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2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor

Mitsubishi Endeavor SUV Gains New Refinements For 2008

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) continues to enhance the value of its Endeavor mid-size crossover SUV model, making the Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) system standard on front-wheel drive models for 2008. (The ASTC system was already standard on the all-wheel drive models.) Additional refinements for 2008 add a premium character to Endeavor while preserving its excellent customer value.

Endeavor is available as the high-value LS and the luxuriously equipped SE that challenges near-luxury brand models, but at a better value. All models are powered by a 225-hp 3.8-liter SOHC V-6 engine that requires regular-grade fuel. In addition to three rich new exterior colors, the 2008 Endeavor offers a sumptuous new two-tone leather seating option in the SE model grade. The Suki Beige seating is accented by black side bolsters for a truly luxurious appearance.

'Endeavor brings bold, sporty style to the mid-size segment and today remains a compelling choice, thanks to its smooth, easy-to-drive performance, comprehensive safety technology and generous standard equipment,' said Dan Kuhnert, vice president for marketing and sales, Mitsubishi Motors North America.

Endeavor's standout design was inspired by the Mitsubishi Motorsports SUVs that have conquered the world's toughest rallies, including winning the 5,569-mile Dakar Rally for the seventh straight time in 2007. Such racing experience has helped Mitsubishi infuse Endeavor with the everyday durability and reliability that leads to high owner satisfaction.

Convincing Choice for Safety

Endeavor delivers the level of safety that family buyers especially demand, achieving 5-star ratings for frontal (driver) and side impact (front and rear seat) crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded Endeavor its highest ranking - 'Good' overall - in its frontal offset crash test.

All Endeavor models come equipped with a full array of advanced safety features, including: advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and rollover-sensing side curtain air bags. Standard driving safety technology includes Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC), an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Endeavor's available all-wheel drive system divides power evenly front-to-rear, adjusting the distribution in response to wheel spin.

Luxury with Value

The Endeavor blends high-torque V-6 performance with roomy, mid-size versatility. Unibody construction and 4-wheel independent suspension ensure a comfortable, quiet ride and confident handling. Externally, Endeavor conveys a premium appearance with color-keyed bumpers and chrome grille trim, with the SE model adding color-keyed door handles, side mirrors and rear license plate garnish.

A long list of standard equipment makes the LS model a strong value. The SE builds on the generous LS feature content and is in addition offered with a Sunroof Package and a Navigation Package. Endeavor SE comes with standard leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and side mirrors and a power driver's seat.

One of Endeavor SE's most appealing features is the standard 360-watt Rockford Acoustic Design™ premium audio system featuring steering wheel audio controls, plus SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a six-month pre-paid service subscription. In contrast, even the high-end versions of some competitive SUVs make premium audio an extra-cost option.

For added convenience, SE models also come with a standard multi-information display that integrates readouts for a compass, outside temperature, a trip computer and maintenance recorder. This feature also provides an interface that allows the owner to customize settings for many of the vehicle's interior functions.

Spacious, Agile and Quiet

Combining spaciousness with agility helps make Endeavor a standout choice in its segment. Endeavor is built on a 108.3-inch wheelbase, which contributes to a spacious rear seat area, featuring a generous 38.5 inches of legroom. Large doors and ideal ride height facilitate easy entry and exit. At the same time, the driver and passengers benefit from an elevated command seating position, and front seats are among the widest in the segment.

Endeavor was designed to handle families or outdoor enthusiasts with equal ease. The rear tailgate swings upward to reveal a versatile cargo area that can accommodate a four-foot-wide sheet of plywood or very large packages. On SE, the curved rear hatch glass can be opened independently of the rear tailgate. With the 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded, Endeavor offers 76.4 cu. ft. of cargo capacity, with 40.7 cu. ft. available when the seatbacks are up.

The roomy front center console provides additional storage, and all Endeavor models come equipped with 12v power outlets. Standard tubular roof rails are included on all Endeavor models, and crossbars are available as an accessory.

Endeavor's low-mounted, multi-link rear suspension reduces protrusion into the rear cargo area. Hydroformed crossmembers help minimize road noise and improve suspension performance by reinforcing the rear suspension mounting points to reduce flex. Standard 17-inch, five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/65 R17 all-season tires deliver a solid combination of responsive handling and a smooth, quiet ride.

Power and Traction for All Conditions

The Endeavor's 3.8-liter, SOHC V-6 engine generates 225 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 255 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,750 rpm. With abundant torque available at lower engine speeds, Endeavor yields responsive yet relaxed performance, along with quiet powertrain operation. The standard 4-speed automatic transmission features a Sportronic® mode that allows the driver to control gear shifting manually for a more engaging driving experience.

