Optional features available on the LS include the same roof rack, alloy wheels and privacy glass found on the XLS, as well as a cargo cover and remote keyless entry. You will be able to option out the XLS as well, with a 'Sound and Sun' package, including a power sunroof and a 6-speaker, 210-watt Infinity audio system. The Luxury package adds heated leather seats, side airbags, heated side mirrors and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a compass and temperature gauge.
The unique front end design, with its protruding 'shnoz' flanked by four wide slats for cooling the radiator, is somewhat reminiscent of Pontiac's controversial Aztek, but executed with much more grace. Its rear styling, truly its best angle, is original yet tasteful, with simple clean lines that flow from its sculpted rear hatch to the rooftop rear spoiler. The roofline is capped with a beefy tubular roof rack.
How much will it cost? Don't expect the Outlander to exceed its Chevy Tracker, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute and Jeep Liberty competitors, all priced between $21,000 and $30,000, base and fully-loaded respectively.
It looks like Mitsubishi will be here in Canada for the long haul, with plans for ten models by fall of 2003 and 150 dealers from coast to coast by 2007. That said Mitsubishi's onslaught of SUVs won't stop at the Montero, Montero Sport and Outlander models. Arriving some time in 2003, most likely as a 2004 model, a V6 powered midsize model will hit local showrooms to take on the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and soon to be launched Nissan Murano, among others.
Only time will tell how the Mitsubishi brand will be accepted in Canada. One thing is for sure, it won't fail for a lack of SUVs. My guess, it won't fail in the least. After all, they've got a Canadian at the helm.