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2013 Mitsubishi RVR Preview

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Marie-Laurence Paquin
Highlights*
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR is nicely equipped (even in base trim) and backed by one of the industry's best warranties. It also offers good visibility and pleasant handling.

Lowlights*
A single engine is available, and the optional CVT proves noisy. The lack of sound-deadening materials throughout the vehicle doesn't help. What's more, some of the technology feels a bit dated.

Pricing
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR comes in four trim levels: ES 2WD, SE 2WD, SE 4WD, and GT 4WD. Buyers can specify a 10th Anniversary Package, as well. Pricing ranges from $19,998 to $28,998.

Photo: Mitsubishi

Fuel consumption
In 2WD configuration, this small crossover achieves 8.6L/100km in the city and 6.4L/100km on the highway with the standard manual transmission or 8.1L/100km in the city and 6.1L/100km on the highway with the CVT. Meanwhile, 4WD models (which all use the CVT) are not much thirstier, as evidenced by their ratings of 8.6L and 6.7L/100km, respectively.

Styling
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR shares its compact platform with the Lancer and Outlander. An aggressive front fascia and sharp body creases give the vehicle a bold, sporty look.

Cargo capacity
With the rear seats up, you can load 614 litres of cargo; fold them down, and you wind up with 1,402 litres of room. The fact of the matter is that cargo capacity is not what makes the RVR stand out from the competition.

Powertrain
As mentioned earlier, the 2013 Mitsubishi RVR makes do with a single engine option: a 2.0L 4-cylinder unit that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission has five gears only, and the available CVT includes paddle shifters in top-of-the-line GT 4WD trim. By the way, Mitsubishi's 4WD system is called “All-Wheel Control” (AWC).

Safety
RVR occupants benefit from seven standard airbags, active stability and traction control, along with ABS and brake assist. A tire pressure monitoring system is included in every model, and buyers can add a rearview camera.

Photo: Mitsubishi

Warranty
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR comes with a 5-year/100,000-km comprehensive limited warranty, a 10-year/160,000-km powertrain warranty, plus five years of roadside assistance.

Competitors
Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Compass, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Subaru XV Crosstrek, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4


*Based on expert reviews.
Poirier-Defoy Michel, L’auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.442
Laguë Philippe, L’annuel de l’automobile 2013, Montreal Transcontinental, 2012, p.462
www.mitsubishi-motors.ca


Marie-Laurence Paquin
Marie-Laurence Paquin
Automotive expert
None