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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  Very Satisfied - Great for Price - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By northsidefan - January 27 - 4:50 pm

  For the little extra money, it was worth upgrading to the SE model. The only feature that I wanted and was not included was a power moonroof. Otherwise, I am very happy with the purchase.

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  Outlandish - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By T.CAGLE - January 25 - 1:26 am

  I have only owned my 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander for a month, but I have been thrilled with it. It has quite a bit of pep and handles really well. I have been fairly pleased with the gas mileage. I am not disappointed with buying the vehicle I would recommend the Outlander to anyone looking to buy a small SUV. And it just looks tough!

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  Mitsubishi has raised the bar - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By LuvMyOutlander - January 24 - 12:03 pm

  When I started shopping for a new car this fall, I never in a million years thought I would buy a Mitsubishi SUV. BUT... I did and I love it. Mitsubishi has raised the bar! This vehicle blows away anything else under $30,000. I wanted an Acura RDX, but couldnt swing the price. This truck gives me most of the features, almost the same performance and size at $10,000 less. I first read about about the new Outlander in InsideLine. I waited for a dealer to get one and then drove it. I loved it! I loved the features, the looks, the interior, everything! For a die-hard Honda/Acura guy like myself, the fact that I bought one, should tell you just how good it is.

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  Mitsi Outlander is a good choice! - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By suvluvr72 - January 23 - 10:00 am

  We intended on purchasing a Ford Escape. The salesman said we couldnt afford it, even w/2 trade-ins. We were disappointed. We liked & checked out the Honda CRV & Nissan Xterra. We took the Outlander for a 24hr test drive. It actually feet like a 6cyl! The exterior is similar to the Lexus RX300. I got used to the interior, not much to look at. We liked the Pontiac Vibes interior better, but it sounded like a wind-up toy. The Outlander has a nice amount of space. You dont see too many on the road. Purchased for $21,000 & 5,000 miles + warranties.

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  Comfortable midsize SUV - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By tosha - January 23 - 10:00 am

  I have not own my vehicle for long, but this week has been very exciting. I love that this SUV is not to big. It is comfortable enough for my family and I.

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  Happy with it - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gamedad - January 21 - 4:13 am

  Ive had this vehicle for slightly more than 2 yrs now. Had some minor issues when I first got it. The initial acceleration was a bit delayed but was fixed with a re-programming, about a 6-months wait. The side-view mirrors were rattling a bit and a cap beneath it was loose and fixed. The only thing not fixed is a delay when shifting from Reverse to Drive. Theres always a couple of secs delay and will cause a lurch if the shifting is too fast. Ive verified that this is not a problem on other vehicles. Other than these 3 minor stuff, it is a fun car to drive. Very responsive to acceleration after car is in motion.

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  Best Features for the Price - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Sean R - January 17 - 2:36 pm

  Ive had my Outlander XLS for almost a week now. I compared it to the Escape/Milan, Nitro, CX-7, and a few others. For the price you pay, this truck has some nice features. The FAST key is one of the coolest things. It allows you to lock/unlock, and start your truck without ever pulling the key fob out of your pocket. Great idea! The nav/stereo system is nice and easy to operate, and loud when you need it. Bluetooth hands free for the cell is a nice touch. Rear seats not only slide forward and back, but also recline. Plenty of room all around, and Im 63", 240. Engine power is just fine, and in-town mileage has been at 20 mpg so far. No telescoping steering wheel, though.

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  the best - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By dan lee hill - January 2 - 10:00 am

  we love it ,, it is the best car we have ever had,,,

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  Just bought it - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By nicole - December 31 - 3:36 pm

  I drive 30,000 miles per year in all kinds of weather. I needed cargo space and 4wd. This was the most reasonably priced, least ugly vehicle in this category. I never buy new, but finding something with low mileage wouldve cost me close to what this cost me new. I dont expect luxury in this price range - and I sure didnt get it, but its decent looking, inside and out. Im not thrilled about the velour cloth seats, I dont think theyll hold up. Dash and side interior panels are a weird textured rubbery material that seem to mark up fast. Maybe some protectant will fix that.

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  Special Edition means just that. - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By John Crocker - December 28 - 2:50 pm

  We have had our new Outlander SE 4WD for exactly one month and close to 2000 miles now with absolutely no problems. The number one priority for ourselves, and many other drivers right now, is fuel efficiency. The Outlander has delivered just what it promised with a mixed city / local driving average of around 25 MPG. For a vehicle that size and weight, sometimes carrying 2 - 4 people, that figure is more than acceptable to me and I feel it may improve even more when the engine is completely broken in. Cant wait to check it out on an interstate road trip. With good fuel mileage and the rest of the package working flawlessly, Id rate the Outlander as a smart choice.