Overview & Reviews

When first introduced, the Mitsubishi Endeavor earned a surprise win in an Edmunds comparison test of midsize SUVs. It won with a combination of good looks, torque-filled engine performance, smart handling and excellent (for a crossover) off-road performance. Complaints were limited to some questionable styling elements and material choices in the cabin.

As time wore on, however, the competition was refreshed and redesigned, while the Endeavor remained stagnant. The availability of certain features increased and there were some minor styling changes for '09, but the body style, powertrain and interior carried on without improvement or update. It was an analog entry in a digital world. As such, it is hard to recommend the Endeavor unless you're looking in a low price range that corresponds with this crossover's earliest years.

Most Recent Mitsubishi Endeavor
The Mitsubishi Endeavor was produced from 2004 through 2011. It was a midsize crossover SUV that sat five people and was based on vehicle architecture shared with the contemporary Galant sedan and Eclipse coupe.

Throughout its run, the Endeavor was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 225 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive and a four-speed automatic transmission were standard, but all-wheel drive was available. While this engine yielded reasonably energetic performance, it started to seem down on power as its many competitors bulked up over the years. The Endeavor's four-speed automatic also became quickly outdated in a segment where five- and then six-speed transmissions became the norm, bringing with them enhancements to performance and fuel economy. On the upside, we found that the Mitsubishi Endeavor handled well both off-road and on throughout its life, though newer rivals did eventually better it by a considerable margin.

The cabin was dominated by a center console covered in silver-painted plastic that seemed stylish in 2004, but quickly became garish. The silver thankfully gave way to a more muted black eventually, but the rather strange design was maintained. More importantly, the Endeavor could never be had with a telescoping steering wheel or a reclining rear seat -- features that became the norm in the class. A third-row seat was also not available. Its maximum cargo capacity of 76.4 cubic feet was decent for a midsize crossover.

Initially, there were three trims: base LS, midlevel XLS and top-of-the-line Limited. Shortly after its debut, the Endeavor was updated as a 2004.5 model. Midyear changes included the addition of daytime running lamps, dual-stage front airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system and 10 more hp. An antilock braking system became available on LS two-wheel-drive models. This midyear upgrade also included standard front-seat side airbags and a leather steering wheel for the Endeavor XLS. New options included a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and stability control for the AWD Limited. Shoppers looking at a used '04 Endeavor should only consider the updated version.

The XLS was dropped in 2006 and the Limited trim was replaced by an SE trim for 2007. Newly available features for '07 included the navigation system and a Rockford Fosgate stereo. However, the rear DVD entertainment option was eliminated (sorry, kids). The Endeavor was on hiatus for 2009 but returned the following year with some minor exterior styling updates. It also gained standard Bluetooth and a rearview camera that was bundled with the optional navigation system. Those desiring all-wheel drive were also forced to step up to the SE trim level. From 2007-'11, the SE was still the only way to get a sunroof, rearview camera or navigation system.

On the safety front, side airbags became standard on all models in 2005, and used shoppers should definitely note that antilock brakes were optional on base models until '06. Side curtain airbags were added to the standard features list in 2007. Traction control became standard across the lineup for 2008.

User Reviews:

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  2004 Endeavor - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By nwa39564 - December 8 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a SUV but wanted something that sticks out as unique. I went to the dealership to buy an Outlander, but once my kids and I test drove the Endeavor we all fell in love with it , it drives like a dream, it is so quiet and very roomy, it has been a wonderful car so far.......

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  Super SUV - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Don Vito - December 2 - 2:00 am

  excellent, fun to drive, very reliable, quick, the best SUV I have ever owned....recomended highly!!!

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  Best Value! - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Russ - December 1 - 3:43 pm

  I have owned several domestic and import SUVs, this is by far the best value! The ride is second to none, quiet and powerful. I love the techtronics shift, it is more responsive than the one in my wifes 2006 VW Jetta. The Endeavor has solid, in control feel over the road, be it twisting back roads or the highway. It has a solid SAFE feel. Its handling in foul weather is superb. The cabin is very comfortable. I love the milage, you do not need a V8 to get performance, this vehicle seems to have adequate power towing my 17 boat. I am very pleased and purchased this vechicle after driving the Toyota Highlander, Honda CRV and Pilot, Ford Explorer and Ford Escape. My Endeavor was the best buy!

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  Great Value, best used SUV around!! - 2007 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By bobcat57 - November 19 - 5:59 pm

  Just purchased it, much better deal than 2007 Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. Rapid depreciation in firts three years but holds up welll after. Top notch reliability, comfort and build quality.

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  Under-rated - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Mayham - November 14 - 12:33 pm

  I acutally purchased my Endeavor in the Fall, 2003. It was a great value at the time and I have not been disappointed. This is a neat mid-SUV with all the amenities that I need without extras I wont use. I love it! This is my third fourth Mitsubishi and I will continue coming back...they are well built vehicles for much less cost than competitors.

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  Best Overall - 2007 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Brooks - October 19 - 1:16 am

  I have test driven all of the competition and found that the Endeavor is unparalleled in comfort and ergonomics. If you are searching for an SUV that is an all around great bargain, search no further. I still cant believe all the standard features and 10yr/100k warranty at this price! It is definitely worth your time to test drive one.

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  Endeavor in Vancouver, BC - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Lancetroy - October 3 - 4:03 am

  Performance-wise, this SUV is outstanding. I like the car-like handling and of course, as most of you know by now, its torquey 225-hp engine.

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  Never again - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Last Mitsubishi Ever - September 21 - 8:53 am

  Early on the wipers made horrible noise. Then the Drive shaft went out and had to be replace. Today took it in and the transmission is out at 64k miles with regular service. Too much trouble and poor service. CD player only works half the time NEVER AGAIN

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  Mitsubishi Endeavor - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Ed Curtsinger - September 8 - 10:00 am

  The only two pitfalls are with the use of premium gas, and when you try to ride with the rear windows down, at a speed above 35-40, strong vibration like wind sound which is annoying, makes it almost impossible to enjoy the ride. Other than that, WE LOVE THIS VEHICLE!

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  I was sold, where do I sign!!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By McCloskey - September 2 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Endeavor for 8 months so far I have had to replace the rear differential (service bulletin) due to between 25-40mph nioses that sound like they are coming from engine. The acceleration is EXCELLENT. The price wasnt bad, I test drove the Pilot I just didnt like how it ran. Once I drove the Endeavor I was sold.