In keeping with the sporty image, the up front seating offers supportive,
yet very comfortable, buckets. The center console houses the shifter, emergency
brake, mandatory cup holders and storage for small items. Both models have
illuminated vanity mirrors in both of the visors. However, speaking of
visors, we were a little surprised to note the absence of extension panels
to keep the sun from sneaking around a lone visor and zapping the driver
right in the eyes. It's a small omission, but it seems inconsistent with
the Diamante's otherwise high standard content.
The Diamante, like all cars in this class, has plenty of space up front
for legs, hips, elbows, shoulders and head. Thanks to its increased size,
it also measures up well in rear seat space, although here the dimensions
rate as average. Child-seat anchors are standard on all Diamantes, and
an integrated child safety seat is available as an option. Diamante is
one of the few cars to provide a three-point seat belt/shoulder harness
for the middle passenger in the back seat.
A peek inside the glovebox brought forth the owners manual which was
a pleasant surprise. It seems exceptionally well organized and quite readable
compared to some from other manufacturers, which are so filled with attorney-driven dialogue as to be nearly useless.
The engineers and product planners decided not to confuse the issue
with powertrain or driveline options. They simply offer their best effort,
a 3.5-liter V6 which produces 210 hp at 5000 rpm and enough low end torque
to make for easy departure from a standing start. This is essentially the
same V6 that propels the much heavier Montero sport-utility, and it yields smooth, respectable
punch harnessed to the much lighter Diamante.
The V6 is paired with an exceptionally smooth-shifting four-speed automatic
transmission that includes Mitsubishi's Adaptive Transmission Control Management
(ATCM). What this means is that the transmission's computer controls are
capable of electronically learning the driver's style and modifying the
shifting strategy to gain optimal performance and fuel efficiency as well
as smooth power transitions.
Lifting the hood reveals a tidy, well laid-out engine compartment--as
long as it's daylight. Night inspections could be a problem, however, since
there's no light under there, another small but puzzling omission. It seems
even more inconsistent in contrast with the thoughtful battery housing,
which is completely encased. It isn't often that a battery actually blows
up, but they do sometimes ooze acid at the posts and with this approach,
the engine compartment is completely protected from that caustic substance.
While the ride is soft and compliant enough to please luxury car passengers,
the suspension is stout enough and responsive enough to be able to handle
twisty-turny roads competently. Although the Diamante's overall dynamics
are skewed in favor of comfort, the feel is firm, controlled and contemporary.
And braking performance is consistent with other cars in this class.
Vision is good from the driver's seat, too--no big blind spots to hinder
or annoy. And with controls and gauges well placed, the car feels comfortable
and pleasureable to drive as well as responsive.