Outlander opinions?

[XRL]

So my gf and I are in the market for something a little bigger than her PT Cruiser Turbo. Realistically, she needs a decently sized vehicle around here. She doesn't like most SUVs unfortunately because they're too "boxy"



Anyways, one of the vehicles that she actually does like is the Mitsubishi Outlander. It's actually a decent little SUV for the price, I'm kind of impressed with its feature list, and she likes its looks. Although it is a little smaller than I really was wanting for her, though it does well in crash test ratings. I was never big on the reliability of Mitsubishis, have they improved in quality?



I was pushing for the Suzuki XL7, as its largely a stretched Theta, and basically like my Vue. Meaning I could work on it easily enough, and it shouldn't have any real problems keeping it from lasting a long, long time. And that's one of the big things, this new vehicle needs to be big and versatile enough to last us for a long time (6+ years, it needs to make it through grad school). AWD/4x4 is definitely preferred.



Anyone got any opinions on them, or any other suggestions? We're trying to get something low miles, well equipped (leather, moonroof, AWD) for preferably less than 15k.

 

[longdx]

I have a Mitsubishi Mirage as a DD (typically had a long commute 67miles/one way). I bought it with 20k and have well over 165K on it now. With the exception of (1)HP a/c line failure, I have had zero problems with the car. It has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever had. ( I have had Subarus, Nissans, Saabs, Ford, GM). Would I buy another Mitsubishi? Absolutely. In fact, because they tend to be overlooked , one can usually get a well optioned vehicle for much less that comparable Honda/Toyota. The Suzuki XL7 is also very nice, but it really is up to your GF and her driving impressions of any vehicle.

 

[Chops]

I would stay away from an Outlander myself just becuase it's hard to find parts for them. I run the commercial parts program at an Advance Auto Parts and I cringe every time I hear the name Outlander I cringe. Some parts off the top of my head that I know I have not been able to find aftermarket are sway bar links, ball joints, shocks, and exhaust pieces. That means all of these wear items I have'nt been able to find through AAP, Auto Parts International or any of my second sources.