Our top-of-the-line Mitsubishi Outlander GT (MSRP $27,795) came with an array of standard features like automatic HID headlights, automatic dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, hill start assist and a rearview camera

The only option on our Cool Silver Metallic test car was an expensive Touring Package ($6,100) that included:

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• Navigation
• Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Mitigation
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Moonroof
• Leather upholstery
• Premium stereo system
• Power driver's seat
• Power liftgate

Including destination, our Outlander 3.0 GT S-AWC retailed for $34,720.

(Pricing for the entry-level Outlander ES, with a four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, begins at $22,995.)

• The V6 engine is an increasingly rare option in the compact class, and the Outlander's delivers a relaxed 224 horsepower without the buzziness of turbochargers. It isn't a fast car, but there's plenty of torque and the Outlander moves with authority in most situations.
• Mitsubishi engineers dialed in soft settings for the suspension and steering— this priority on comfort has a pleasing Buick-like quality that will likely please its target audience.
• That soft tuning also makes the Outlander feel like a more substantial vehicle than it is—in a good way. It drives solidly, like a vehicle with larger exterior dimensions.

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• Because of its soft suspension and steering settings, the Outlander resists quick turns and spirited driving styles.
• Don't expect to achieve the EPA city rating of 20 mpg if you aren't gentle with the gas pedal. We saw mileage in the mid-teens.

• Although not at the quality level of a Lexus, the leather upholstery and wood trim gave our test car an upscale feel.
• The third row is cramped, admittedly, and we didn't even try to get back there. But it's a third row that many competitors simply don't have. If you want the convenience of transporting your children and their friends in a single trip, those two extra seats may be a logistical godsend.
• With its extra length, and two rows of split folding seats, the Outlander has plenty of versatile cargo space.
• Outward visibility is excellent.

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• The seats are flat and left some of us sore after only a few hours of driving.
• The navigation system seemed more like an aftermarket unit than original manufacturer equipment.
• One tester thought the reach for the low-mounted gearshift felt less premium than expected at this price point.

• Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver when the Outlander drifts out of its lane.
• Forward Collision Mitigation sounds the alarm when braking will avoid imminent impact with other vehicles or objects.

Unfortunately, the settings were far too sensitive for a city like Los Angeles with lots of traffic and roads in various stages of disrepair or construction. The 405 freeway and Sunset Boulevard sent both systems—erroneously—into a state of near-constant alarm.