Reflective of the small SUV market, the one currently bursting at the seams with choices, the 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander arrives to entice the fuel-efficiency-craving masses in no fewer than five trims. With base prices loosely estimated to range between $19,000 and less than $30,000 fully loaded, every model will be powered by the same 220-horsepower V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, with the drivetrain available in front- or four-wheel-drive variants.

Positioned as the entry-level Outlander, the ES is available only as a front-driver, though it comes well-equipped with automatic headlights, a rear wiper, a tilting but not telescoping steering wheel, a trip computer, air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver's seat, keyless entry, a fold-and-tumble second-row split bench, and desirable safety items such as front-side and side-curtain airbags as well as antilock brakes and a tire-pressure monitoring system. A 140-watt sound system with speed-compensated volume plays CDs and MP3s, cruise control ensures a steady speed, and controls for the power windows and door locks are within easy reach.

Falling into the middle of the 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander lineup is the LS model, available with either front- or four-wheel-drive. The LS adds standard equipment including black roof rails, deeply tinted rear glass, 16-inch alloy wheels in lieu of the ES's steel rims, a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel with audio controls, a rear cargo cover for an element of security, and connectivity for the optional Bluetooth system. Also available at an extra cost is a Sun & Sound Package, featuring a 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate Punch sound system with an iPod jack, six months of free Sirius satellite radio, and a power sunroof; and an Entertainment Package offering a rear DVD system with a nine-inch screen and wireless headphones.

For buyers seeking the most standard creature comforts in a small SUV, Mitsubishi offers the 2007 Outlander XLS which, like the LS, is available as a front-driver or four-wheeler. The XLS is distinguished by silver exterior trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a hideaway third-row seat that bumps capacity up to seven passengers, sturdy tie-down bars on the walls of the cargo area, a keyless ignition system, and magnesium paddle shifters. Options include the Sun & Sound Package, not to mention a Luxury Package, complete with high-intensity discharge headlights, leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, heated front seats, and a touch-screen navigation system with a 30GB hard drive, availing six gigabytes for storing personal music choices. When coupled with the Entertainment Package (and with the vehicle in Park), the navigation screen can display the same DVD showing on the rear's fold-down screen.