Endeavor is available in front-wheel-drive or full-time all-wheel-drive configurations for excellent wet-weather handling and light-duty off-pavement capability. The standard traction control system (TCL) on all Endeavor models provides a 'virtual' limited-slip differential effect by helping to prevent wheel spin during start up and acceleration in slippery conditions.

In the all-wheel drive Endeavor models, a transfer case combines a center differential with a viscous coupling to provide a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear wheels. This full-time automatic AWD system provides optimal grip on all road surfaces, and in all weather. Wheel slippage at either set of wheels causes the viscous coupling to transfer more power to the opposite set.

The advanced ASTC system in all Endeavor models helps to keep the vehicle traveling in the driver's intended direction by helping to prevent side slipping (spin and side drift) as a result of sudden steering wheel operation or on slippery roads.

The ASTC system takes data input from a number of sensors, including steering angle, individual wheel speed and yaw, as well as from the powertrain electronic control unit (ECU). If the onboard sensors detect side-slip, ASTC helps the driver maintain direction through braking and throttle corrections.

Mitsubishi Value

The Endeavor LS is one of the most comprehensively equipped models in the segment, featuring as standard: air conditioning with rear heater ducts; aluminum alloy wheels; cruise control with steering wheel switches; power windows with driver's auto-down; power mirrors and door locks; 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 capability and six speakers; keyless entry with integrated remote key, and a rear seat center armrest. Details such as the standard tubular roof rails, a color-keyed stone guard, front mudguards, auto-off headlights, front floormats and multiple folding assist grips are reminders of the inherently strong value in Endeavor LS.

In addition to all SE equipment described on page 2, the SE Sunroof Package upgrade combines a power glass sunroof, fog lamps, and a retracting cargo cover. The SE Navigation Package upgrade includes a DVD-based navigation system featuring a seven-inch LCD touch screen. The navigation system features male or female voice guidance and a choice among English, Spanish or French languages. This versatile system also replaces the functions of the standard trip computer.

All 2008 Endeavor models are equipped with a standard towing prep package featuring an automatic transmission cooler, power steering fluid cooler, increased-capacity radiator (AWD models only), a full-size spare tire and a trailer hitch wiring harness. The front-wheel drive Endeavor SE can tow a trailer up to 2000 lbs., and all-wheel drive raises that to 3,500 lbs.

All Endeavor models are built in the Mitsubishi manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill., one of the industry's most flexible assembly plants. This facility produces four different models: Endeavor, Eclipse coupe and Spyder, and the Galant mid-size sedan.

Premium Warranty

Mitsubishi cars, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks are backed by comprehensive new vehicle limited warranties. Mitsubishi Eclipse, Lancer, Galant, Endeavor and Outlander vehicles come with a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty; along with a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty. The high-performance Lancer Evolution is covered by a 5-year, 60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, along with a 3-year/36,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty. Mitsubishi pickup trucks are covered by a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty that also includes powertrain components.

All Mitsubishi vehicles have a 7-year /100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty, along with 5-years/unlimited miles Roadside Assistance, which includes free towing to the nearest authorized Mitsubishi retailer.

by Mitsubishi

by Mitsubishi

2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor At-A-Glance

The Mitsubishi Endeavor is a crossover-type mid-size sport-utility vehicle that combines car-like driving dynamics with impressive comfort, safety, room and versatility. Endeavor is available with front-wheel drive or full-time all-wheel drive.

New for 2008, front-wheel drive models gain the Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) system, which was already standard on the all-wheel drive models. Also for 2008, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, with six-month pre-paid service, is included with the Endeavor SE models. In addition to three rich new exterior colors, the 2008 Endeavor offers a sumptuous new two-tone leather seating option in the SE model. The Suki Beige seating is accented by black side bolsters for a premium appearance.

Endeavor makes a strong safety statement, achieving 5-star ratings for frontal (driver) and side impact (front and rear seat) crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded Endeavor its highest ranking - 'Good' overall - in its frontal offset crash test. All Endeavor models come equipped with an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors; standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and rollover-sensing side curtain air bags; an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Endeavor is available as the well-equipped LS model and the luxurious SE, featuring leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and a 360-watt Rockford Acoustic Design Premium Audio System with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and steering wheel audio controls. The SE offers an optional Sunroof Package and Navigation Package.

Unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension give Endeavor a smooth, quiet ride. The 108.3-inch wheelbase contributes to a spacious rear seat area, featuring a generous 38.5 inches of legroom. Large doors and ideal ride height facilitate easy entry and exit. With the 60/40-split rear seat backs folded, Endeavor offers 76.4 cu. ft. of cargo capacity; 40.7 cu. ft. when rear seat backs are up.

Endeavor's smooth 3.8-liter V-6 engine produces 225 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 255 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,750 rpm. Abundant torque at lower engine speeds provides responsive yet relaxed performance, along with quiet powertrain operation. The standard 4-speed automatic transmission features a Sportronic® mode that allows the driver to control gear shifting manually when desired.

The available full-time all-wheel drive system provides a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear wheels, transferring more power to the wheels with the best traction should wheel slip occur.

by Mitsubishi

by Mitsubishi

A mid-size crossover SUV produced by Mitsubishi Motors, the Endeavor was manufactured in their Normal, Illinois plant. The Endeavor was based on the PS platform and was the original vehicle built under Mitsubishi's 'Project America' which was a program that was aimed at introducing vehicles for North America ‘without having to compromise to accommodate other export markets'.

The design style behind the Endeavor can be searched back to the Mitsubishi SSU which was introduced at the 1999 North American International Auto Show. The Endeavor didn't share the SSU's mechanical underpinnings though. The prototype had been powered by a 305 hp version of the 6A13TT 2.5 liter twin-turbo V6 which sent the power to a full-time all wheel drive system through its INVECS-II five-speed semi-automatic transmission and AYC. The Endeavor was introduced with a 6G75 3.8 liter V6 offered 215 hp and 250 lb/ft joined to a four-speed semi-automatic transmission with an available all-wheel drive system that splits the torque 50/50 by default.

The Endeavor was introduced in 2004 and shortly after its debut the Endeavor was updated as a 2004.5 model. Halfway through the year, the vehicle received dual-stage front airbags, daytime running lamps, a tire pressure monitoring system and 10 more hp. LS two-wheel-drive models received an available anti-lock braking system. The Endeavor XLS was upgraded to receive standard front-seat side airbags and a leather steering wheel. The AWD Limited received new options that included a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and stability control.

The Endeavor featured smart snazzy style with plenty of room for five passengers and their luggage. For the 2005 model year, the Endeavor received side airbags as a standard feature, and antilock brakes as an option on base models until 2006.

For 2006 the Endeavor received a slight restyle. The seating position was elevated much like other crossovers and featured hauling ability of a traditional SUV with a smooth, carlike ride and better fuel economy. The Endeavor did lack the serious off-road and heavy-duty towing abilities of a truck-based SUV. In 2006 the XLS was dropped and the following year the Limited trim was replaced by as SE trim. For the 2007 model new available features included a navigation system and a Rockford Fosgate stereo, and the rear DVD entertainment option was deleted. Also this year, side curtain airbags were added as a standard feature, and traction control became a standard all the way across the lineup for 2008.

The two trim levels offered in the Endeavor lineup were the LS and the SE, and both trims were powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produced 225 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. A standard option was a four-speed automatic transmission with a fancy manual shift mode. The vehicle was available with all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models came with standard stability control which supplements the traction control, an option that is standard on all Endeavors. On front-wheel-drive models, stability control was not available. The Endeavor does come equipped with standard rollover-sensing side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Endeavor did win points for crashworthiness in both government and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing.

The LS featured air-conditioning, a CD player, and full power accessories. Additional features that could be purchased as extras included leather, a navigation system, heated seats or a sunroof, high-end audio with satellite radio were available on the SE trim in a variety of available option packages. Unavailable options included keyless start, a rear entertainment system, a back-up camera, a panoramic sunroof.

The Endeavor earned a surprise award in an Edmunds comparison test when it first debuted. It won with a variety of good looks, smart handling and excellent off-road performance and torque-filled engine performance. The only complaints were minor styling elements and the choice of materials in the cabin.

Further updates and improvements were made by Mitsubishi over the years. The Endeavor didn't receive a third-row seat, a feature that really has become a ‘must-have' for this type of vehicle and it came with a disappointing 76.4 cubic feet. . It is also considered to be a bit ‘outclassed' in the area of engine power, transmission gearing and feature availability.

Unfortunately the Mitsubishi Endeavor failed to meet the high expectations set forward by Mitsubishi, despite favorable reviews on its release, only 32,054 units were sold by the end of its debut year, instead of the hoped for 80,000 units. Sales have continued to fall every year since. The Endeavor continues to receive good reviews for its strong engine, responsible handling and distinctive design.

by Jessican Donaldson