Overview & Reviews

Debuting a few years after the start of the new millennium, the first-generation Mitsubishi Outlander was a late arrival to the small-SUV segment. Like many of its peers, it had a car-based design that translated into good handling and a comfortable ride on paved roads, but limited off-road capability. With so many competitors, Mitsubishi tried to set the Outlander apart with distinctive styling and a sporty demeanor. Compared to popular models from Honda and Toyota, however, the older Outlander models offered less interior space, and their breathless four-cylinder engines failed to live up to Mitsubishi's sporting image.

These problems were addressed in the larger second-generation Mitsubishi Outlander, which gained more interior space and an available V6 engine. Even so, the Outlander still lives in the shadows of its more successful contemporaries, whose reputations for overall quality and reliability are well-known to consumers. In spite of its lower profile, the second-generation Outlander is a competitive small SUV. It has the available all-wheel-drive system, high driving position and versatile cargo space consumers have come to expect in this segment, and sets itself apart with distinctive styling, advanced technology and a lively personality.

Current Mitsubishi Outlander
The Outlander is available in three trim levels: ES, SE and GT. Outlander ES and SE models are powered by a 168-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder, while the GT receives a 230-hp 3.0-liter V6. Four-cylinder Outlanders come standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the V6-powered GT uses a traditional six-speed automatic. Both have manual-shift capability. All Outlander trims are available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The AWD system is notable for its various configurations that allow drivers to select 2WD for maximum fuel economy or 4WD Lock for maximum traction in slippery conditions.

The base ES is equipped with air-conditioning, CD player, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a full array of safety features and an auxiliary audio jack. The SE adds alloy wheels, keyless ignition/entry, a sliding second-row seat, a third-row seat and upgraded upholstery. The GT gets automatic xenon headlights, automatic wipers, automatic climate control and upgraded interior materials.

Many options are grouped into packages and include a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver seat, Rockford Fosgate audio system, the Fuse hands-free electronics interface, a rearview camera, a rear-seat entertainment system and a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic updates.

In our reviews, we've praised the Mitsubishi Outlander for its energetic V6 engine as well as its family-friendly design and moderately sporty handling. Negatives include a ride quality that may be too stiff for some and second-row seating space that is merely adequate. Passengers in the third-row fare even worse, as that seat is frighteningly flimsy, very thinly padded and cramped even for small children. We wouldn't recommend using it. Overall, buyers seeking value, style and fun-to-drive characteristics in a package that doesn't sacrifice daily usability will find the Mitsubishi Outlander to be a decent choice, but we'd recommend that you consider its competitors.

Used Mitsubishi Outlander Models
Debuting for 2007, the latest (second-generation) Mitsubishi Outlander introduced a few key attributes that the original lacked, namely V6 power, a third-row seat and additional cargo room. Three trims were offered initially -- ES, LS and XLS -- and all were equipped with a 220-hp V6 engine. A unique option was the navigation system whose hard drive provided 30GB for music storage.

For 2008 Mitsubishi added the SE trim and the current car's four-cylinder engine. The LS trim was deleted the following year, while a back-up camera and a larger hard drive for the navigation system debuted. Besides the 2010 styling revamp, the V6 received a slight increase in power along with an update to the AWD system.

For 2010, the Mitsubishi Outlander received a major refresh that included new aggressive styling inspired by the Lancer Evolution X. Other changes included a new LCD gauge display, real-time traffic for the navigation system and an available "Fuse" hands-free link system with audio streaming and voice commands for MP3 players and cell phones. Mechanical changes included a slight power bump for the V6 engine (to 230 hp) and an upgraded version of the all-wheel-drive system. The XLS trim was dropped for 2012.

The first-generation Outlander was sold from 2003-'06. Dropped into the highly competitive small-SUV category, the Outlander had unique styling, a carlike ride and comfortable seating for four, but offered few advantages over the more established competition.

In its first year of production, the Mitsubishi Outlander was powered by a 140-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission. Around-town power was adequate with this setup, but Mitsubishi's compact sport-utility proved quite sluggish in passing and high-speed merging situations. A jump in hp to 160 for the 2004 model year helped somewhat, but the Outlander's engine still wasn't a match for the smooth and potent four-cylinders in small SUVs from Honda and Toyota, much less V6-powered Ford and GM models. Throughout the first-generation Outlander's run, both front-wheel-drive and AWD versions were offered.

In addition to the LS and the XLS trims, Mitsubishi added a high-line Outlander Limited trim in 2005, with unique interior and exterior trim enhancements as well as leather seating. Also significant for '05 was the addition of a five-speed manual as the standard transmission on the LS. Highly observant customers may also notice the slightly revised rear styling introduced during this model year.

In 2006, the midlevel XLS was replaced by the SE trim level, while base LS and high-end Limited trims remained. That model year also saw antilock brakes and side airbags find their way to the list of standard equipment for all trims. Models prior to 2006 reserved those safety features for premium models, making older LS-trim Outlanders less desirable for used car buyers. In general, we would advise used-car shoppers to look at '04 and newer Outlanders -- unless, that is, you find that you like the less powerful original engine more than we did.

