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 The Endeavor's four-speed automatic also became quickly outdated in a segment where five- and then six-speed transmissions became the norm, bringing with them enhancements to performance and fuel economy.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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  Converted! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By yyhr - January 1 - 10:00 am

  The dealer had to really talk me into even test-driving the Endeavor. Once I did, I was SOLD! It has all the advantages of an SUV yet drives like a car. Its loaded with conveniences that are not essential to driving, but just make car ownership easier. The only drawback is that premium fuel is required.

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  What a Vehicle - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By dan41 - December 26 - 10:00 am

  Well, after several months of research and test driving a number of other SUVs/Cross-Overs, we kept coming back to the Endeavor because we realy liked the styling, the interior, fit and finish and the way it handled. We were also impressed with the value compared to the others ( especially, when you consider the current $2,000 rebate ). By far, IMO, the Endeavor is the best in its class. This, at first, was difficult for me to accept because I am a big fan of both Honda and Toyota. I currently own of new Lexus and, although I have never owned a Mitsubishi product, I must say that we have been absolutely thrilled with everything about the Endeavor.

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  Getcha one. - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By djm028 - December 20 - 2:00 am

  Fairly good bargain, solid handeling, comfortable, stylish, adequate power, gets alot of 2nd looks from passerbys.

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  Love the Endeavor - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Donna - December 19 - 2:56 pm

  I drive 40 miles round trip to work, city driving, highway, stop and go all the way. The endeavor has had quite a few recalls, all of which I was notified about and service was provided without problems. My endeavor has 90K on it now and I hate the thought of trading it although it would only be a on a 2011 model Endeavor. Unfortunately it is in the shop now. I dont have the final details but it appears to have transmission problems. The warranty says drivetrain coverage 10 years/100K miles. Fingers crossed.

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  Love my Baby! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By taterlove - December 10 - 12:16 pm

  So we bought My Baby this time last year and have been in love with it! Right after purchase we did have to take it back to get the back tailgate fixed, it kept poping open. But the gas mileage and the driving and the handling is just amazing! There is noise with having the sunroof open, but I love having my music on so it doesnt bother me. Also, it fits 3 full size carseats! My friend has a 4Runner and cant do that! Weve taken her halfway across the country and loved it! I just cant express how much I love my Endeavor!!!

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  Upgrade to FWD Limited - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By coalgirl - December 3 - 10:00 am

  The Endeavor has it all!!! I dirve a lot on the highway and the comfort is unbelievable. Im looking at upgrading to a AWD and the Limited Endeavor is beating out the Honda, hands down.

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  Love this SUV! - 2006 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Mr. Mike - November 29 - 12:03 am

  My wife and I purchased this SUV several weeks ago. So far we really love it. Its quiet, fast, handles like a luxury car (thats a good thing), and has a great transmission. The sound system is very good and I love the display in the dash. I cant believe Mitsubishi is not selling these things as fast as they can build them. The dealership was willing to give us 1% over invoice and 0" APR on the loan. Its incredible that such a great vehicle is discounted so much. My wife and I laughed all the way home. And we love that warranty! Plus it got a great rating in Consumer Reports. Thats always a MUST!!

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  35,000 mile review - 2007 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By TexasGal - November 7 - 5:43 pm

  I previously owned a Mitsubishi Montero Sport which I drove for 10+ years. Hated to get rid of it so I thought another Mitsubishi would be a good purchase. Gas mileage has been 18 mpg consistently, less than what I got in my MS (which was 19-20 mpg). It it a bigger SUV. Seats are comfortable and great room inside. I have used the back for moving large items and have taken several trips with dog crates so if you need cargo storage, this vehicle can handle the load. Because I loved my Montero Sport so much, I do compare the two vehicles.

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  Taking it to the mountains! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By AndyAdams - October 21 - 10:00 am

  IN July we drove from Florida to Burnsville NC. THe Endeavor handled the mountains beautifully! We couldnt have been more pleased. From there we went to Findlay, OH. Overall, we put 3,ooo+ miles on the Endeavor. Never once did we have any handling problems or difficulties of any kind. The cruise control worked great! There are a few design problems, but overall, I love my Mitsubishi.

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  Solid SUV Great Used Car Valu - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Brian Auld age 61 - October 13 - 8:40 pm

  Purchased 2004 AWD in 2008 with 50,000 miles , now at 114000 and have only done a timing belt. Call me lucky? Not even the brakes. From Oregon to Hawaii and back, most of it left outside and still looks great. Love the view of the road, with the small windows in the A pillar to see the sidewalk and kid on bike about to cross in front of you. Just test drove a Chev, Traverse and felt like I was in a cave. Negatives,Retarded instrument panel, light blue on gray/silver next to impossible to see as the driver. Heater strong but finding the air flow setting takes 2 people. Tire wear is even and not excessive No leaks or malfunctions in sunroof or other windows. Ride can be choppy due to the short wheel base, and this is a car that needs to be driven at a safe speed. Swerving at 70 mph on wet pavement would get dicey. Look for a well cared for used and it is a tremendous bang for the used car buck.