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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  best mitsubishi ever - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By new jersey - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I researched and test drove many of the compitition ...Honda CRV, Toyota Rav4, Mazda Tribute, Suzuki XL7, Nissan XTerra & Murano, and Hyundai Santa Fe ...this was definitly the most appealing and attractive one to me. I definitly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for an affordable Compact Suv(although theres notting comact about it).

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  more power = more fun - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By bill - December 17 - 8:20 pm

  If this vehicle were equipped with a V6 it would be the perfect rig for me.Could also use a slightly heavier suspension.Tires seemed to be a car- type variety rather than a truck tire. Would also like to see a manual transmission option.

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  Outlander is Great - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By arjjm - December 15 - 3:10 pm

  The 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander is a great vehicle. It stands out in a crowd as no one around here thinks to buy one of these. We get LOTS of compliments on it. The XLS package is the only way to go and the dealer sold it to us for way below sticker.

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  Wowed and Thrilled! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By robcal1 - December 11 - 4:03 am

  I had a 2005 Toyota RAV4. I bought it for its "reliability, but I had so many problems with it! So when I saw that Mitsubishi had a new Outlander coming out I test drove it and got rid of the Toyota. The quality amazed me. I didnt expect it from Mitsubishi. I read all the time about Mitsubishi doing things wrong. I think theyre seriously underrated. Im very satisfied. I love the fast key. The Outlander is big, but its cool and the paddle shifters are NICE! The 3rd row is more for kids than adults. The a/c is amazing! In the previous review something was said about torque steer, I havent really encountered it at all. I could go on about this. Mitsubishi has REALLY stepped up on this one. You cant beat the price and warranty!

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  Outlander - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Robert - December 10 - 8:13 am

  After three years of fairly trouble free operation the radiator in my Mitsubishi Outlander blew causing the enigine to overheat and sustain further damage. The problem was with a defective fan controller known by Mitsubishi. They elected to cover the cost of all the parts, but not the labor. Is that good customer service? I dont think so. BTW, all this happened just one month after the warranty expired.

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  First Car and an SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Lily - December 8 - 12:33 pm

  I love the way the Mitsubishi Outlander handles on unpaved roads in good and bad weather, even in more than a foot of snow. It is roomy from front to back but could use a little more headroom, even when the seat is totally down. Also, its gas mileage could be better. It does zero to sixty in about 10 seconds which is sluggish in some situations but livable. It has a smooth ride at any speed. It is the first vehicle I purchased on my own and I wanted an SUV. I bought it used from a car rental company where it was well maintained. My maintence costs have been low. It is large enough for what I need and small enough that it is easy to park without taking up extra space. Sometimes it gets hidden behind other bigger SUVs in mall parking lots!

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  New Purchase - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Sibs - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Narrowed choices to the Outlander or the Honda CRV. Drove both. Did not like the CRV at all. Good pep, but why anyone would put the hand brake on the dash is beyond me. Didnt like the dash layout at all. The headrest on the backseat of the CRV almost completely blocked your view when backing. Wife and I both have bad backs. The seats in the Outlander are great. We like the dash layout. The Outlander had almost everything we wanted as standard equipment. Salesman was great. Look forward to enjoying the Outlander.

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  Better than expected - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Eric - November 29 - 4:43 am

  The Outlander has car-like handling with no bad manners. This vehicle is easy to drive, park and has good visability. I am very impressed with the quiet ride on the highway. There is no wind noise and the seats are comfortable. Its ride is stiff but very very solid. Its controls are simple. The 2.4L engine offers adequate power and is smooth. The transmission is also well matched to the engine and shifts smoothly, sport mode is great in town and with the cruise on it prevents downshifts. The stock 4 speaker stereo is average. The rear seats recline and that helps when installing a car seat. All Wheel Drive has no computer management like a Subaru but still helps in the snow. My truck has not had one problem in 25,000 miles.

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  Nice ride for the price. - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Eric - November 26 - 11:06 am

  I enjoy the room for its size. Decent gas mileage. Comfortable ride and great sound system. I have sun and sound package. I just wish the DVD would work when driving if you desired. Overall been real pleased with the performance up to this point. I took it on vacation and avg about 25.7 mpg. With five people loaded down and still had room for nice comfortable ride. I would recommend the Outlander to anyone looking for a sporty look in a cute ute class. Its has more room than I expected and it looks much better than the RAV4 or CR-V. These two are good in this class, but I like the looks of the Outlander. So far the performance has been up to par.

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  Amazing!!!!!! Oh my goodness! - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Dy - November 24 - 4:31 pm

  I recently bought the MITSU Outlander and it proved to be a great car. The GT was outstanding and it has some technology that the Toyota Highlander and Honda CRV does not have!! Plus it comes standard with the Rockford Fosgate sound system which sounds great!