Mitsubishi has redesigned the Outlander for 2010 to look and be more like its brothers and sisters, in particular the Lancer and Evolution. It's got that face now, so at least you know what it is. No longer lost in the midsize SUV crowd. With the radical redesign of the Endeavor SUV five years ago, Mitsubishi had pronounced, Above all else: Presence. The Outlander picks up that philosophy and runs with it.

There's not much about it that doesn't work. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is an economical winner, with an EPA-estimated 21/27 mpg City/Highway on Regular gas. The four-cylinder models benefit from a fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission, or CVT.

The 3.0-liter V6 version offers 230 horsepower and smoothness at high speeds, mated to a sharp six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. It gets an EPA-estimated 19/25 miles per gallon, Premium fuel is recommended for the V6. The flagship Outlander GT offers S-AWC, or Super All-Wheel Control, which provides super control and traction, as well as secure handling in corners. The GT has a standard compact third row, although the two flip-up seats are as small as they come. Outlander GT comes standard with the V6.

The interior design of the 2010 Outlander presents a handsome and functional dashboard and instrument panel, the bolstered seats fit just right, the standard 60/40 rear seat tumbles forward to create 72.6 cubic feet of cargo space. With heating and air conditioning vents in the rear, bottle holders in the door pockets, and sliding rear seats, passengers will be comfortable.