User Reviews:

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  Loving It - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By cd - November 4 - 11:33 pm

  Ive had it a little over 3 years now, been consistent with my regular maintenance and have not had one issue with it -- its been great through all the crazy weather CT throws at us -- heat, cold, rain, snow, ice. For its size, it gives you enough of a height above the traffic to make you feel comfortable but not feel like youre in a tractor trailer! Definitely am happy I made the decision I did and "loving it"!!

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  A Lot of Car for a Little Money - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By TKO - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I have only had the car for a short time, but I haggled about what to buy for three weeks, test driving all kinds of cars. The only one I could compare this drive to would be the Subaru Tribeca, which was like $5,000 more expensive and took premium gas. I dont think you could get a vehicle filled with more features that drives as well as this for the same money. Dont be scared off by the estimated gas mileage either, I have been averaging around 22 MPG, which is not that bad.

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  Outlander 2003 - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Karian - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Gets out in Traffic very well and takes hills better than expected

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  Great Crossover - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Gooch - October 26 - 1:16 am

  I bought a 2006 Certified Used Outlander AWD. I got the 100,000 mile powertrain and 5 yr / 60,000 mile bumper to bumper, no deductible warranties. What other car company has a warranty like that! ZERO.. I had a 1998 Ford Explorer with 50,000 miles prior to the Outlander. I put over $3,000 in repairs into it in the last two years. I was looking for a quality vehicle, I found that in the Outlander. I am sold on Mitsubishi. The Outlander is a great crossover vehicle, it is fun to drive and handles great. I live in Western PA and the winters are nasty. I feel 100% safer in the Outlander than I ever did in the Explorer and the AWD hardly has to kick in.

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  My First Mitsubishi - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By arelle20 - October 24 - 5:36 am

  So far, I am pleased with the handling of my 2010 Outlander. The 3.0V6 is nicely responsive on both city streets, as well as on the highway. Fuel economy is not as indicated on the brochure but that may be the result of my somewhat aggressive driving. With the 230HP powertrain, its so easy to enjoy the thrill of experiencing "G-force acceleration" without breaking any laws. We havent had much snow in our area, so cant say much about the 4WD except that I can hardly wait to put it through its paces.

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  A Very Good Car! - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Stephen - October 16 - 6:36 am

  Im from the Philippines, where the xls is known as the "gls sport". Its a nice cuv, with good suspension. The roads here are not too great, but after a long drive, I dont feel beaten up. Also looks good, & people turn whenever I pass by. The cars sound system is also good, and I dont have to buy anything extra just to enjoy my cds. A lot of new friends are impressed by the exterior & interior looks of this car. It was a toss-up between this and the forester, and i have not regretted my decision in choosing over this one. the fuel consumption is ok, esp on long drives.

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  8 months of ownership - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By brbrskss - October 11 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Outlander for 8 months and have had no problems with it at all. Complaints would be less than stellar gas mileage at around 20mpg, and a paint and clear coat that seems to scratch quite easily. I just came home from a 2000 mile road trip, mostly highway driving, and the trip with my wife and two kids was quite enjoyable. The car was a little cramped with all of our stuff. Part of the trip was in very heavy rain at over 70mph, and the Outlander AWD held the road with no problem. I love the cupholders, the powerful Air Conditioning, the cruise control, and the stereo. All things considered I would buy this car again,

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  Best deal around! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By usafwifey - October 7 - 12:41 am

  I purchased my Outlander used with 58,000 miles on it. I have put 2000 miles on it since then and I love it! This car is the best deal in its class! I shopped around for about 3 months before purchasing this car and looked at a Nissan Rogue, Xterra, Kia Sorento, and a Santa Fe previously. The Outlander is able to provide the best quality, most fatures, and best reliability for the money! I have a feeling my next car will be a newer Outlander!

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  Young Family Car - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By ihab.salem - September 26 - 1:36 pm

  This car is very practical for small/young family. Its smooth, quick, not feature rich but do the required. Average cargo space, very comfortable with more than enough legs, head and shoulders space for 5 adults (or 2 adults, 2 child, and a baby seat). As I am living in a very hot country I found the AC is very effective in summer. The automatic gear is very responsive. I tried many other SUVs nowadays (e.g. Acadia, Pilot, Explorer, etc) and cant find any match to its powerful & responsive brakes. I was near the Oman tsunami in 2006 (in Sharjah Emirate) and this car saved me from drowning in water in low streets while similar SUV drowned (CR-V, Sportage, Vitara). But very low MPG in city.

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  Great driving - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By xe2ac - September 22 - 5:40 pm

  After doing a careful driving tests with competing brands (Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra). The best driving experience was with the Mitsubishi model I decided for this vehicle because I rarely drive on dirt roads and needed more cubic space than the Toyota. The CRV and Xterra are driven by a lot of women and the Outlander has a more muscular view. Problem on my city is the large amount of speed bumps and a lot of rugged asphalt which the suspension filters out very well.