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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  Much better than Ford Edge - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By James - June 20 - 10:00 am

  This is my 1st brand new SUV and I am very impressed by how it drives. Not to mention the unbeatable standard "BUMPER TO BUMPER" warranty not just the transmission like all of the American SUVs.

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  Outlander paint problems - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By brad - June 20 - 3:33 am

  Bought 07 Outie as alternative to Rav4. Liked a lot about the Outie - value, exterior and interior styling, instrumentation, sliding rear seats, tailgate and fun to drive temperament. Not bland. Thirsty in the city, unable to get mileage #s anywhere near what Mitsu quotes, however very happy with highway economy. Paint chipping is something terrible. I have driven vehicles for half a year before first chip, this car had significant paint erosion after a couple of weeks city winter driving pavement. Rocker panels and rear wheel flares need to have some rock guard and durability agent put into the paint. Took vehicle to Mitsu dealer after two weeks ownership and 100s of chips to no avail

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  My new 07 Outlander - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By rcpax - June 12 - 9:23 pm

  This SUV has everything I can ask for, and much more. The engine gives a good response, the handling is superb, and the tech toys are abundant. this truck is way more than I would imagine for the price. The overall package for the price cannot be beaten by any competitor. The Outlander has all the qualities I could want for an SUV.

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  A hidden gem - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Sid L - June 10 - 7:03 pm

  First off - I have never reviewed a car on edmunds before but I want buyers to do justice to this car before coming to any conclusions based on the edmunds expert review. This is not a luxury car but gives a near luxury feel based on features provided. Safety test results are at the top most tier - IIHS top pick + also A sub 30K car that gives you forward collision warning , lane departure warning amongst other features is a no brainier. Most Japanese and German cars have this only on highest end models that are easily 40-45k plus. Mitsubishi has a best in class warranty. A practical 7 seater with excellent mileage & sufficient acceleration.

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  super fun! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mdt - May 27 - 2:00 am

  We havent owned our Outlander for long, but we sure are enjoying it. Its peppy off the line, despite its 4cl. engine. But the extras we got, and the way cool looking body, make up for that. If you are looking at a CR-V (like I was), take the time to test out an Outlander.

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  Nice in some areas, but with important shortcomings - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By kgl1 - May 23 - 5:30 pm

  We have leased 2 Mitsubishi Outlanders 2012- a full size 7 seater (4cyl) and Sport model. Both have 4wd systems. The value is very good, that was by far the best lease deal on any suv we could find, and they also gave us the best deal on our trade-ins we could find anywhere. We liked the overall appearance, features and the test drive experience of both cars. the fact that in one of them there are 7 seats, and it is a full 4wd makes it already quite unique. Everything is good and fun about these cars, but 3 important areas: fuel economy is way below the advertised, especially in the city. Cheap, easily stainable/scratchable plastic used. CVT transmission is noisy and slow to react.

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  Grandma loves her Outlander - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By angela - May 22 - 11:40 pm

  I love this SUV - have owned it for 15 months. Shopped/researched many brands. Almost bought a VUE or Equinox, then discovered this! What value and so stylish! I often take it to the mountains and it performs beautifully, even in snowstorms!! The gas mileage is fab - my best was 29.4 mpg. I love the display and information panel. Feel safe (both me and my grandkids in the back seat with air bags, especially the curtain and side air bags. Haul lots of stuff - the fold down rear seats and tail gate are great features.

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  Great Job Mitsubishi! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By New Mitsu fan - May 21 - 3:20 am

  I love the Outlanders peppy V6 engine. It has a quiet ride and is fun to drive. It also has a great suspension, not too firm, not too soft. It comes with lots of features such as keyless ignition and Bluetooth that are not even available in other makes at this price. It is switchable between FWD, AWD and 4WD. Who else offers this at this price? It has fantastic build quality. Its made in Japan with 100% Japanese parts content. After owning Toyota, Mazda, and Nissan products, Ive got to say Im impressed with the 07 Outlander. Mitsubishi really did well with the design of this product. I can see why this outsells the RAV4 in Japan.

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  Loving it! - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By cenitdunit - May 20 - 5:46 am

  Very close to a luxury SUV. Great features, very comfortable and a smooth ride. Best Bang for the Buck.

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  Sleeper SUV of the year - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By DD - May 10 - 6:26 am

  After gas hit $4+ we decided a big SUV was no longer an option for us and traded our Mitsubishi Montero Limited. After driving an Outlander demo for the weekend, we picked an XLS (need 3rd row seats) and had them add dealer installed leather. This allowed us to forgo the forced combo pkgs and pick the primary features we wanted. Having driven large SUVs for many years and having a Honda Accord for our "other" car the Outlander is a pleasant complement to our familys fleet. We enjoy the overall stability, quality feel, and overall look of the car. Before you buy an SUV you owe it to yourself to drive one of these.