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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  2007 Mitsubishi Outlander - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Johnny Appleseed - January 15 - 1:56 pm

  The V6 engine is strong, but hard acceleration off the line results in heavy torque steer coupled with tires (Yokohama) that do not provide enough traction for the amount of power this vehicle delivers. Ride is silky smooth, but a bit loud by todays standards. Steering column controls are good as well as climate controls, but radio controls are too small. As deeply inset as the speedometer and odometer are, they still have glare when sunny. Seating is comfortable, but cloth is thin and feels cheap. The 2nd row seatbacks are a bit low for adults, but they recline and move fore and aft for added comfort. Front and rear armrests are too short even for average size adults.

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  Great car - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By jerry37 - January 11 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I were quite impressed with the styling/ design of this car (inside & out). The engine performs well on both city and highway driving and its got enough zip for merging/ passing. The ride is comfortable and the cabin is very quiet for such a small car. Having downsized from a 00 Mazda MPV (which we loved) I must say cargo space is more than adequate for our needs. My only comment about the stereo has to do w/ the faceplate. I wish it was more customized (with more options) for this car and it did not look so generic. Otherwise, so far so good.

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  2004 Mitsubishi Outlander - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By 456654456654123321 - December 25 - 4:23 am

  We bought our Outlander new in 04. We have had 2 problems. 1, the power port stopped working. Replaced fuse and no good. 2. It stalls every now in then, and then it starts up fine. A few weeks later, it will stall and then be fine. Other than that, it has been a pretty good vehicle. We have been from TN to FL, TN to ME probably 20 times and the Outlander goes fine. If I could change one thing it would be the suspension. I think it needs to be a little beefier. With a heavy load, the front end gets light and it feels top heavy. Would I buy another one? Me no, my wife yes. I enjoy a bigger vehicle, but for the "soccer mom" it is fine.

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  Sharp Looking and Comfortable - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By walter - December 16 - 2:13 pm

  My 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander handles like a car, it takes corners nicely. The body looks like a mix of a BMW and a Lexus. The anti-lock brakes are a plus. Its mileage should be a little better though since its only a 4-cyl. It still has good pep driving in the manual way. The cargo area should be a little deeper and the back seats should lay flat. The storage in the dash needs to change, it needs to slant it so everything doesnt fly out when you take off. Overall, this is a very nice value for the money. Its sharp looking and handles well.

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  Almost there - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Edick - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I have 8000 ml and only problem I had - wheel aligment. Since the first day (tried to make make myself think, that the road is always drifts to the right). However the dealership was able to fix this, but since its so common issue with Outlanders, Mitsubishi has something to think about. Other than this there is only excitment and pleasure. Strong AC (live in Florida), comfortable driver seat, lots of room for rear passengers. Looks agressive, stable cornering and holds the road well.

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  A Bit Disapointed! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gardengroveguy - November 17 - 4:36 am

  This new Outlander is light years ahead of the outgoing one. It even rates above the new Rav4 and C-RV, in most respects. It is a better value, more stuff, and great quality. And here comes the "but!" This thing has the worse case of torque steer that I have experienced since I owned a 200 hp front wheel drive Fiat! Stomp on the gas and you better be holding onto that steering wheel, with both hands. And she wanders on the freeway, it feels like its up on tip-toes...wandering! And bring your Dramamine, because the rocking movements caused by diving when braking and accelerating will cause sea-sickness! Nice effort Mitsu...but you missed out on the important stuff...like being able to drive it smoothly!

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  Not a bad car! - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Annieb - September 19 - 5:03 am

  This is my first SUV and couldnt decide between the outlander and the Subaru Forester. Very, very close comparison. What put me over was the Outlander actually has better pick up (4 cyl) than the Subaru does. Seats are more comfortable on the Subaru (why do car makers not add lumbar support for all their cars?) The Outlander also has tighter steering which I prefer. Pound for pound, I feel the Outlander is a good car! So far, have not been disappointed. If you are considering a small SUV, dont rule out the Outlander.

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  I agree; do not listen to paid "expert" reviews. - 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By norfla71 - September 1 - 1:35 am

  Just bought mine last night; traded out of a 2017 Jetta S and what a difference! Frankly, I wanted the Outlander first but got a better deal on the VW; however, a good deal is not that good if you cant live with the car daily. We needed something bigger for road trips and box store runs that would fit a family of 4 and 2 dogs. After 3 days (2 night test drive included) we are over the moon, as they say. Had I listened to any number of negative reviews, rather than reading actual, real world owner reviews, we would have paid several thousand more for much less vehicle. The pros are awesome MPG (averaging over 35 combined, but I drive to keep the tree green), lengthy standard features list (especially in SEL trim, which is why it we chose it over a cheaper SE), comfort (front seats, ride, NVH; my 7 mile old Jetta already had a nasty rattle in the drivers door that no dealer could fix), great ingress and egress, very good infotainment system (base system rocks; IMO not worth upgrading to the optional system), easily garage -able and very good value for the dollar. The cons are mostly nit-picking; that smaller size limits interior space. However, we bought it knowing that 3rd row was not going to be used, and needed more space than the Sport model had (Sport also cannot tow, and we need that capability). It lacks all the current active safety features, which are included only in an expensive package. At least BSM and RCW should be standard. The camera lines do not turn unless, again, you upgrade to that expensive package, which included 360 surround. You have to take your eyes off the road to scroll through SXM folders as the wheel control will only scroll through whats on the current folder. Finally, there needs to be more info available in the dash. Even basic vehicles these days come with a minimal TFT screen, and it would be nice to see whats playing on the radio or what speed my CC is set at. Overall, as another review said, this is an undiscovered gem in a crowded market. Im hopeful the Nissan really infuses some cash into this brand, and cant wait to see what the next gen will look like (though it will, most likely, also compete in a higher price bracket, taking another affordable option off the market).

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  Nice Crossover - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By USMC VET - July 21 - 10:10 pm

  This Crossover is great. No major problems. I bought it used and it was in great condition. Handles well with great pick up on the Highway. The City MPG is bad but on the highway it is great. I am currently thinking about buying one for myself.

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  Good SUV - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By R C - June 22 - 2:16 am

  When I saw this SUV, I knew this was the one. It was different than all the other SUVs I had looked at! The interior looked like a German Interior and not Japanese. I really like our Mitsubishi Outlander, it has been a very reliable SUV. Performance is ok for normal drivers, but if your like me, theres not enough horsepower! My wife loves her SUV. It has been such a good vehicle, that Im going to buy a new Mitsubishi Lancer GTS for my daughter. Good luck!