To compensate, the only available Outlander transmission -- a four-speed automatic in both front-wheel and all-wheel versions -- adds a manual "Sportronic" shift mode. While it's undoubtedly there for those who like to play but don't know, or don't want to know, about stick shifts, I found it helped counteract one of the vehicle's few noticeable flaws.

When climbing over the area's hilly terrain, the Outlander struggled less and simply behaved better with the Sportronic mode engaged.

But despite complaints about wimp power, it had a surprising amount of control and stability for such a budget-priced entry. Digging into -- and out of -- sharp curves at the top practical speed was easy thanks to the vehicle's taut independent front and rear suspension and speed assist rack and pinion steering.

There was almost no loose steering wheel play -- what manufacturers' call a dead area -- to muddy up the road feel.

Mitsubishi seems to have scored with styling that is bold yet somewhat understated, both inside and out.

The Outlander has a strong, aggressive face, with a blunted V-shape nose in the hood anchored in front by the signature three-diamond logo.

It is sleeker and more aerodynamic appearing than some competitors, namely the Subaru Forester, redesigned for 2003 that barely inches into the SUV category heightwise. Having driven the Forester earlier in its life, I noticed by comparison the Outlander's distinctly more raised vehicle feel in addition to an obvious visibility advantage. Storage, however, is smaller although ample enough to haul pieces of furniture.

The Japan-built Outlander shares platform and stiffened chassis with Mitsubishi's sporty, entry-level Lancer sedan. It has the ride and feel of a car-based SUV, but hasn't lost the sense of being a higher center of gravity vehicle. That was evident one windy day during an extended driving test, and would have been more so with luggage piled atop the sturdy roof rails.

EYE APPEAL

That roof rack adds appeal to the Outlander's handsome exterior design, an option on the economy LS but standard on the pricier XLS model. Overall lines are smooth and supple with integrated head and tail lamps wrapping cleanly into the corners. A touch of European influence shines in optional side-mounted oval turn indicator lights. A slight running board makes getting in and out easier, and blends into exterior lines when the doors are closed.

A slight spoiler tops the rear hatch-style door, extending the vehicle visually. Accessing the flat rear storage floor is easy, as the deck's at about an average woman's hip level. For added trunk room, the second row seating folds flat as a whole or in 60 or 40 percent sections.

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