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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  My 07 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By starflare21 - April 26 - 2:20 pm

  This vehicles "ups" are the paddle shifters which make for fun spirited runs, aggressive styling cues both in and out, and a fairly decent engine. The "downs" are I personally do not like the choice of interior fabric. It is said to be better for stains, but in fact it attracts more lint and holds in stains/marks worse and takes much more effort to clean and to keep it that way. The 3rd row seat is useless and horribly uncomfortable. Other than the these things, I love that you can fold the rear seats for better room (though I wish they kept the power folding rear seats thats on the Japanese OEM model). Overall Im satisfied with my purchase though its a shame my local dealer is really rude and continues to be.

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  Squeaky Outlander - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Duane - March 26 - 10:10 pm

  I must inform potential buyers that this vehicle has major squeaks and rattles. Mine is getting so bad that Im considering selling. I cant even enjoy the stereo since the whole interior is rattling and making all kinds of crazy back ground noises when I turn up the volume. Also have multiple rattles when going over the slightest cracks in road. Very disappointed with my 07 Outlander.

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  CVT sucks - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By germanwolf41 - March 18 - 11:30 am

  My CVT transmission seized at 137,500 miles. NO mention to change the fluid in the owners manual, just check fluid every 30k miles. Mitsubishi also fails to tell you they expect you to have the MIVEC motor valves to be adjusted every 30k miles (a $400-ish job) Due to limited Mitsubishi dealers Id advise against buying any Mitsubishi. Also, the CVT fluid is $19.50 per quart, 6qt roughly to change fluid once. The ONLY place you can get the Diaqueen J4 tranny fluid IS at Mitsubishi. NOT worth the hassle. Odd size for the 18" wheels, hard to find & expensive to replace tires. Only 4 choices

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  gas guzzler with a little 4 cyl - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mixe - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Its a great "MINI SUV" the only downfall that I have experienced is it gets HORRIBLE gas mileage.. I have a Ford Explored with a 4.0 6 cyl that does equal or better on gas..

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  Good SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Jennifer - March 12 - 7:10 am

  Ive had my Outlander for almost two years and I am very happy with it. Its very reliable and the performance is good. It is easy to get in and out of and the trunk compartment is easily accessible.

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  Nice SUV - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Pib - March 9 - 2:00 pm

  I hadnt planned on looking at the Outlander as Id never heard of it. Im glad that I found out about it! Compared it with CR-V, RAV4, Santa Fe, etc...which are all fine vehicles, the Outlander hit all the right points on what I was looking for. What I especially like is that it gives me almost all the things I would want in a larger SUV in a smaller and more fuel-efficient size.

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  Outlander Review - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Regggie - March 7 - 6:13 am

  I was very fortuanate to get a vehicle that has a wood like interior. I added a muffler tip and a chrome license plate frame. Which really adds to beauty. The vehicle sits pretty low to the ground which allows it to ride like a car, but it is still an SUV. I would reccomend this vehicle to any other. Its a great vehicle because I can fit my bike in it and still have room for freinds.

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  Everthing I was searching for! - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By nels79 - February 24 - 4:57 pm

  After searching high and low for a family car, I came across the Outlander. I was tipped off by being the chosen brand for the Paris/Dakar endurance race as the support vehicles being that they were champs 10y in a row. That said, I wanted something that you dont see passing by you 50 times a day on the road. Its a pretty unique SUV. This is my first SUV but Im familiar with the Jeeps and Murano. So far I am very please with it, I got the lower end 4C engine for better gas economy. Still had all the power I need on and off the road. The paddle shifts work great when you need to downshift and take off! Snow, rain, sand and mud. No Problem! Great features and fuel economy at good price tag!

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  Good value - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By roger - February 11 - 4:30 am

  I purchased the 2003 Outlander AWD new and have only had oil changes, tires and a couple recalls since. Its been a very reliable, versatile and economical vehicle.

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  Outlandish - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By T.CAGLE - January 25 - 1:26 am

  I have only owned my 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander for a month, but I have been thrilled with it. It has quite a bit of pep and handles really well. I have been fairly pleased with the gas mileage. I am not disappointed with buying the vehicle I would recommend the Outlander to anyone looking to buy a small SUV. And it just looks tough!