Click image to enlarge Images courtesy: Mitsubishi

For 2007, the Mitsubishi Endeavor undergoes several refinements. The new Special Edition (SE) builds on the LS with the Road Trip Package offered in 2006, but includes a Rockford Acoustic Design premium audio system; the LS model is discontinued. The Limited is now available in one trim level, with standard leather package and navigation system; the rear seat entertainment system is dropped.

On the exterior, Endeavor models receive a chrome-plated centre grille bar, colour-keyed door handles, side mirrors and rear license plate garnish, and the body side moulding is eliminated. Exterior colour Satin Meisai replaces Titanium Pearl, and Torched Steel Blue and Mineral Beige have been discontinued.

All models receive curtain airbags with rollover protection, anti-theft, and a tire pressure monitoring system as standard equipment, while all-wheel drive models receive standard Active Skid and Traction Control.

Inside, interior material quality has been enhanced; charcoal fabric has been changed to monotone black, and Medium Brown replaces Sand Blast.

The Endeavor uses a 3.8-litre V6, mated to a four-speed automatic; it’s available in front- or all-wheel drive. That system splits torque evenly between the front and rear axles under normal driving conditions, and distributes it when necessary if any wheels slip.

The SE comes in front- or all-wheel drive, and includes 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, auto-off headlamps, intermittent rear wiper/washer, privacy glass, roof rails, power mirrors, air conditioning, cruise control, power locks with keyless entry, power windows, 60/40 folding rear seat, power sunroof, and six-CD/MP3 stereo. FWD models include traction control, while AWD models use Active Skid and Traction Control.

The Limited is all-wheel only, and adds 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels, fog lights, roof rack crossbars, automatic climate control, six-way power driver’s seat, leather upholstery and navigation system.

Based on a platform that also underpins the Galant, the Endeavor is car-like in its handling; its punchy engine, four-wheel independent suspension and manual-mode transmission make it much sportier than most SUVs and increase the driving fun. The safety and convenience additions to the line-up make this a well-equipped vehicle for the price, especially if you consider Mitsubishi’s extensive warranty coverage.