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:

• 

  NO PEP, But nice Comfort! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By johnbobit - July 1 - 10:00 am

  It only comes with a 4 cylinder with no plans to have a V6 as an option any time in the near future. Much nicer overall than a CRV which we test drove.

• 

  Awesome Sport Ute!!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By tminchew - June 27 - 10:00 am

  I purchased an Outlander XLS with the Sun and Sound Package for only $18,864 at Price Mitsubishi in Greenville, Texas. The dealer was great! I love the vehicle. The interior design is awesome and everything about the car feels as good as it looks. I also received the new warranty as well as free scheduled maintenance. Im still waiting to see what kind of gas mileage Ill get, but so far it doesnt guzzle gas like a larger SUV. This is a sharp looking and comfortable vehicle and can easily get five adults to the movies and back without causing any arguing!

• 

  I love my MO! - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By cp2010 - June 21 - 8:13 am

  I decided to get rid of my truck for something more practical but I didnt want to look like a soccer mom. So I steered clear of the more popular compact suvs and fell in love w/ the Outlander. Its a blast to drive! The sound system is great (6 disc changer was a nice surprise), but the cool new redesigned grill is really what drew me to it. It looks pretty tough going down the road! Ive had it for just over 3 months now and Im more in love every time I jump in the drivers seat. The visibility is really good and its very easy to park. Overall, I am completely satisfied w/ my decision to get an Outlander and I plan to drive it for another 10 years.

• 

  Look for another make - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Ap384 - June 18 - 6:33 pm

  The Mitsubishi Outlander drives badly, its visibility is limited, and its fuel economy for 4 cyl engine is minimal. Its interior design is cheap. In general - this truck is poorly built and has an underpowered engine, with fuel consumption equal to the V6 engine. I you want a small SUV, look for another make.

• 

  Great car at a great price . - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By MITSUBISHI Outlander - June 8 - 5:24 am

  Had this car for about a month now . May be its too early to comment on many aspects of ownership,reliability and performance . Its under rated car with consumer reports . But feel that way . Its just like any other small SUV. Initial impression is-its a honest car . Drives well and the GT has a satisfying performance . Good price too . Prefer to avoid the 2.4 l as drove the 2.4 L and V6 3 L back to back and the difference was apparent . The features , driving experience and price were deciding factors in the purchase . 3 Rd row seats are a joke . Am quite happy and its 100% made in Japan .

• 

  Great car thus far - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By btotherich06 - June 5 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car just recently with just under 76,000 miles, and am very impressed so far. Only major defect I had was the moonroof motor was falling apart, which happened five days after I bought it. Thankfully my auto broker paid for the repair. Even though I have only had this car for almost a month, I can picture myself driving this car until well over 200k miles!

• 

  Reliable Reliable Reliable !!! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Michael Graham - May 31 - 8:33 am

  I drove this car for 9 years without a hitch. The only money I spent was on Tires 1x Spark plugs 1x Brakes 1x Shocks 1X OIl Changes Filters etc. 117000 miles and never needed a repair. The only reason I did not buy a new one is they no longer have a V6 only a 2.0 liter four cylinder or a 2.4 liter four cylinder. I loved the reliability of this car. I never owned a car for 9 years before usually buy new one every three years.

• 

  Near luxury at a Fantastic Price - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Mitsu convert - May 28 - 11:16 am

  I did lots of research before buying my Outlander. In a nutshell, I found that for about $10,000-$15,000 more you could get a luxury SUV with SLIGHTLY better performance, SLIGHTLY better handling, a SLIGHTLY better interior (if you like the fake wood look), and similar technology and safety features. I figured Id keep the 50% premium and get a great small SUV with beautiful styling (like a Lexus RX 300 with a boxier rear), great tech features (NAV, Bluetooth, phenomenal stereo w/Music Server!), a clean, simple dash and interior, all the handling/power/safety features I required, and the space and features I wanted (3rd row, lots of storage). The 07 Outlander is a fantastic vehicle, I highly recommend it.

• 

  Giddyup! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By avenger - May 26 - 2:00 am

  My wife & I were just looking at crossover vehicles. We stumbled upon the outlander & my wife fell in love with it! I wasnt sold until we drove it. Its actually enjoyable to drive!! We arent looking for a sports car so the 2.4 gives just enough power. But we also dont deal with city traffic & highway merging issues. Overall well be driving it for a few more years. Hopefully well enjoy it as long!

• 

  BEST JAPANESE SUV - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gtrallyracer - May 24 - 2:27 am

  I purchased a GT without sunroof and navigation on August 2011. I purchased this great SUV for its reliability reputation, awesome S-AWC system, great ergonomics and powerful V6 engine. I have owned American, Japanese, and German brands, but this time Mitsubishi is offering excellent warranty and standard features to its vehicles. I have driven already 4000 miles and fuel economy is great for this size of SUV averaging 23mpg. Driving is very predictable and sporty. The xenon headlights are incredible! I feel I have the headlights of a rally car!