Vehicle Overview
Shortly after introducing its compact Outlander sport utility vehicle, Mitsubishi added the Endeavor, a larger crossover SUV. Similar in size to the automaker’s seven-passenger Montero, the midsize Endeavor is intended primarily for on-road motoring. A dual-range transfer case is not included, so offroad capabilities are limited.
For 2007, the Endeavor gets standard side curtain airbags with rollover protection, and an electronic stability system is newly standard on all Endeavors with all-wheel drive. The rear-seat entertainment system, however, has been dropped.
Two trim levels are offered: LS and SE. Each is available with either front- or all-wheel drive. Antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are standard, and exterior and interior styling modifications have been made.
Exterior
The Endeavor has a front end that features a new chrome grille set above a chin-type spoiler. For 2007, the bodyside cladding has been removed, and the LS has body-colored bumpers. SE models get body-colored door handles, side mirrors and rear license plate garnish. Large wheel openings and creased wheel arches are present, as is a rear bumper extension.
The Endeavor rides a 108.3-inch wheelbase and has 8.3 inches of ground clearance. A fully independent suspension and all-disc brakes are utilized. The SUV has 17-inch tires.
Interior
Medium Brown replaces Sand Blast and Black replaces Charcoal as interior color options for 2007. Five people can fit inside the Endeavor. Rear passengers get a 60/40-split, folding backseat. Cargo capacity behind the rear seat is 40.7 cubic feet, which grows to 76.4 cubic feet when the seat is folded down. The back window can open independent of the liftgate.
Cloth seating surfaces are standard, and leather seating surfaces are optional. New for 2007 are numerous option packages that bundle features like satellite radio, a power driver’s seat, leather seating surfaces, heated mirrors and a navigation system.
Under the Hood
The Endeavor’s 3.8-liter V-6 generates 225 horsepower and 255 pounds-feet of torque. The four-speed automatic transmission incorporates a Sportronic manual-shift provision. Models with all-wheel drive have a viscous coupling. When properly equipped, maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds for all-wheel-drive Endeavors.
Safety
Antilock brakes and side-impact airbags for the front seats are standard. For 2007, side curtain airbags with rollover protection are standard in all Endeavors, and models with all-wheel drive get a standard electronic stability system. A tire pressure monitoring system is also new for all Endeavors.
Driving Impressions
Overall, the Endeavor is a surprisingly enjoyable vehicle of manageable size. It handles with a light touch and maneuvers with agility in corners.
The V-6 engine delivers a satisfying burst of power when needed for passing. Mitsubishi’s automatic transmission yields prompt, confident responses that are devoid of awkwardness.
Visibility is great all around. Front headroom is good, even in models equipped with a sunroof. The seats are softly cushioned, with only modest bolstering and mediocre support. Backseat space is roomy at the sides and tolerable in the center. Controls are clear and the gauges are easy to read.
