It is said that, �Desperate times call for desperate measures.� For Mitsubishi Motors Corp., an anxious U.S. economy spawns new measures with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine available on the Mitsubishi Outlander sport utility.

For 2008, Mitsubishi�s base Outlander ES marks the return of its inline-4-cylinder engine (I-4) to the compact model after being ousted for 2007.

Its comeback arrives just in time to do battle with escalating fuel prices.

Mitsubishi�s I-4 with 168-horsepower and a continuous variable transmission compliments Outlander LS and up-scale XLS models equipped with a 3.0-liter V-6 that delivers 220-horsepower to an optional all-wheel drivetrain managed by a six-speed automatic transmission.

Unlike its stablemates, Outlander ES is not available with a V-6 engine. However, all-wheel drive remains a buyer�s choice as front-wheel drive is standard.

A dial on the console engages all-wheel bite while on the move. A "lock" mode for full-time four-wheel drive (4WD) meets the demand for more gritty off-road travel.

Fuel economy for the 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander ES with 4WD, base priced at $22,000 including freight, achieves 20-mpg in town and 25-mpg on the highway. Front-wheel drive Outlander LS and XLS models cost $23,035 and $24,275 respectively and yield 17-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on open road.

All Mitsubishi Outlanders are dressed with an athletic cut accentuated by slim headlamps, a tapered roofline and bulging wheel-well flares.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander ES and LS come with 5-passenger seating while the XLS version carries three rows for seven-passengers.

Interior space is comfortable with leg and hip room akin to larger SUVs. Deep cushion seats provide first and second row riders excellent long distance support.

(OPTIONAL TRIM) The third row on XLS is best left for adult cross-town travel, but ideal for cross-country trips with youngsters.

(OPTIONAL TRIM) An aisle is created to the rear seat with the flip and fold movement of the second row. Tumbling the second row forward and collapsing the back seat provides nearly 74-cubic feet of stowage space.

Access to Outlander�s cargo bay is easy with a split-tailgate design that offers a low lift-over while a convenient slide-plate covers the gap between the drop-gate and the body for a continuous load surface.

Ride quality and maneuverability is very good with anti-skid and traction control accompanying all trim levels.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander ES includes air-conditioning with cabin air filter, power windows/locks/mirrors, keyless entry and AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 capability. Front side-impact and side-curtain air bags are also standard.

(OPTIONAL TRIM) LS adds color-keyed power side mirrors, roof rails, rear privacy glass, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio switches, leather shift knob, dual 12-volt accessory outlets and floor mats. The XLS model includes leather upholstery with heated front seats.