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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  Great Improvements from the previous year model! - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Priji Eapen - April 2 - 10:46 pm

  I owned a 7 seater Outlander 2014 before. When I did a test drive of the 2016 model, I was quite surprised to see the improvements that Mistubishi made in the 2016 model. Ive noticed a considerable reduction in outside noise and vibration. They’ve made significant improvements to the performance of the vehicle as well. 2014 Outlander lacked the responsiveness you’d expect when you press the gas pedal. Mitsubishi addressed this issue and new model is much more responsive compared to the previous year models. Ride comfort is also better. Although not significant, improvements to the interior and the steering wheel are also adding to the overall improved appearance of the interior. 2016 Outlander is fun to drive. Although the the third row seats are not ideal for adults, it serves its purpose when we have to occasionally transport 7 people in a single car. I’d say there is room for more improvements. However, this is definitely a step in the right direction for Mitsubishi. Hope they keep improving the Outlander to make it even better. I feel that the SE model offers a great value for the price you pay for the vehicle.

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  best value suv for 2003! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By marcus mauceri - April 1 - 10:00 am

  i did my research and it paid off well i reccomend the leather and get sport seat covers. it drives like a car not a truck. i bet the ride is as good as a mercedes at one fourth the price. complements are given to me everywhere i go. the interrior is like a benz!get the leather.

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  Fun to drive - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By bobchiu - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I saw a couple of these media Outlanders driving up from Kuwait to Baghdad, Iraq with big "TV" in masking tape. I really wished riding the Outlanders instead of my G.I. Humvee. After coming back home from deployment, I took a 550 mile drive from Temecula to Sunnyvale CA and surprisingly was not fatigued. With 3 people, the ride is very comfortable and quiet, power is adequate enough to pass other vehicles up the I- 5 "Grapevine". Mitsubishi did great interior design on this, it does not give you the cheap feel.

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  funtoown - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By nancydollhouse - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Great fun to drive. Handles like a car and looks great. Easy to get into and out of. My kids are all jealous that I got one for myself.

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  2008 xls outlander - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By s. mitchell - March 30 - 1:23 am

  I Love it!!!! Got it a couple of weeks ago and I have nothing but good things to say about it..Runs great, looks great, so much fun to drive. Looked at several types of crossover suvs and this was by far the best one. I will say that the XLS Model is the way to go. All the gadgets are very cool.

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  Great value & features - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Casey - March 27 - 11:34 am

  Im in my 13th year in the car business and I dont work for a Mitsubishi dealer. This is the best SUV in the class. The engine and transmission are time tested and solid. Yes its still timing belt driven but this engine is going to last!! The ride quality is smooth and quite. The upgraded Rockford Fosgate sound system is fantastic, spend some time playing with all the different sound options and find the one that sounds best with your music. Plus you get one of the best warrantys out there.

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  What a Deal! A quality Vehicle - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By fratomdev - March 27 - 1:46 am

  I researched every mid level SUV out there on every car site I could find. What got me to look at the Outlander was that I couldnt find any complaints from people that bought a used one. The same was not true for the RAV4, CRV, Ford Escape or the Forester. I originally was going to buy a 2007, but decided to test a used 2006 LS AWD. Both my wife and I felt the 2006 was quieter and road better. I havent driven in the snow, but I am sure it will be great up here in Syracuse where we get 160" a year, thus why I wanted an AWD. The interior is big compared to my Camry. The quality is impressive.

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  It is a fun truck to drive - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Chris Holder - March 26 - 2:00 am

  The biggest drawback is I drive everyday on The Baltimore Beltway I need more power to get up to speed. Once up to speed and hopefully not getting run over, this truck is quick and very responsive. The braking is very good and the handling in wet or slick driving conditions is great. The consumer reports say that the cargo area is the smallest in the class. I can put four fat guys and all their golf bags in the truck. So much for little to no space

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  Great SUV - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Mealster - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my Outlander a few months ago and I love it. The ride is smooth. The front & back seat have plenty of room. The only downside is that there is not much cargo room. A little more would have been nice. But overall, no complaints about this vehicle. I just wish folks would stop calling it a "glorified station wagon". =)

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  Love it! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By DevonPass - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I own a 2003 XLS AWD. I have all the extras: leather, seat heaters, sun roof, Infinity stereo, auto dimming rear veiw mirror. I am getting 22 MPG which I think is pretty good for an SUV. The car has plenty of room for my active family, I have 2 dogs, a husband and a 3 year old. My husband is just over 6 feet tall and has plenty of head/leg room. Others have complained about the power, I am satisfied. I commmute 50 miles in and out of Washington DC and have no problems navigating the beltway. I have recieved many compliments.