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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  Buy this car, NOW! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By pirateofthecaribbean - July 16 - 10:00 am

  This cute, petite car is perfect for any person to consider buying. The outside design is great, and very comfy and roomy inside. It is the best car in my garage!

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  Great Overall SUV - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By DriveALot - July 15 - 2:03 am

  Bought my deep blue metallic with 3 miles on it, 2.5 years and 66,000 miles later this is absolutely a great vehicle. Seats do get a little uncomfortable after a bit of driving. Set the cruise and I get about 27 on highway and 19 around town, V6 front wheel drive, thats pretty good. I call it my Pack Mule, fold the rear seats forward and theres plenty of room to load everything from a set of bunk beds to a six foot ladder. Done all the preventative maintenance and its never missed a beat

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  The Best - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Adam - July 7 - 11:10 pm

  The 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander is a very nice vehicle. I think its the best.

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  Cant Get Enough! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By exodeaux - July 5 - 3:16 am

  Simply put, I am happier with this vehicle than any I have ever owned. I highly recommend the Outlander LS. Quick, agile, roomy, and head turning. This baby is beautiful and sporty. Ive shown it to three of my friends so far, and all three are headed to the dealer tomorrow to get one. I simply cannot say enough about this beautiful piece of engineering. So much for such a great price!! I have to keep going out to the parking lot just to make sure its still there and I have to pinch myself when I remember it belongs to me. You will NOT be disappointed in this gorgeous, powerful, fun SUV. Get one today. It will honestly be the best purchase of your life.

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  XLS AWD w/ all options is a Great Car! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mitsuman - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Outlander since May, and I have enjoyed it ever since. No problems, very reliable. This is a well built, reliable car that is great for a small family. I have 2 boys and it works very well with the car seats. It isnt a rocket, but it is more than suitable for what its intended. We live in hilly, northeast PA and cant complain. Interior is very quiet and its great on trips.

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  mighty mite - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By barbie3 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I say that my Outlander XLS is a baby SUV that hasnt grown up yet. It has all the power of a large SUV but its not all big and bulky. Its super fun to drive especially since I can change between automatic and manual driving without the hassle of a clutch. It has a ton of interior room and that was a must as we are a family of 4 with a lot of hobbies. I was looking at the Toyota Matrix but Im so much more pleased with my Outlander.

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  Very Angry - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Italia Parisi - June 22 - 10:00 am

  When shutting the doors, the sound is very cheap. Mileage is way way way off what is claimed. Transmission already feels like it is slipping. Stereo sound is not clear. Fog lights are for appearance only, they serve no other purpose. All things considered I paid way too much for a 4 cylinder car. And I did my research on your sight!!! Shame on you.

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  Love at first drive. - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By John Crocker - June 22 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I have not had this vehicle for long but we just got back from driving it on vacation and we both love it. Plenty of power, low road noise, no water leaks, standard sportronic automatic transmission is easy to use and works great. My wife loves the style and has been asked about it by a lot of people when she fills it up. I cant keep her out of it now. This is the third Mitsubishi we have owned and they all have been great, a vastly under-rated brand. We checked the Toyota RAV 4 and the Honda CR-V also but the Mitsu beat them in the areas where it counts. If you want to stand out in a crowd try put this machine on your shopping list.

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  Underpowered - 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Wally - June 20 - 1:33 am

  Outlander is a nice vehicle but is sluggish to drive. To upgrade to a 6 cylinder brings the price up too high. There are other vehicles available for less money. Also to get the safety options you have to pay more. The base models dont have them.

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  Ladybug - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gulati - June 17 - 1:03 am

  Our XLS AWD is Rally Red, and aptly named Ladybug! Wasnt so sure about leaping for a SUV, having driven cars for nearly 30 years, but the Outlander is very responsive and easy to drive. Not so sure about reliability yet, but after 20 years of sturdy Mitsus, Im not terribly worried. Only concern would be mpg, but the trade-offs - comfort, utility, safety - seem to make it all worthwhile.