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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  Came back for another one - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gski02 - December 24 - 4:13 pm

  This is my second Outlander. The first was an XLS and I loved it. This time I decided I wanted to go with the MIVEC 4 cyl for even better gas mileage. Very suprised by the responsiveness of the 4 with the CVT. Dont miss the 6 cyl! It has everything I wanted in it, handles well, very nice sound system. Plenty of features and a great warranty. Hoping to have the same kind of reliability I had with the first one. Zero issues! My parents even got one!

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  Great for dad and kids in the city - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By John - December 20 - 3:21 pm

  I needed a car with a third row for occasional use by young children (depending on how many kids Im commuting with). The car needed to be not huge -- something I can comfortably drive in traffic and park in tight spots. I was happy with my venerable stick-shift Ford Focus, but its now too small. (At first I really wanted to get the 2014 Mazda5 6-speed manual, but crash test scores made me reconsider.) After deciding that the Acura MDX was too expensive and the Dodge Journey a bit too bulky, I considered the Outlander along with the Nissan Rogue and the Kia Sorento. Heres why I picked Outlander: - Adding the 3rd row in the Rogue (family package) or 4-cyl Sorento (convenience package) adds roughly $1K to MSRP and rules out leather. Maybe its standard on the V6 Sorento. The cloth on the Sorento is very sturdy, the Rogue and the Outlander pretty basic. All the third rows are small (and fold away), but the Rogues was extra small with very little vertical leg room (so knees go up). The Outlanders third row is maybe slightly smaller than the Sorentos (but standard). - The warranty is better than Nissan (5 yrs > 3) and on par with Kia (slight edge to Mitsubishi on roadside assistance) - During the test drive, the Outlander delivered comparable acceleration with less CVT screaming than the Rogue. Power and handling seemed comparable to the base Sorento, but with somewhat less snap around center steering. The Sorento also offers a turbo 4-cyl but without third row seat (sigh). - Its just a good looking car. I really liked the "cosmic blue" and the "quartz brown." The Sorento has a nice "dark cherry" though. - Better standard sound system with HD radio. - If you like 4WD, it has selectable active 4WD vs the passive AWD I believe you get on the Rogue and Outlander. Im just leaving it on "eco" until it snows or something. Heres how Mitsubishi could make me like the Outlander even more: - One-push turn signal for lane changes (see the Sorento) - Make auto on/off headlights standard (currently only with safety package or GT trim, I believe) - Theres a lot of empty space under the hood. Maybe this space is used by the GT model, or by right-hand steering on Japanese versions? Maybe it could be shifted for greater front leg room. - Provide a non-CVT option (below GT trim) - It was hard to find an SEL trim with FWD. I wound up getting a 4WD I didnt really need just due to pricing and inventory. - At least with Kia and Nissan you get final assembly in USA. Mitsubishi just closed its only USA factory. Its definitely bigger than what I drove before, but the kids and I enjoy it. We were saving up for it, so I paid cash (theres a cash back incentive or zero APR, but not both -- also a nice military rebate) and still had a little left over for their college savings!

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  Sharp Looking and Comfortable - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By walter - December 16 - 2:13 pm

  My 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander handles like a car, it takes corners nicely. The body looks like a mix of a BMW and a Lexus. The anti-lock brakes are a plus. Its mileage should be a little better though since its only a 4-cyl. It still has good pep driving in the manual way. The cargo area should be a little deeper and the back seats should lay flat. The storage in the dash needs to change, it needs to slant it so everything doesnt fly out when you take off. Overall, this is a very nice value for the money. Its sharp looking and handles well.

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  Almost there - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Edick - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I have 8000 ml and only problem I had - wheel aligment. Since the first day (tried to make make myself think, that the road is always drifts to the right). However the dealership was able to fix this, but since its so common issue with Outlanders, Mitsubishi has something to think about. Other than this there is only excitment and pleasure. Strong AC (live in Florida), comfortable driver seat, lots of room for rear passengers. Looks agressive, stable cornering and holds the road well.

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  So so disappointed - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By 20vcq - December 12 - 12:13 pm

  Disappointment growing - lame awd - poor paint quality and road noise.

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  Surprise winner - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Sunnyvale - December 10 - 6:56 pm

  We were looking for a green car with if possible style and performance. Test drove the CRV, Pilot, Highlander and a hybrid Escape. None came close to the Outlander in style and performance. In CA the engine is rated PZEM and is the cleanest non-hybrid SUV out there, I think. The big surprise was that we can fit both our road bikes in the back upright! None of the others could do this. And the mini tailgate is very convenient. A solid, nice handling, luxurious little/big SUV.

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  2007 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Twinmom143 - December 8 - 3:56 am

  I havent had my Outlander for long, but what an upgrade to the Mommy-van! I was looking for a vehicle that is sporty when I dont have the kids, but one that would allow me to still pick up all three kids (and a friend if necessary). Kids love the tv/dvd, great sound system, hard drive, navigation, handsfree phone, sunroof. LOVE IT!

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  the suv that shrunk in the dryer - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mccormackslove - November 24 - 10:00 am

  the outlander is outstanding. It handles like a car but feels and has the capacity of an suv. The ride is extremely quite and smooth. I picked this over the new honda element because of the ride. It has great styling and the price is right!

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  Dont Overlook This One. - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Cuffy - November 19 - 3:23 am

  Overall this is a top notch design by Mitsubishi. As a complete package it outshines all other competitors in the segment and for a price far less than expected. Performance, power, style, handling, comfort, convenience, technology, fuel economy and fun all wrapped up in a sharp looking CUV with big room on a small budget. Nice fit/finish for this segment - tight seams and clean lines all around. Interior plastics are on par with other manufacturers, but could be slightly softer. The 6-speed is responsive and great for mileage, but can hunt for the right gear on long inclines. Reliability shouldnt be an issue, especially with the outstanding warranty.

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  A Bit Disapointed! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gardengroveguy - November 17 - 4:36 am

  This new Outlander is light years ahead of the outgoing one. It even rates above the new Rav4 and C-RV, in most respects. It is a better value, more stuff, and great quality. And here comes the "but!" This thing has the worse case of torque steer that I have experienced since I owned a 200 hp front wheel drive Fiat! Stomp on the gas and you better be holding onto that steering wheel, with both hands. And she wanders on the freeway, it feels like its up on tip-toes...wandering! And bring your Dramamine, because the rocking movements caused by diving when braking and accelerating will cause sea-sickness! Nice effort Mitsu...but you missed out on the important stuff...like being able to drive it smoothly!