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 The Endeavor's four-speed automatic also became quickly outdated in a segment where five- and then six-speed transmissions became the norm, bringing with them enhancements to performance and fuel economy.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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  No reason to look anywhere else - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By abbey - October 20 - 10:00 am

  This was the best buying experience ever due to the quality and professionalism of our sales rep. The last time I bought a car was 10 years ago, so I was very apprehensive. I looked at a couple other SUVs and was totally sold on this one. The comfort and aesthetics of this vehicle are unbelieveable. Its more than what I was looking for. We drove it home that night - why look anywhere else?

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  Lovin my Endeavor! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Lisa F. - October 13 - 10:00 am

  I love my Endeavor! I have 2 kids and we have a built in DVD player. It is fun to drive and gives the four of us the room we need.

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  Love it - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Gary - October 11 - 1:06 pm

  My 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavors ride is secure and stable. The road noise can be a little harsh, but I feel safe in this vehicle. The versatility has been useful, carrying everything from groceries to furniture. My only beef with the vehicle is the premium fuel requirement.

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  Greate SUV - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Manneth - October 7 - 2:00 am

  This is my second SUV and when we test drove it, just fell in love with it. The handling is very good. The engine is a V6 with with enough hp for its size. Lots of leg room in both front and back. I have to say it does drive very much like a car with a very smooth ride. This is truly a driving machine.

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  My favorite all time car. - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By ArkShe - October 1 - 2:00 am

  For the last 8 years I have gotten a new card most ever year or year and a half. This is my favorite all time card and will not be traded any time soon. Handles so well, easy to get in and out of, does great in the wind.

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  Endeavors Advantages & Disadvantges - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By GMO - October 1 - 2:00 am

  Excess oil usage, adds approx 1 1/2 quarts between oil changes, discovered blue smoke coming from tailpipe, dealership unable to pinpoint problem, averages approx 17 miles on the highway. However, smooth ride, very comfortable & fun to drive, but concerned about reliability, will trade- in after 2 years.

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  Mitsubishis Underrated Endeavor - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By James M. Conn - September 20 - 10:00 am

  The Endeavor is underrated by all consumer publications because it is reliable, fun to drive, powerful, has good fuel economy, and is pruced $2000 to $4000 less than other SUVs in this group. P.S.- I drive 30,000 miles per year in this vehicle.

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  Excellent Value - 2007 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By TAG - September 12 - 5:46 pm

  My wife and I have driven ours over 3000 trouble free mostly highway miles. Were more pleased with our purchase now then when we rolled it off the dealers lot. This is a very good highway vehicle. One of my biggest concerns about a vehicle of this type was how well it would handle cross-winds and truck wash. Well it is no longer a concern. Its the most stable vehicle Ive owned in those conditions. This SUV should not be the well kept secret that it is. The Endeavor is a must drive for those in the market for a mid-size crossover that dont require a third seat.

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  2004 Mitsubishi Endeaver - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Joanne Pearson - August 9 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Endeavor last year after driving a rental and love it. Gas mileage is not bad, absolutely no defects after taking delivery. I like the drive, comfort and get up and go. Drives great even in dry sand at the beach. The split back seat is handy, we even hauled a twin mattress in the back and closed the door. Lots of room, extra outlets for electron devices and I cant say enough good about it. Short drives and long - great for both.

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  I love my Endeavor - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Dawn - August 8 - 6:20 pm

  I have only had my vehicle for 45 days, but it has impressed me with the lack of rattles and squeeks. For a V6 in really has a lot of get up and go. I am very pleased with my purchase.