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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  Much Better than RAV4 and CRV - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Great SUV - April 26 - 1:03 pm

  The XLS with all the options easily surpasses both the Honda CRV and Toyotas RAV4. It comes with features one only gets on much more expensive vehicles. Its exceptional value for money and looks great. I spent weeks researching small SUVs and am very happy with my purchase. This car is really a diamond in the rough.

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  V6 Outlander is Amazing - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By bayernforever - April 25 - 1:59 pm

  Please, do not listen to these reviewers who are trying to kill mitsubishi. I tested my new outlander 2014 for a week now and it is amazing. i have got the GLS V6 Model Biege Leather Inside. the quallity of interior is outstanding. This car is a little bit heavy when you start but after 40km/h it will goes very fast. I was driving on 160km/h and the car was very quiet. The Price of the outlander V6 Top of the line is cheaper than a toyota rav 4 standard edition. If you are still thinking of buying this car , go a head and save your money.

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  Great small SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By RCC - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Im 60" tall and have plenty of room. While I dont ride in the back, friend who are my height do with little issue. The one thing I liked about the Outlander was the exterior styling. While it is still and SUV, it looks more sporty than most. It definitely stands out. I also cant complain about he AWD. I live near Pittsburgh, PA and didnt have any problems in the snow this winter. The only thing I wanted that mine did not have of the lot was a sunroof, but I added a one-touch power sunroof and love it. I wouldnt hesitate to get another.

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  Great SUV!! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By john e - April 19 - 8:56 am

  After looking at several brands we checked out the Outlander thanks to Edmunds information. We love it. It is sporty, great fuel economy, handles great and has a killer sound system (optional 650 watt). She was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee w/a v8 and does not miss it. A Honda or Toyota this size will cost more and the Outlander is made in Japan!

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  Terrific little SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Lady Faire - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Read the reviews on this and other SUVs before I made my choice(s). Drove the Honda CRV and thought I had a winner. Went immediately down to drive the Outlander while the experience was still fresh in my mind and the Honda was totally blown away! The Outlander is more solid feeling, seems much roomier, is MUCH quieter on the road and handles beautifully. Some of the reviews I had read complained of a lack of zip or get up and go, but I have not noticed any problems at all. Jumps right out there with the big boys and keeps up just fine!

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  drives nice, but do not touch - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By ultrarunner - April 10 - 10:00 am

  this suv, but it is really a small station wagon, handles great, rides smooth, but scratches very easily. If you put a fingernail on it, you will get a scratch. if you buy one, get a light color like silver or white. Mileage is very poor compared to other similar sized vehicles. i dont think they were truthful saying 20/27. I get 19/22, if i donot run the air

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  Caution Low Power - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Edward77 - April 1 - 2:00 am

  Buy this vehicle only if you live in a flat area. The 4 cylinder engine is under powered for any type of hill climbing. We live in Western PA and the engine really strains climbing moderate hills.

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  exceptional small suv - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By renae - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Driving this suv was like driving a sedan. It not only handled well, but I had an excellent view from every angle. Some may say it doesnt have a lot of "pep in its step", but it wasnt a problem for me on the freeway. I would like in the future for mitsubishi to offer in its pck. an alarm system and auto on daytime running lights. I love my outlander and so does my husband, and yes I would purchase it again.

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  Amazing! - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Tabby - March 15 - 3:36 pm

  I just bought this car used a week ago. I love it, it handles just the way I like, like the Lancer platform it was built on. Hugs the curves just the way I like. Holds the road with almost NO body lean. Its incredibly fun to drive. My first SUV, and Im in love with it. Lots of room and plenty of cargo cubbyholes. Plenty of room for my big dog to ride in the back. I have the Sun & Sound package and I love my Infinity sound system. Great gas mileage for an SUV.

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  great - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By navymom - March 15 - 2:00 am

  driving the outlander is the best car ever....comfort is great , the ride is smooth.....i bought what i wanted and needed without buying what i didnt need..this car is great