2009 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 SE 4WD

Those shifters -- along with the steering wheel, HVAC controls, and overall design -- will provide a sense of déjà vu to anyone who has driven a Lancer Evolution. The 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with the 10-in. subwoofer is standard on the SE, but lacks an auxiliary input for digital music devices. And disregard the telephone buttons on the steering wheel. Bluetooth is a $250 option, one that our tester came without, yet the buttons remained.

The Outlander we tested, with the optional third row and four-wheel drive, totaled $26,595. This is an uncomfortable price, considering the topline XLS V-6 4WD model starts at just $300 more and comes with the third row standard. For the cost of an iPhone, the XLS offers 220 hp, 204 lb-ft of torque, and a real six-speed automatic. Downsides? The XLS doesn't come with the Rockford Fosgate system or sunroof, a $1610 package. And the V-6 comes with a fuel-economy drop of 3 mpg city/1 mpg highway. Still, that narrow price difference will likely entice many prospective Outlander buyers to step up to the V-6.

The Outlander SE 4WD is a competent crossover with some impressive standard features. It rides smoothly and looks attractive, but with the third-row option, it nudges the price too close to the V-6-powered XLS trim, negating value. If frugality rules, skip the third row. If seven-passenger seating is a necessity, opt for the XLS.