By Margie Martin
West Coast Women's Motoring Editor

MISSION VIEJO, Calif. - As I begin to write my review of the new 2004 Endeavor by Mitsubishi, I realized that not only have I discovered another great automobile, but also I have reinforced one of my most painfully learned lessons, and that is "Never say Never."

Years ago, I said I would never want an SUV. I now shutter to think that I ever made that statement, and after driving Mitsubishi's crossover SUV, and discovering the pure pleasure of the species, I am convinced that my prior statement as to whether I would want to own a Sport Utility Vehicle was based on total ignorance.

I decided to take the Endeavor on a romp down Santiago Canyon Road, in Orange County California. This is about an 18-mile stretch of beautiful hills and valley's dotted with large Oak trees that still portray the ambiance of covered wagons and early settlers to the area. The Endeavor only made the trip that much more enjoyable, as I experienced a ride that was more like gliding than driving. The suspension system on this SUV is incredible. The vehicle fits in size between the mid-size Montero Sport and the larger Montero, and is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The 3.8-liter V6 engine with MPI Fuel Injection makes 2l5-horsepower, and it's teamed with a Sportronic 4-speed automatic transmission definitely gave the feel of power and maneuverability. The Sportronic 4 speed automatic transmission can also adapt to allow drivers to manually engage their desired gear. Additionally, the engine is designed to produce the majority of its torque at low rpm. The Endeavor's drive train offers improved wet weather handling and it can be configured as either a front-wheel-drive or full-time all-wheel-drive SUV.

In my opinion, this vehicle is a perfect size SUV, and offers more utility than most people need while still maintaining a reasonable size that does not compel you to limit miles due to fears of excessive gas consumption.

Adding to the maneuverability of this vehicle is the power assisted rack & pinion steering. Much to my surprise, this SUV seemed to have a better turn ratio than some of the sedans that I have driven lately. The front & rear stabilizer bars in addition to a superior suspension system provided the glide that brought me pleasantly over speed bumps and back roads.

The exterior featured 17 " polished alloy wheels, chrome bumper caps, tubular roof rails with cross bars to carry plenty of equipment on my weekend outings. I have to say that every time I approached the vehicle in a parking lot, I had to admire the standout styling, definitely a new and great design for this Endeavor.

The Mitsubishi Endeavor provides for superior safety and comes equipped with dual front air bags, side impact door beam, and an anti-theft engine immobilizer. Keeping in mind that this is a family vehicle, the manufacturer includes anchors and tethers for children, safety locks and a latch system for child seats.

Inside the cabin, I enjoyed Mitsubishi/Infinity AM/FM/6CD dash changer with its 7 speakers. It provided fantastic sound. Several features, which I enjoyed and felt were out of the ordinary, included the blue light system on the dash and speedometer, which made for locating radio knobs and temp controls quite easy. The controls were also very conveniently located and easy to operate. Although it could be considered high tech, the operation of every feature was easily determined.

The Endeavor has 60/40 split one-touch fold rear seatbacks that are easily operated. The center console was a little different than most, and although I didn't understand the point of the design, it was functional and certainly served my purpose which is that I require an ample armrest for comfort. This particular Endeavor did not have leather seats and although the cloth is certainly somewhat functional, with my family I need leather. The steering wheel had some type of anti slip material on portions of the wheel, which to the tactile touch was a little annoying at first.

The Mitsubishi Endeavor is really the kind of vehicle you want to "wake up and drive." I don't always give such glowing reviews, and if I were to purchase this vehicle I would insist on the upgraded interior. But all in all, at the end of the day, if I find myself loathing the hour when the manufacturer takes back the vehicle after my review period is up, I know I could and would definitely recommend it for consideration.

The price is right at $30,342.00, which in this case included upgrades of about $1850.00 for combined power glass sunroof and an extra security plus package. Other than upgrading to leather, you certainly would find everything you needed included in this model. I found the Endeavor to be an exciting option for those families looking for an adaptable alternative to the sedan model lineup.

LIFE'S A TRIP - Enjoy the drive. Be a safe and courteous driver, obey all highway laws, never drive impaired and buckle everyone up. Copyright © 2004 The Weekend Drive, All Rights Reserved.