2017 Mitsubishi RVR Review
The Mitsubishi RVR is a sub-compact crossover SUV that boasts a significant following in the Kenyan market owing to its good fuel economy, and ample cargo area, two factors that many people love to put into consideration before buying a car. The RVR nameplate is an acronym for "Recreational Vehicle Runner". Its exterior styling largely appeals to the young clientele who are after looks. In other regions, the RVR is marketed as Mitsubishi ASX or Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. As much as it has the perks of an excellent car, the RVR faces stiff competition from the likes of the Nissan Juke, Mazda CX-3, Honda HRV, and Subaru XV.
Detailed Review
2017 Mitsubishi RVR front and side view
Mitsubishi RVR commenced its first-generation production which was designated as N10/N20 back in 1991 and continued up to 1997. The N60/N70 marked the second generation of the RVR that was manufactured from 1997 and stopped in 2002. In 2010 RVR production resumed and it was classified as the third generation which is currently ongoing to date.
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR comes with one engine option, a 1.8 L (Petrol) linked to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
2017 Mitsubishi RVR grades
- Mitsubishi RVR Active Gear SDA Attachment 4WD- This grade comes with power windows, an anti-lock braking system, a central door lock, 4 speakers, brake assist, multiple airbags, and a hill start assist.
- Mitsubishi RVR Active Gear SDA Attachment- This grade features Bluetooth connectivity, a damping control system, an AM/FM Radio, a USB port, power mirrors, cruise control, and an anti-theft alarm system.
- Mitsubishi RVR Active Gear SDA Non-Attachment 4WD- This grade is fitted with child seat anchors, brake assist, xenon headlights, body-colored door handles, roof spoiler, and keyless entry.
- Mitsubishi RVR Active Gear SDA Non-Attachment- This grade has an engine start button, a centralized door lock, an Isofix bar, traction control, lane keep assist, a collision mitigation system, and automatic air conditioning.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR has a pretty basic interior, unlike its competitors which can boast a plush cabin. The first row has seats that can be reclined to accommodate a desired preference. The headroom and legroom are very decent. The second row has comfortable seats with ample knee room and headroom.
2017 Mitsubishi RVR first row
2017 Mitsubishi RVR second row
Cabin Storage
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR encompasses numerous storage compartments used to store or hold items like beverages, paperwork, keys, and other things. The first row has a center console, two cupholders, door panel storage, and a glove box compartment. The second row is fitted with door pockets, two cupholders mounted on the armrest, and a jacket pocket.
Boot Space
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR has a bigger boot space compared to its rivals. It can accommodate small and large goods simultaneously. To create more space, the rear seats can be retracted.
2017 Mitsubishi RVR boot space
Exterior
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR depicts an aggressive and sporty look at the same time. Its exterior styling matches very well with the preferences of both the young clientele as well as older people. In the front end of the RVR, Mitsubishi has maintained its dynamic design cues for there is a massive grille adorned with the Mitsubishi logo used to assert its supremacy on the road. LED daytime running lights and the swept-back xenon headlights lend the RVR an upscale look. The lower fascia incorporates fog lights as well as air vents.
The side profile of the RVR looks conservative from a distance but when you come closer you will see neatly done contours as well as the 18-inch alloy wheels that shout its presence. The roofline of the RVR is somewhat sloppy in the rear and this helps in improving the aerodynamics, just to add some flare to this vehicle, a roof spoiler is installed to enhance the RVR’s sportiness. Higher trim levels come with a panoramic sunroof which gives occupants ambient lighting.
The rear end features tail lights and turn signals. A reverse camera comes as standard to aid the driver when navigating in confined spaces.
2017 Mitsubishi RVR front and side view
2017 Mitsubishi RVR rear and side view
2017 Mitsubishi RVR Safety Features
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR features multiple airbags, traction control, hill start assist, lane keep assist, traction control, cruise control, anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, and forward collision mitigation.
2017 Mitsubishi RVR Fuel Consumption
2017 Mitsubishi RVR 1.8 L petrol engine consumption- 14.4 km/l on average
2017 Mitsubishi RVR Acceleration
2017 Mitsubishi RVR 1,8 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.2 secs
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR Fuel Tank Capacity: 63 liters
Ground Clearance: The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR has a ground clearance of 8.4 inches
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Mitsubishi RVR spares, especially body parts are not as easily available in Kenya and they are sometimes expensive. Service parts are fairly affordable and easy to find within Nairobi and other major towns.
Stability And Handling
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR is very agile and a pleasant car to drive in. Through its power-assisted steering wheel, it adapts very well to road curves, and this is well proved when overtaking on highways or when navigating in confined spaces. Its compact size allows it to easily maneuver in traffic. The RVR experiences minimal to zero body roll but it is always advisable to reduce speed when approaching tight corners.
The suspension system fitted in RVR plays its role very well as occupants enjoy a comfortable ride free from jerky movements caused by uneven road surfaces. The braking system is very reliable as it offers sufficient stopping power which helps to avert any kind of mishap.
The RVR comes standard with the Mitsubishi’s all-wheel control technology which enhances traction especially when driving on mud, sand, or gravel. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and decent acceleration. Traction control, electronic brake force distribution, and anti-lock braking system are all incorporated in this car to improve its stability.
2017 Mitsubishi RVR steering wheel & gear shift
2017 Mitsubishi RVR cluster meter
2017 Mitsubishi RVR engine
Reliability
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR is considered a reliable car. It has a high ground clearance that enables it to exploit off-road terrains. However, just like any other car, it is not immune to problems and breakdowns. Several RVR owners have reported transmission issues and timing chain tensioner trouble as the most common problems. Regular service and maintenance are essential to avoid experiencing such problems.
Refer to the Mitsubishi RVR buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Resale Value: Average
Mitsubishi RVR Competitors: Nissan Juke, Mazda CX-3, Honda HRV, and Subaru XV.
What we like about the 2017 Mitsubishi RVR
Good fuel economy
Spacious cabin
Ample cargo area
What we don’t
Very basic interior design
Conclusion
The 2017 Mitsubishi RVR has a flashy and sporty exterior design that makes it ideal to be used by commuters dwelling in urban areas. Its fuel efficiency and ample cargo area make it appeal to people who love long-distance drives and camping. Enthusiasts who value off-road driving can opt for the 4WD variant of the RVR for it comes with the Mitsubishi’s all-wheel control system that enhances traction so that you don’t get stuck on the terrain you are cruising on. The current market price of the RVR could be a toll order for people on a tight budget hence limiting them from owning this subcompact crossover SUV. Click here to download the 2017 Mitsubishi RVR Owner’s Manual.
2017 Mitsubishi RVR rear and side view
Get More With TopCar
If you have a question about this model or any other automotive questions, you can now get answers on our forum.
If you want to sell or trade-in you vehicle, you can list it for free via our seller portal.
If you wish to purchase this model local or abroad, you can do that via our marketplace.
