So I'm in the market for a second car. First kid is on the way and we want something bigger with awd. I've seen the 2010 pics of the GT version and have a few questions.

It says the car is lowered, is this going to be a higher performance model similar to the x6m vs x6? Will the non GT versions have 8.5in clearance? I live in a place with lots of snow and am not interested in a lowered vehicle. 8inches is minimum for my needs.

All new 2010 outlanders will have the same new front end I'm assuming with the new idel transmition feature?

Does anyone know when the 2010 models will hit show rooms? Do I buy a 2009 now or wait for the 2010 to be available and then either buy the 2010 or get a good deal on a new 2009? I'd like to have the vehicle by september/october at the very latest. Will I be able to get a good deal on a 2009 with the 2010's out or with the economy the way it is will I already get the best deal right now?

Lots of questions I know but I want this vehicle to last for at least the next 5 years and I've already spent countless hours researching what vehicle to get. I can't seem to find a better deal than the v6 outlander that offers similar engine performance and similar features. I did look at the forester but the 2.5l 175hp engine isn't doing it for me and they want a rediculous amount of money for the turbo version.

Thanks for any info/advice. This will be our most expensive car and also the first new car so we want to do this right and not buy a 2009 and only a month later have it lose thousands worth of value because a new model came out.

 

2010 Model will be like the 2008-2009 Lancer front end
you may view the pic at Autoblog

2009 and 2010 should be the same engine but different front end. it doesn't matter when you leave the Dealer that car is already reducing its value.

 

To be honest a lot of the questions you are asking about the 2010 models have not be answered yet, at least as far as what I've read. You could try talking to mitsu dealers in your area or even calling their 800 customer number to see if they can help you.

If I were to take a guess I think the GT model may be in addition to a more standard 2010 Outlander, but I haven't heard anything to indicate that.

 

2010 front end will be on all trims. The v6 engine for 2010 is said to have better fuel economy. Not sure if because of mechanical changes in the engine, or software optimization in the ECU. The new transmission will idle at N when on D and at full stop. It goes back to D the minute it senses the brake pedal lifted, this is said to contribute to fuel economy. The lowered height is just for show. The nice dash display is still in question if it makes final production.For your perusal: http://bit.ly/NTCAO

 

Well thanks for the info so far. I called the mitsubishi dealer and they wouldn't tell me anything either.

I honestly don't know what to do. Buy an 09 now or wait a few months and buy a 10 for the same money.

 

If this were me...I'd definately wait...in the few months it takes to wait for the new GT, I could be saving more money for the down payment....that could be a difference of several thousand dollars and a really low monthly payment.