A 5-speed manual continues to serve as the base transmission, though you can also team the Outlander Sport’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a CVT gearbox. Mitsubishi says the optional automatic is now smoother and provides sharper acceleration. The suspension has also been retuned for a smoother ride – though we’re hopeful this pint-sized crossover retains its sporty flavor.
After three years, the Mercedes-Benz GLK gets a round of revisions and a new diesel-powered model added to its lineup. We’ve always enjoyed the blocky design of the GLK, which expertly mimicked the exterior of its big brother, the full-size GL-Class. The new GLK adds some extra power, in the form of a 302-bhp 3.5-liter V-6 engine, along with fuel saving features like a standard stop-start function.
Available in front or all-wheel drive, the GLK350 goes on sale in August. The wait will be slightly longer if you prefer the GLK250 BlueTec, the first diesel GLK to make it to the U.S. A twin-turbocharged 2.1-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers 190 bhp and a substantial 329 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel economy and a long driving range will be the forte of the GLK250 BlueTec when it arrives, most likely early next year.
