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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  Mitsi Outlander is a good choice! - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By suvluvr72 - January 23 - 10:00 am

  We intended on purchasing a Ford Escape. The salesman said we couldnt afford it, even w/2 trade-ins. We were disappointed. We liked & checked out the Honda CRV & Nissan Xterra. We took the Outlander for a 24hr test drive. It actually feet like a 6cyl! The exterior is similar to the Lexus RX300. I got used to the interior, not much to look at. We liked the Pontiac Vibes interior better, but it sounded like a wind-up toy. The Outlander has a nice amount of space. You dont see too many on the road. Purchased for $21,000 & 5,000 miles + warranties.

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  Happy with it - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gamedad - January 21 - 4:13 am

  Ive had this vehicle for slightly more than 2 yrs now. Had some minor issues when I first got it. The initial acceleration was a bit delayed but was fixed with a re-programming, about a 6-months wait. The side-view mirrors were rattling a bit and a cap beneath it was loose and fixed. The only thing not fixed is a delay when shifting from Reverse to Drive. Theres always a couple of secs delay and will cause a lurch if the shifting is too fast. Ive verified that this is not a problem on other vehicles. Other than these 3 minor stuff, it is a fun car to drive. Very responsive to acceleration after car is in motion.

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  Best Features for the Price - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Sean R - January 17 - 2:36 pm

  Ive had my Outlander XLS for almost a week now. I compared it to the Escape/Milan, Nitro, CX-7, and a few others. For the price you pay, this truck has some nice features. The FAST key is one of the coolest things. It allows you to lock/unlock, and start your truck without ever pulling the key fob out of your pocket. Great idea! The nav/stereo system is nice and easy to operate, and loud when you need it. Bluetooth hands free for the cell is a nice touch. Rear seats not only slide forward and back, but also recline. Plenty of room all around, and Im 63", 240. Engine power is just fine, and in-town mileage has been at 20 mpg so far. No telescoping steering wheel, though.

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  Just bought it - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By nicole - December 31 - 3:36 pm

  I drive 30,000 miles per year in all kinds of weather. I needed cargo space and 4wd. This was the most reasonably priced, least ugly vehicle in this category. I never buy new, but finding something with low mileage wouldve cost me close to what this cost me new. I dont expect luxury in this price range - and I sure didnt get it, but its decent looking, inside and out. Im not thrilled about the velour cloth seats, I dont think theyll hold up. Dash and side interior panels are a weird textured rubbery material that seem to mark up fast. Maybe some protectant will fix that.

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  First Car and an SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Lily - December 8 - 12:33 pm

  I love the way the Mitsubishi Outlander handles on unpaved roads in good and bad weather, even in more than a foot of snow. It is roomy from front to back but could use a little more headroom, even when the seat is totally down. Also, its gas mileage could be better. It does zero to sixty in about 10 seconds which is sluggish in some situations but livable. It has a smooth ride at any speed. It is the first vehicle I purchased on my own and I wanted an SUV. I bought it used from a car rental company where it was well maintained. My maintence costs have been low. It is large enough for what I need and small enough that it is easy to park without taking up extra space. Sometimes it gets hidden behind other bigger SUVs in mall parking lots!

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  New Purchase - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Sibs - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Narrowed choices to the Outlander or the Honda CRV. Drove both. Did not like the CRV at all. Good pep, but why anyone would put the hand brake on the dash is beyond me. Didnt like the dash layout at all. The headrest on the backseat of the CRV almost completely blocked your view when backing. Wife and I both have bad backs. The seats in the Outlander are great. We like the dash layout. The Outlander had almost everything we wanted as standard equipment. Salesman was great. Look forward to enjoying the Outlander.

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  Better than expected - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Eric - November 29 - 4:43 am

  The Outlander has car-like handling with no bad manners. This vehicle is easy to drive, park and has good visability. I am very impressed with the quiet ride on the highway. There is no wind noise and the seats are comfortable. Its ride is stiff but very very solid. Its controls are simple. The 2.4L engine offers adequate power and is smooth. The transmission is also well matched to the engine and shifts smoothly, sport mode is great in town and with the cruise on it prevents downshifts. The stock 4 speaker stereo is average. The rear seats recline and that helps when installing a car seat. All Wheel Drive has no computer management like a Subaru but still helps in the snow. My truck has not had one problem in 25,000 miles.

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  Some fun eh? - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Rustaman - October 21 - 2:00 am

  First the nits. No Power! Needs a turbo bad! Youll need a calendar to clock 0 to 60 times. The Infinity stereo is horrible. FM reception reaches only about 40 miles. The speakers are just bad. The DC outlet is only powered when the car is on - my cell phone is always dead. Brake and gas pedals kind of close sometimes I hit both with my size 9 feet. The Sportronic trans is just a gimmick. Gas mileage is a disappointing 17mpg in mixed driving. BUT (really big but) this puppy is fun to drive. It handles like a sports car and loves curves. Goes fine in ice and snow too. Even with all the minor annoyances I love driving this car. Now, if it only had a turbo!

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  Very Reliable SUV - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By joe.arismendy@yahoo.com - October 14 - 5:54 am

  In terms of reliability this vehicle is tops, got it used with about 73k miles has been very reliable with no major problems did replace the front brake rotors and pads at about 90k miles but other thant just the basic service oil changes filters etc. the only problem has been the front door windshield gaskets let in a lot of road noise at speed have seen this reported by other people here and the turnn signal need a chime because they will remain on if you dont notice, again not so much to worry about with this vehicle and mileage is good for a V6. Update Sold it but my dad has same year XLS model his has 83k miles still going strong!

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  Review of 2005 Outlander - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Julie - September 4 - 8:56 am

  I am currently a little unhappy with the vehicle and the service. I am having an issue with an odor when the air conditioning is on. The dealer said it is condensation that is becoming moldy. They did not offer much help except to change the cabin filter, for a fee. It seems like this is a warranty issue. I havent had the vehicle for a year, why would the air conditioning be leaking and getting moldy? The odor is bad, especially on rainy days. I wish I knew if others had this problem. I am a little frustrated, its gross! Thats my big complaint.