By Asian Journal Auto Editor

If you are on the lookout for a sub-compact SUV, the Mitsubishi RVR (Recreational Vehicle Runner) should be on everyone’s radar. It is the best-selling Mitsubishi nameplate in Canada, selling nearly 59,000 since its launch in 2010. And globally, the RVR is the third best-selling Mitsubishi vehicle. The RVR, has always been a pretty looking thing, and for 2020 is beefed up a little in the looks department, but loses none of its charm. Happy to say thing are even better with the new 2020 RVR. The front and rear lights are updated with LED units, along with daytime running lights. There are new alloy wheels, and a new grill design to finishes off the look, along with new full width LED taillights and tasteful trim updates.

Inside, there is a larger than before new eight-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models come with driver’s knee airbag, cruise control, power windows and power door locks with remote keyless entry, a larger rear-view camera, heated front seats and heated power side-view mirrors. Bluetooth, anti-theft security system, variable intermittent wiper and washer and a suite of safety features including hill start assist, traction control Logic, RISE body construction, active stability control and brake override system.

There are two engines available — a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder that makes 148 hp and 145 lb.-ft. of torque and the 2.4-litre, four-cylinder that generates 168 hp and 167 lb.-ft. of torque. The SEL AWC, and top trim levels gets the 2.4-litre motor. Both mills are teamed with Mitsubishi’s latest INVECSIII CVT transmission. The RVR offers the segment’s only lockable 4WD system. RVR’s All-Wheel-Control in the GT spec. On the entry-level ES FWD version (starting price: $22,998), you get heated front seats, step up to the SE FWD ($25,298 plus $1,650 destination/handling fees), buyers gain: blind spot monitor and rear transversal traffic alert. The SE AWC version, offers the smaller 2.0L engine and adds rear traffic alert and LED anti-fog lights to the mix. The RVR SEL AWC ($29,798) arrives with 18-inch alloy wheels, faux suede seat trim, fast-key keyless entry, push-button start and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The Limited Edition AWC ($30,798), adds exterior black trim, 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels, black grille and black side-view mirrors. Inside, the steering wheel and gearshift handle are leather-wrapped.  The driver’s knee pad with red stitching and a black headliner complete the look. The top dog RVR GT AWC ($33,998), offers lane departure warning and forward collision warning, plus panoramic roof and a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers.

Inside, the cabin is smart, clean and uncluttered. Entry and exit are into the front is very good with an excellent hip point – ideal for the elderly, and those who have to lug car seats around, who will also appreciate the easy glide in entry. The new eight-inch touch screen is a nice touch and works well with the conventional buttons and large dials for the volume and HVAC system. Piano black trim adds a nice finishing touch. Seats are comfortable, ergonomics good and there is space for two adults in the back- three at a push, although entry to the rear is not as easy as it is for the front, with sloping door frame.  There are a handy 566 litres (20 cubic feet) of cargo space with all the seats up and almost 1,415 L (50 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Everything looks to be well screwed together, while build quality, fit and finish is excellent.

On the road, hndling is good, cornering is well controlled. The engine delivers eager, acceleration and lots of usable torque. It is a pleasant, carefree vehicle to drive with nimble handling and quick reflexes thank to solid engineering. The steering is precise, responsive with good lock and return to center action. The RVR handles most road surfaces very well. The suspension set up offers a good spot between sporty and comfortable.  Harsher road surfaces do allow for more noise, bumps and knocks, but it’s not really obtrusive Fuel economy comes in at or about 9.5L per 100 kilometres.

To sum up, not a lot to complain about. Buyers do get a lot for the money even in the base RVR. And of course, there is that unbeatable warranty. Mitsubishi; a 10-year or 160,000-km limited powertrain warranty, plus a five-year or 100,000-km limited new vehicle warranty. It is the best in the business with five years of unlimited-mileage roadside assistance. No other car company offers that.

2020 Mitsubishi RVR: priced from. More info at: www.mitsubishi.ca