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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  Good but not perfect! - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Piper - August 2 - 5:16 am

  Now that I have 5 month of driving on my Outlander, its time to put a good review. First, the inside insulation is not at the top, your ear a lot of road noise and the exhaust system is a bit noisy. I get an average fuel economy of 18-16 in the city and 22-24 in the highway driving. Its a great suv during the winter season, you feel secure driving around. The seat are comfortable but a lite high. The warranty is great but after driving it for a couple month, if I had to choose for my new SUV now I would not choose this one. Before buying test drive it for a day or two, you will see what I am talking about.

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  Suspension worry - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By davebeat - July 12 - 4:56 pm

  I have owned the vehicle for only 6 weeks, but have subjected it to all manner of tests and scrutiny. It has only done 106,000 kilometers, looks immaculate inside and out, is very comfortable, handles well and is perfect in every respect bar one -- suspension (or shocks). No one can find anything wrong, yet while very smooth on good roads, smallish bumps and accompanying road noise suggest very rigid suspension. Is this a characteristic?

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  The truth - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Marc - July 5 - 3:53 pm

  Owned car since nov. 06/1500 miles was one trip. Owned Mitsubishi before so stayed with brand (no problems). Had hesitation problems but service bulletin cured that. On road trip car is outstanding just sit back and put on Cruise and front wheel drive (28 mpg) around town not impressed with mpg or noisy motor, like all available features (best bang for buck). I have had no problems with this vehicle at all, what you see and hear when you purchase is what you get. I was rearended at 40 mph (car stops on a dime) and lower tailgate still opened, car took impact really well. My main pet peeve is the interior fit and finish are starting to look sloppy/lazy. Where`s that quality Mitsubishi?

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  my new outlander - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By dougboy - June 23 - 2:00 am

  I just bought it but am impressed with comfort and quality overall. Does lack power when punched but seems ok if i just let it climb on its own. For the money i think it is very good in its class.

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  Fundamental flaws - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Seth - June 22 - 4:13 pm

  Vehicle has all the bells and whistles but does not have any useful features that dont cost much such as 1. Telescopic steering wheel or rather the lack of it. Cannot find a comfortable position even with arms stretched out and seat pulled forward, and I am of average size 5 10 with a small paunch. 2. Zero Cushion in leather seats for better distribution of pressure and back support. 3. Arm rest too low and useless. 4. No sound deadening materials. Noisy is the word. 5. Suspension makes for an extremely uncomfortable ride. Every undulation in the road is sent straight to drivers spine. 6. No door inserts or soft dash. Just a sea of hard thin black plastic.

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  Unsatisfied - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By outout - May 13 - 9:33 pm

  My 07 Outlander has excessive wind-noise...the worst I have seen in any vehicle. The wind noise just gushes inside the cabin. I just keep wondering how Mitsubishi spoiled an otherwise great vehicle with nice value and features, because they did not take care of small things like proper cabin insulation.

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  Mitsubishi weekender - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Nopamo - April 20 - 12:16 pm

  Bought this outlander in October and it has been a perfect fit since. I was looking for a car like suv and found outlander fitting in utility and price. It has fit into our lifestyle as a weekend and vacation get away mobile. Its perfect as a secondary car especially when you want to give your daily commute car a break. The money youll save could be used on enjoying your destination. Our outlander is adequately powered for getting here to there. All the necessary comforts for the drive are present including a more than comfortable and roomy passenger space. Four medium sized people will seat very easily. Five is do-able for shorter trips. Back seats recline, but will sacrifice cargo.

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  Good Value, Nice Ride - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By SF Paul - March 30 - 2:00 am

  This Outlander made an immediate impression on me and my wife. The first thing that stood out was the fit and finish of the interior. Nothing about this car feels or looks cheap. Looking at the front end it has a more aggressive appearance, but the rear end doesnt seem to match. The performance is good for a four- banger. Its nimble on the curves, and 160 horses come in handy when passing or getting on the freeway. On smooth surfaces the road noise is nominal and youd swear you were driving a six. Engine noise is nicely buffered too. Im averaging around 22 mpg with plenty of city driving. The mpg drops if you use the Sportronic shifter.

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  Almost but not quite - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Deborah Garcia - March 21 - 12:23 am

  The third seat is difficult for children of any age to get into. The seat belts are impossible for 4 year olds to get on by themselves and impossible to reach from outside the car! There are no charging ports Back there and the cup holder is only on one side. The 7th seat belt is a joke. The paint is a very low quality, it has already chipped all over the hood, my car is 6 months old now but i noticed it 2 weeks after purchasing. I emailed the salesman, he did not respond, went in to talk to them but they pawned me off on a manager that acted like it was normal, its not. So disappointed!

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  Love - Hate - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Flerurp - February 15 - 4:20 pm

  Noisy at times, front suspension geometry is lacking - watch those corners at speed!