Strengths

Smooth, torquey powertrain; tough enough for most needs; seating and cargo space; long list of features

 

Changes

The Mitsubishi Endeavor returns for 2010 with some slight appearance changes, new wheel designs, and a couple of new colors (Carbon and Maizen Blue). Specifically, the Endeavor gets a restyled grille and restyled tailgate, while all trims now get the fog lamps and color keyed door handles and mirrors that used to be relegated to upmarket SE models.

Inside, the front armrest is wrapped in leatherette, automatic climate control is included in the SE models and a Bluetooth hands-free system with voice recognition is now standard across the model line.

Base LS models are now offered only with front-wheel drive, while the SE is still available with all-wheel drive. Available on the SE, there's a new Navigation & Sunroof Package, which combines a DVD nav system, rear-view backup camera, sunroof, and cargo cover.

 

Value

The Endeavor is an often-overlooked alternative for active families looking for a well-rounded vehicle to fit a wide range of needs. While the Endeavor has chunkier, more angular styling, it's a roomy, car-based crossover vehicle geared more toward on-road performance. And with a long list of standard equipment, you don't need to add options to get a very agreeable vehicle.

 

Overview

All Endeavor models are powered by a 225-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 engine, with a 4-speed automatic transmission that has a Sportronic manual mode. While most automatic transmissions today have five or six gears, the Endeavor gets by just fine with four because the engine produces so much torque (255 pound-feet) in an accessible range; downshifts aren't always required for relaxed passing or even slight uphill grades.

The all-wheel drive system that's available in the Endeavor is intended for slick roads, snow and light-duty off-roading, such as driving up the two-track to a backwoods campsite. A viscous coupling center differential divides power 50/50 between the front and rear wheels, and if either the front or rear wheels slip it transfers more power to the opposite axle. Traction is assisted by the electronic traction control system. Electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes are also featured on all Endeavors, along with front seat-mounted side airbags and rollover-sensing side-curtain bags.

The Endeavor rides and handles more like a car than a truck, with a multi-link independent rear suspension and all-season tires. The interior comfortable and reasonably quiet; there's seating for five, including plenty of legroom for back-seat passengers. The 60/40-split rear seatbacks fold forward to expand the already ample 40.7 cubic feet to 76.4 cubic feet. The Endeavor has a reasonably low cargo floor-capable of holding a 4-foot-wide sheet of plywood-and also includes tubular roof rails.

The base Endeavor LS comes very well equipped, with air conditioning, rear ducts, cruise control, power windows, mirrors, and locks, keyless entry, and a 6-speaker MP3/CD sound system all on the standard-equipment list. The SE models adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and a multi-information display.

Among the top options are a 360-watt Rockford Acoustic Design audio system with Sirius satellite radio and a towing package that increases tow capacity to 3,500 pounds on all-wheel-drive models.