The small display screen is user friendly. However, it becomes very difficult to consult on sunny days. The bluish illumination of the gauges is a flattering reproduction of Volkswagen's much appreciated ambient lighting.
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The Endeavor was all-new in 2003 with the goal to replace the more rugged yet less appealing Montero Sport. The Endeavor has more of an urban conviction, whereas the Montero Sport was more of a real truck with a classic body-on-frame construction. Those that require real off-road capabilities can look into the Montero, the more luxurious version of the Montero Sport.
A base Endeavor LS is put on the market at $34,298 and can reach $43,848 in Limited guise. The tested unit was a Limited.
Exterior styling
The shape of the Endeavor is easily recognized as an SUV, however there
 |
The side-view mirrors are large and therefore improve lane-changing manoeuvres. The hatch has a difficult time getting all the way up on its own when opened. I am concerned that the struts are too weak for the heavy liftgate and that they will fail prematurely.
Interior styling
The front seats are very comfortable. They could use a little more support but are cozy nonetheless. The rear split-folding bench is also a good place to be on a trip. The leather is supple and should do well against the test
 |
The design of the dash will not please everyone however it is above all functional and easy to use. The quality of the plastics is fine: it is well assembled and my favourite part, it is padded for that extra cushy feel. The small display screen is user friendly. However, it becomes very difficult to consult on sunny days. The bluish illumination of the gauges is a flattering reproduction of Volkswagen's much appreciated ambient lighting.