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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  Paint problems - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By bruce - May 19 - 1:53 am

  While I am generally happy with the 2008 Outlander with regards to performance and comfort, I am very unhappy about the paint on the exterior. This car is not even 6 months old and it looks like every kid in the neighborhood has been throwing rocks at it. There also is a body shape design flaw that allows road debris to sand blast the front of the rear wheel fender. Mitsubishi has disappointed me with their attitude of "too bad, so sad" when I bring the subject of paint durability up with them. I would not buy another Mitsubishi because of this.

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  Painful Like-affair - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By 20vcq - May 13 - 8:43 pm

  I want so much to like this vehicle. Drives well under 140 kmph and gets very floaty and a little twitchy over that. AWD is not up to quality and useability of either Subaru or Audi - not by a long way. But its o.k. Road noise is higher than I would have expected and clangy doors are a disapointing sound. The auto transmission is my biggest disappointment. 6 speeds and paddle shifters are cool but the constant downshifting and that annoying 400 rpm drop after every downshift makes long trips less than as enjoyable.

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  Best Kept Secret - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By JayWa - May 9 - 4:50 am

  My Outlander marks the end of a long search to replace my 1995 Aurora. It stomps the Toyota Rav4 and Honda CR-V on looks, warranty and practicality; it is more driveable and gets better mileage than the Dodge Dakota; and it has more usable storage than the Dodge Magnum with much better visibility. Performance is not what I enjoyed with the Auroras V-8, but the Outlander has acceptable zip (on regular gas) and gets better mileage - almost 22 mpg on my daily in-town/Interstate commute. The 650-watt stereo and 10-inch subwoofer are fun to show off, but if you arent into rap then I would suggest you stick with the standard system and use the extra $$ to take this on a vacation.

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  ES AWD Review - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Cosme1 - April 26 - 12:06 pm

  This is my second day with this "CUV" and can tell already (as long as no problems come up) that it will be in the family for at least the next 5-6 years. Its comfortable, rides smooth, and it has all the space in the world as far as cargo. We test drove the comp. (rav4, santa fe, equinox, forester) and this was it - the Outlander took the prize.

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  Very Satisfied - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Caroline - April 10 - 6:00 pm

  I bought my Outlander about 6 months ago, after months of researching and test driving several small SUVs including Toyata Rav4, Honda CR-V, Chevy Equinox, and the Saturn Vue just to name a few. I am not disappointed. Although the 4 cylinder lacks initial get up and go power, once its going the Outlander provides a very smooth, sporty, fun drive. Having driven a Landrover before, I am loving the fuel economy! Im averaging about 24 mph in the city, on a recent 8 hour trip I averaged about 32 mpg/hwy. I would have paid thousands more for the options I have, the SE model comes loaded with a lot of unique amenities the competition just did not offer. Overall what a great buy!

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  Great Improvements from the previous year model! - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Priji Eapen - April 2 - 10:46 pm

  I owned a 7 seater Outlander 2014 before. When I did a test drive of the 2016 model, I was quite surprised to see the improvements that Mistubishi made in the 2016 model. Ive noticed a considerable reduction in outside noise and vibration. They’ve made significant improvements to the performance of the vehicle as well. 2014 Outlander lacked the responsiveness you’d expect when you press the gas pedal. Mitsubishi addressed this issue and new model is much more responsive compared to the previous year models. Ride comfort is also better. Although not significant, improvements to the interior and the steering wheel are also adding to the overall improved appearance of the interior. 2016 Outlander is fun to drive. Although the the third row seats are not ideal for adults, it serves its purpose when we have to occasionally transport 7 people in a single car. I’d say there is room for more improvements. However, this is definitely a step in the right direction for Mitsubishi. Hope they keep improving the Outlander to make it even better. I feel that the SE model offers a great value for the price you pay for the vehicle.

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  It is a fun truck to drive - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Chris Holder - March 26 - 2:00 am

  The biggest drawback is I drive everyday on The Baltimore Beltway I need more power to get up to speed. Once up to speed and hopefully not getting run over, this truck is quick and very responsive. The braking is very good and the handling in wet or slick driving conditions is great. The consumer reports say that the cargo area is the smallest in the class. I can put four fat guys and all their golf bags in the truck. So much for little to no space

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  Reliable as the sun coming up in the morning - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Gary Bovee - March 12 - 9:58 am

  IN 9 years no repairs except brakes. Fast and reliable

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  good car!!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By rknap - March 3 - 10:00 am

  This car is the only car bought in 40 years that had no problems requiring repair or adjustment!!!!!!!!!

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  my first - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Eric Fleming - January 31 - 10:00 am

  i bought this car a few months ago for my wife, and i have since fell in love with it. we plan on taking out on camping trips very soon. i would recommend this car to anyone looking for the conviences of an all around SUV with utmost in styling and design. not to mention the price.