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 The Endeavor's four-speed automatic also became quickly outdated in a segment where five- and then six-speed transmissions became the norm, bringing with them enhancements to performance and fuel economy.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 2004 Endeavor - August 24 - 4:53 pmGreat car, awesome performance, feel very safe and secure. Fuel economy is moderate. We have 86,000 miles with without any major problems. Steering column noise at 25,000 miles, dealer replaced under warranty. Interior minor plastic parts have broken off and dash board windshield vent has warped. Overhead cam oil distribution causing cam to temporarily ping during cold weather start up <50 degrees. Overall, very satisfied customers.
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Navigation System for 2010 - 2010 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By Hank - August 20 - 12:33 pmI am very disappointed in the Navigation System with the 2010 Endeavor which still has 2006 MAP DVD in a 2010 car. How can you call a car 2010 when you have 2006 parts in it? I phoned their head office in California asking when they will get an update but their reply was that they have not determined when the new map will be done. The dealer agreed to buy a new one once it gets in but no one can tell me when that will happen. You would need to decide whether to spend the extra money for 2006 Navigation System on your new 2010 Car. Beside that 2010 Endeavor is a great car to drive.
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Very, Very, Very Nice Vehicle - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By Girlie - August 13 - 10:00 amNice comfortable, firm, sturdy, solid and smooth riding SUV. Excellent on long trips. Stereo system is awesome. Rear passengers would be more comfortable if the rear seats could recline some. Some road noise and please dont open just the two rear windows, it will really hurt your ears. Otherwise, very satisfied.
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Mostly Happy So Far - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By Jim F. - August 6 - 10:00 amThe buying experience was excellent compared to five new purchases in the past from other dealerships. The Endeavor has met all of our expectations with the exception of mileage. The ride is excellent.
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Great Vehicle - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By kmbc - August 6 - 10:00 amI just traded in my Montero Sport Limited for Endeavor XLS. What a difference. This is a great vehicle. My only regret is not getting the Limited model.
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Best in its class - 2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By AyRuGO - July 23 - 1:20 amSmooth ride. Very comfortable. Got more engine power. More leg room. Drive like a car. Dont need extra luxury items on it. Love the warranty!
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The Best - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By armando nicholas - July 12 - 2:13 pmMy wife and I were searching for a SUV for a good three solid months. In terms of price, safety, warranty, and comfort this is the best in its class.
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A Great Vehicle! - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By Glenn Gliponeo - July 5 - 5:20 amI love driving. Getting behind the wheel, blasting a great stereo, feeling real power when you press the accelerator at the turn of a green light, and knowing you wont tip over when you make a sharp turns. The Endeavor is perfect. It has all the power of a Porche (I know, its sounds like an exaggeration, but just drive one...youll see), the roominess of a bus (now theres the real exaggeration), the feel of a space ship, and the stereo system! Man, that stereo just simply rocks! It is clear, cool, easy to operate, has crisp tones, and great acoustics all around. Overall, this vehicle is a 100 on a 10-point scale. Getting an SUV? Drive this!
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Awesome Car!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By Frank jones - June 15 - 5:52 pmI bought mine in 2012 with 127,000 miles, still runs amazing! No major repairs on it by us or the previous owners. Only problem weve had is the air conditioning leaking back into the car but was quickly fixed by the dealer. Does excellent in snow/ice!
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Best Car I Have Ever Owned - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
By Capt Zams - June 12 - 2:00 amI bought this car for my wife after buying a 2003 Outlander. I love everything about this car. The ride is similar to a big Audi or Mercedes and the acceleration is better than the Audi A4s Ive owned in the past. Combine the performance with the great utility, luxury and safety and this car is in my opinion the best SUV on the market.
