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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  First SUV after 2-doors coupe - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By ironvet - October 24 - 10:10 am

  Bought it second hand after arriving in Dubai. It is a small one compared to the others going around here. Very nimble driving at speed, but CVT transmission should be more responsive. Very comfortable and often we use it in place of the big Mitsubishi Montero we also have. The Outlander drives and feels like a car and I get most times 27mpg (highway) although mpg is not an issue here.

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  Saved our Lives - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gail - September 20 - 4:06 pm

  Our Outlander saved me, my daughters and her friends lives! Tonight we were in a terrible car accident where I went into a ditch and my truck flipped over three times! We all had our seatbelts on, the back windows shattered OUT the car, the sides got bangged up, but the doors never caved in, the roof and hood were badly smashed. When people passed the vehicle, they were horrified...and could not believe we were alive! I am going to buy another...as I feel it truly saved us....I give it a five star safety rating...thanks Mitsubishi!

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  Wow! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Alvey - August 23 - 9:03 am

  The Outlander an amazing vehicle all around! It has lots of room, the back seats recline and move forward, and back and best of all is it has a left hand cup holder for the driver right by steering wheel! The doors are hard to close and the u-joints are not very good, but other than that, this is an awesome vehicle. It is so cool. The third row seating is perfect for a young family!

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  Old reliable - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Ellie - August 23 - 3:13 am

  I bought this car because the year-end price was too good to refuse (despite not being crazy about the ext styling), but am amazed at the reliability. Almost 80k miles on it and only oil changes/checks & recall replacements. Now needs a new battery. Roomy interior, comfortable on a 2k mile trip. Gas mileage better than expected (average 23-24MPG overall).

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  Great commuter, not bad comfort - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Gattor - July 30 - 3:16 am

  This car is great for commuting and could be more comfortable... went on many long trips with it and its good... I would consider buying another newer model in future.

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  outlander - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By cristine - July 24 - 2:00 am

  I love my Outlander, it handles really well, it;s very comfortable and great to run around and do errands in. The height is just right for getting in and out. I find all the controls easy to use, and the sound system is great. My only complaint is the gas mileage. Its not that great but maybe thats becasue everyone in my house wants to use it all the time.

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  Great lil SUV - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By TJ - July 5 - 7:13 am

  Just purchased my wife the XLS AWD w/ navigation. After reading a lot of expert reviews I was skeptical. But most of the complaints were that the V-6 was slow and the interior was really cheap. I would agree that the interior is not the most expensive materials used, but they are lighter weight and help reduce the total weight of the vehicle. We have no complaints with the engine, I mean its not a dragster and it has plenty of pep. I am 604 and am able to sit in the back seat easily even with the driver seat all the way back. The stereo and navigation system are awesome, truly. Very hard to beat Mitsus warranty and safety rating. Much bigger than it looks. All in all, great lil SUV.

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  Low price, good quality, fun to own - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By OutLander - May 12 - 10:00 am

  Lot of car for the money. Most of needed stuffs is standard equipment Interior is quiet and roomy. The 4 cylinders engine is ok, has enough power for cruising around town and freeway. Reviews from Edmunds.com, Car&Driver ... said its underpower. I guess whoever drove test this car maybe living somewhere in the mountain region? But it will be nice if Mitsu give us a choice of V6 or 4 cylinders with turbo as an option. Audio control buttons are too small that reminds me of Walkman stereos button. I pick this car out of my shopping list: Rav4,Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute.

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  Happy Purchase - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By sarah - April 12 - 1:43 pm

  When I was looking through possible vehicles to purchase upon a move to snowy Minnesota, I met with a dealership that found the Outlander would match my needs. While I wasnt a big fan of the outer appearance, it was nice to look at a car that wasnt exactly the same as all the other small SUVs. I ended up buying the car after checking out some of its competitors (i.e. CRV, VUE, RAV4) and have found my Outlander to be a terrific buy. I think it is very comfortable, with a simple, clean interior. I would recommend this car to someone looking for a smaller AWD vehicle.

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  Stay Away - Major Paint Defect. - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By nathanas85 - March 24 - 3:33 am

  I researched for a mid-size SUV and upon my reviews test drove the Outlander, Nissan xterra, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Honda Pilot. I found after test driving the Outlander test drove more like a smooth sports car. I fell in love with the diamond black exterior paint and the spacey interior. Overall a great vehicle to drive, per performance wise. After one winter the paint chips near the rear panel on both sides of the vehicle. I have read other Outlander owners with the same problem, a paint defect, after I purchased the vehicle. I contacted Mitsubishi about the problem and just like other customers with the same problem, Mitsubuishi doesnt honor their warranty on the paint defect.