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2011 Mitsubishi RVR GT 4WD Review (video)

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Justin Pritchard
A great overall value, despite a few weaknesses
Mitsubishi's sophisticated All Wheel Control (AWC) all-wheel drive system was on board, actively driving all four wheels and networking with various vehicle systems to ensure confident traction and pleasing performance on any surface. Even on some moderate trails, there was plenty of grip. Ground clearance, agility and light weight help RVR feel well suited to some work on the road less travelled, as needed.

Best of all, drivers can select between various four-wheel drive modes and even turn the system off, effectively running the RVR as a more fuel-efficient 2WD when all four wheels needn't be powered.

2011 Mitsubishi RVR GT 4WD interior
Control layout is simple, and the tester was equipped generously with Bluetooth. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)

A highway drive, 12 hours later...
Test drivers hitting the highway will likely appreciate a slightly sporty steering feel, and average levels of wind and road noise. Some will find the suspension a touch stiff, but things are mainly comfortable and well sorted out in the ride department. Highway cruising mileage at a good clip over the course of some 12 hours saw my fuel consumption land around 9 L/100km. That's respectable for a versatile little four-wheel driver.

On board
The RVR's cabin hits the mark on most levels, but misses it on a few. The good news? RVR has great-looking instruments, feels roomier than it looks, has decent levels of at-hand storage, and even allows occupants to take in the rays with a gigantic glass roof.

Control layout is simple, and the tester was equipped generously with Bluetooth, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, an intelligent key system with push-button start, and even a headlight levelling switch. Most of the cabin looks upscale and modern - albeit for the old-school climate and audio systems.

The bad news? The massive sunroof doesn't actually open, which is a big tease. I also found front-seat thigh support to be lacking, thanks to a seat bottom that's 2 or 3 inches too short.

Additionally, though the rear seats offer up adequate room, they're fairly stiff and upright.

2011 Mitsubishi RVR GT 4WD interior
The bad news? The massive sunroof doesn't actually open, which is a big tease. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)
Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
Automotive expert
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