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2011 Mitsubishi RVR GT 4WD Review

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Michel Deslauriers
Don't let the power output fool you
The RVR’s all-wheel drive system, called AWC, is one of the best setups you can find in a compact SUV or crossover. On ice or in a foot of snow, the little Mitsubishi excels at finding whatever grip is available underfoot and puts it to good use. You always feel in control, which means greater confidence behind the wheel. You can also manually switch over to front-wheel drive to help fuel economy, or let the system manage on its own.

Our fuel consumption average is 10.3 L/100 km, which is pretty good. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)

Like in the Outlander, the RVR’s suspension is calibrated just right: not too stiff, not too soft and minimal body roll. I can’t think of a better balance for the mission of the vehicle.

Fuel consumption with the 16-valve, 2.0-litre engine (shared with the Lancer, by the way) is averaging 10.3 L/100 km over the course of this week’s testing, which is pretty good.

Inside, the RVR’s dash and door panels are a bit plasticky, but overall, the design and appearance is swell, and the nicely-bolstered seats are covered in grippy fabric. The GT trim adds niceties such as an intelligent key system, a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system with subwoofer and satellite radio, a colour display for the trip computer, a panoramic glass roof (which doesn’t open but includes cool ambient lighting) and a rear-seat center armrest.

Speaking of the rear seat, the sheer size of the RVR means sufficient space for kids and adequate space for two adults; three grown-ups will rub shoulders, among other body parts. Cargo space is where the RVR unfortunately suffers the most; there’s less room back there than in the Patriot and Compass twins. But more than in compact hatchbacks such as the Mazda3 Sport, the Kia Forte5 and the Nissan Juke.

It’s a personal opinion, of course, but I like the RVR’s looks. Around the office’s sophisticated new coffee machine, comments such as “it’s got no butt” have been heard. I’ll assume it was related to the conversation about the Mitsubishi.

Despite some hard plastics, the cockpit’s design and appearance are swell. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)
Michel Deslauriers
Michel Deslauriers
Automotive expert