In base LS trim the Outlander doesn't disappoint either. It features auto-off halogen headlights, folding power side view mirrors, air conditioning, a height adjustable steering wheel, power windows with auto down driver's window, power door locks including the liftgate, an 8-way adjustable driver's seat, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback with armrest, a 140-watt, 4-speaker, AM/FM/CD audio system and more. Standard safety equipment includes driver and front passenger airbags, height adjustable front shoulder belts and an engine immobilizer, among other items.

Even the base Outlander LS has impressive interior safety and comfort features, especially considering its relatively low price. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors)

The top-tier XLS adds nicely detailed metallic heating and ventilation controls plus accents surrounding the gauges, circular vents, analog clock and shifter gate. The high-contrast I/P gauge dials themselves are surfaced in white, very classy. Additional equipment includes mist control wiper washers, a leather steering wheel and shift knob, steering column mounted cruise control, premium cloth fabric seat material, 10-way adjustable driver's seat, floor mats, a cargo cover, keyless entry, and two additional speakers for the audio system. Exterior features that set the XLS apart from the LS are integrated fog lamps, roof rails, clear taillight lenses, a full-size rear spoiler, privacy glass and 16-inch Euroflange alloy rims.

An optional Convenience package adds a cargo cover, roof rails, keyless entry and floor mats to the base Outlander.(Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

The alloy wheels and privacy glass, making up the Appearance package, can be ordered on LS models, while an optional Convenience package adds the cargo cover, roof rails, keyless entry and floor mats to the less expensive base Outlander.

As mentioned previously the Outlander is nicely finished inside. The unusual but appealing use of high-grade cloth on the dash, sets it apart from all competitors, as well as all other Mitsubishis, while the surrounding plastics are really first rate. Chrome is added here and there to tastefully finish off the look, making the Outlander appear more expensive than its $20-something price would suggest.