The Mitsubishi Endeavor is a midsize crossover SUV that may just get the axe. In fact, no new 2009 model has been released by Mitsubishi, though there are rumors that a full makeover is coming for 2010, perhaps even a Ralliart version of the crossover. If so, the new Endeavor would be a "driver's" SUV, offering performance and refinement. However, for now, drivers must be content with the 2008 model remnants or choose to purchase a used model.
The 2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor received a few updates over its 2007 incarnation, including a standard antiskid system and a few other tweaks. However, the vehicle remained mostly unchanged, carrying the same exterior and interior styling over from the previous model year. The Endeavor is available in either LS or in SE trim levels and both models make use of the same engine and transmission configuration. In addition, both trim levels are available as front-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive (there is no low gear option for off-road use).
The single engine used on the Endeavor is a 3.8-liter V6 producing 225 hp, teamed with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Endeavor offers a bit of towing capacity, coming in at a maximum of 3500 lbs. The vehicle also offers a few other safety features, including traction control and ABS.
2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor Performance
One of the high points about driving an Endeavor is the pep with which it takes off from a stop. The vehicle does not offer tremendous top end performance, though. Even moderate performance requires a heavy foot on the accelerator. However, the manual shift gate can be used to overcome some of these shortcomings, enabling the vehicle to feel a bit more responsive to throttle input. For fuel economy, the Endeavor comes in pretty poor, averaging less than 17 mpg. Of course, front-wheel drive versions get a bit more than this, though even they do not exceed 20 mpg.
Steering and handling on the Endeavor are not as exciting as you might think, but they are better than many crossovers are capable of producing. Very little body lean is noticeable during hard turns and the vehicle does not suffer from excessive nosedive during braking. The brakes are powerful enough for the vehicle's size, though not excessively. Finally, some wander will be felt during heavy winds, though this is a hallmark of almost all SUVs.
For ride quality, the Endeavor enjoys high scores. The ride is comfortable, but not too soft. In fact, jarring and jouncing is kept to a minimum, while still providing a bit of stiffness for performance oriented drivers. Finally, the vehicle does suffer from wind noise at highway speeds, though road noise and engine noise are pleasantly muted.
2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor Interior
The LS trim level suffers from extreme utilitarian styling. Upgrading to the SE and leather interior is highly recommended. Other than the upholstery, the interior of the Endeavor is nice, without being particularly remarkable. The gauge cluster is large and easy to read, not suffering dimness in certain light levels. In addition, all the controls including audio and climate controls can be reached easily from the driver's position. Finally, the navigation does complicate some of the controls, but a bit of familiarity is all that is needed to overcome this minor hurdle.
The front seats of the 2008 Endeavor are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of headroom. The seats are surprisingly comfortable, even the cloth seats of the LS model. The visibility to the rear is somewhat less than perfect, but the rest of the vehicle is excellent. The rear seats provide plenty of room, even with the front seats moved fully to the rear. This is not an area limited to children only; you can squeeze three full-grown adults back there with a bit of shoehorning. The seats are comfortable and the support is adequate.
Cargo room is adequate, but not spacious. The rear seats do fold down to increase the amount of cargo space, though. The Endeavor also offers plenty of cubbies and storage compartments in the cabin interior.
2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor Safety Features
The Endeavor offers quite a few safety features, including daytime running lights, a tire pressure monitor, rollover sensors, dual front airbags, front side airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes and side curtain airbags.
Summary
While waiting for the 2010 Endeavor may pay off, the 2008 model offers you numerous benefits right now. Of course, the Endeavor is a bit shy in the power department, but everything else about the vehicle is excellent, making this a perfect choice for numerous drivers.