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 The Endeavor's four-speed automatic also became quickly outdated in a segment where five- and then six-speed transmissions became the norm, bringing with them enhancements to performance and fuel economy.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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  Move over Honda Pilot - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Chad Arnold - March 28 - 3:26 am

  I cant be more happy with my 2004 Endeavor. I researched both the Honda Pilot and the Toyota 4Runner / HIghlander. What I found was I can have a new SUV with a beautiful ride, sleek look and plenty of comforts AND not get killed in the pocket. The AWD system has been an added pleasure. The 315 Infinity system has a gorgeous sound. The ride is very smooth with minimal road noise. The warranty is out of this world. The look of the interior with the LCD displays and blue lit backgrounds are both futuristic and beautiful with a nice metal finish. Not having the 3rd row seat is a drawback for some. I dont need it. It also makes the 2nd seats roomier and provides nice cargo space. A lot of vehicle for the money!

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  terry - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By tralic - March 27 - 8:26 pm

  The ride is extraordinary. The seating is very comfortable and the interior design is a work of art. All controls are convenient. The smoothest SUV I have ever experienced

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  Great SUV! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By gabby - March 25 - 6:53 pm

  I have had my Endeavor for 4 years now and have 115,000 miles on it. It has been one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. It still rides very nice and I have not had any major mechanical issues. One problem with struts right after I purchased it, but that is all. I cant recommend a vehicle more for reliability and good looks!

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  A special vehicle - 2010 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Joe - March 10 - 1:00 pm

  The 2010 Endeavor is my second of the series. My first a 2004 was given to my daughter when I purchased the new one. I loved the first one, and have driven the 2010 about 4500 miles since buying it three months ago. It has all wheel drive plus all of the bells and whistles. I love the drive, the comfort and its many features, including the Bluetooth, back-up camera and navigation system. Prior to purchasing my 2010, I drove and priced the Pilot, Highlander and Veracruz. The Endeavor was clearly the best value and the most fun to drive. My hope is that Mitsubishi continues to produce the Endeavor. I have had two friends purchase Endeavors after riding in mine. A special vehicle.

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  The Sport in Sport Utlity - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Johnnie - March 2 - 9:40 pm

  The vehicle is very nice. I wish I had purchased the AWD version. The motor is so "torquie" that often I spin tires when trying to get going quickly. The seats are nice and the added comfort of driving a limited with side frame re-inforcements makes the vehicle seem more truck-like. This is a nice one indded but the usual inconveniences from a manufacturer like Mitsubishi are there too. Molding, Molding, Molding.....Stuff does have a way of popping off of this thing for seemingly no reason at all. Sunroof privacy cover handle, radio/ ac knobs...Screw covers in the luggage rack.. Still I have to say that I love mine and would buy another without a doubt!

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  Wish I had two of them! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By endeavorlover - February 28 - 3:01 am

  This vehicle has been the best I have ever owned. We bought used with 21,000 on it now here it is 2015 with 109,000. We have had up keep that is normal for a car this age, brakes, belts, hoses, shocks, etc. we also have had to replace the water pump, and all bearings on the axles. I would drive it across the U.S. Today without hesitation. It still doesnt use oil. Have always run synthetic oil since we owned it. It still runs like a sewing machine. We will keep it until we have it towed off hopefully many years from now. If you find one well maintained, BUY IT! Is very safe and dependable. The AWD is invaluable for rain, snow, and ice.

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  Endeaver Owner - 2006 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By blues clues - February 25 - 10:43 am

  I haved owned a Blazer, Trooper and Montero prior to buying my 2006 Endeaver. I have found the Endeaver to be the most fun to drive and user friendly of them all. It is extremely easy to move the seats front and back, and has it has the power needed when traveling throughout the state of Arizona with its varied terrain and altitudes. It is the first vehicle that has had all the features of a SUV with the ride and handling of a passenger car. I would recommend it to anyone shopping for a mid-size SUV.

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  After 30K, Still Luvn it... - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Starfather - February 13 - 2:03 am

  Broke 30K today on the 04 Endeavor, my favorite car still. I have averaged 19 mpg, mostly at 65 on hwy, have had only two problems, both under warranty and fixed right away. First was odd whistle, sounded like belt but was actually something in drive shaft. Second was fuel injector sensor, they replaced injector. I installed K&N air filter, rear mud guards,and a standard black steel mesh screen for lower air intake, to keep rocks out of radiator, Great car!

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  Best Vehicle We Have Owned out of 29. - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Mike - February 4 - 4:16 pm

  Bought my wifes 2004 Endeavor new in Oct 2003 for $26k (great price!). Has 311,000 miles now. I do 95% of maintenance and keep up with everything regularly. I change the Mobil 1 synthetic oil every 6k miles of mostly HW driving (23.5k a year). Wish I could buy another one just like it. The only issues were the A/C condensation leaking into the drivers side floor and the P0431 code for catalytic converter slow to warm which causes the check engine light to illuminate. For the AC fix, I had to remove the seats and carpet and clean everything then added the extension hose to the A/C drain under the SUV per the TSB. All is fine now and has been for many years. One set of Firestone Destination LE tires ran 100,525 miles! I wish it didnt need premium gas. Best vehicle we ever owned. Plan to drive another 100,000 miles or more. We will buy a new SUV around March as a back up vehicle since we paid off our house after 18 years.

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  I picked a winner - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By cdimarzo12 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This car is not only pretty, it rides and handles better than my Buick LeSabre. Jusst try to do a little better with fuel consumption.