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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  Compact SUV for cheaper price! - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Tom - January 9 - 5:23 pm

  We didnt really expect the power on this car since it is only a 4 cylinder but its a great car for the city. We like its rear where it is easier to open unlike Rav 4. We also like that this vehicle is not so up high. My wife is short and we also have a Tacoma so this is a good car for her. Stereo system sounds great. More room for small family. However, the highway ride is a bit rough and noisy. I am so used to my Tacoma. The power mirror control is a bit out of reach when trying to adjust during the drive. I also agree with some other reviewers that the radio needs to be closer, maybe on the steering wheel. Interior material for LS is a bit cheap but the seats can be covered up.

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  Great Value for Money! - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By jaybruinboy - January 8 - 8:30 pm

  I purchased a 2005 Outlander LS 2WD a couple of weeks ago, silver, with the Convenience Package. Ive driven it over 350 miles around Los Angeles, and so far I have mostly very good impressions of it. First, the looks-- nice lines, definitely not cookie cutter, and somewhat broad shouldered for a small SUV. People do ask what it is and take a closer look. Also, it does not have a spare tire hanging on the tailgate (which could bring you great grief if you get rear-ended). It will definitely not be lost in a sea of look-alikes at the parking lot. The iInterior looks great -- it should have a sign that says "designed by Kenneth Cole." Driving impressions--more than enough power, quiet at cruise. Nice!

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  I love mine - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By OutlndrLvr - January 7 - 2:00 am

  My Outlander is my baby. I have never been happier with a car/suv and Ive had a few now. Its classy looking, comfy and stylish on the inside, gets excellent gas mileage and is a decent size for a compact suv. I have the XLS and love it. I thought about the sun & sound package (sunroof/Infinity sound system) so that I could get the Infinity sound system but opted against it after hearing the comparable factory system. I wont say its Infinity, but it is a good system nonetheless. The price was more than reasonable. You also get a nice ride out of it and I find mine pretty quiet-never have to raise my voice to talk to other passengers.

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  Outlander - Great Ride/Drive - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By bigdaddyhow - January 7 - 2:00 am

  This is a very driver friendly vehicle, especially in the city. Quick acceleration 0-30, but 4 cyl not ideal for two lane passing. One of the better body styles out there in its class. About 25-26 MPG highway which is pretty good considering.

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  Excellent Value - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Pete - January 5 - 3:46 pm

  Ive had my Outlander for 3 weeks and so far I am very happy. I have the luxury and s&s packages. The ride is a good balance between sport and comfort. I like the exterior and interior look. It has tons of features for the money and is very versatile.

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  Tops all small suvs - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Becky Peterson - January 3 - 3:43 am

  I love my Outlander. Ive had it for 7 months and have just about 10k miles on it. It was awesome in the snow with the 4wd option and has plenty of clearance. I love the smart key! The stereo is exceptional and I love the 6 disc cd changer! The only thing that makes me a little crazy is the air leak noise when the sunroof is CLOSED. This vehicle is fun to drive and easy to maneuver. I wish I wouldve purchased the V6 but I was being careful with the gas mileage.

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  Great Little SUV! - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By tmo411 - December 25 - 3:05 pm

  I just got my Outlander recently, but Ive put 500 miles on it already. It handles great, and the V6 is very smooth. It also has a nice engine growl when you gun it a little. I got the GT model, but without all the bells & whistles. The stock stereo has a 6-CD changer, 140 watts and 6 speakers - plenty for my use. The seats are cloth centers with leather backs & sides - they felt more comfy than the full leather. You can aim the HID headlights, and theyre really bright. I love the paddle shifters, too. The back seat has plenty of room for my 6+ sons to sit in, so they like it.

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  Wonderful SUV - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mastersarge - December 22 - 10:13 am

  The Outlander was purchased just before the great snow storm of 2010 in DC: Could not be timed any better. The Outlander rode on ice and snow as though the roads were clear and free. Handling is as good as you expect from a SUV. The sound system is wonderful and the finish is perfect. All the controls are easily accessible and conveniently located. The only item we wish we had: a compass. great feature: how many miles left on a tank of gas.

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  2004 Outlander - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Rockford - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Love the Outlander, but the mileage leaves alot to be desired. We get 20 city and 23 highway. Is this what others are getting?

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  Disappointed - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By john - December 7 - 11:20 am

  I bought this vehicle brand new thinking I was getting a good deal since it was the last 03 in town. Well lets see, the catalytic converter has been replaced, as well as they entire air conditioning system-which you can only buy the parts from the dealership. Also the cv-joints have been replaced and I only get 16mpg- combined city and highway. You would think it had 100k plus miles, but I just traded it in with 67k. There was no power, touchy transmission, a super disappointment to drive. I also felt every bump in the road and it was so uncomfortable. Also my partner was 64" and his knees hit the dashboard and he could hardly drive it. It was cramped and a huge disappointment.