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:

• 

  Great Vehicle - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Archquark - November 13 - 8:40 pm

  I just retired in March 07, 2007 and the wife and I wanted a vehicle for trips to Nova Scotia from our home in Ontario. We looked into several other SUVs but we both liked the Outlander right away. It has a lot things that appeal to us. Comfortable seats, ability to switch to manual control (we both drive manuals, mine 2001 Jetta TDI and her a 2004 Saturn Ion Quad Coupe) 4 wheel disc ABS with EBD, active skid control, great sound system etc. Just wish they had made third seat an option and left more room for storage for all us boomers whose children are in their 20s and 30s.

• 

  Super Car clearly a Best Bet .. - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By eagleeyez - November 13 - 6:29 am

  Just bought 2007 Outlander for my son , compared to competitors (subaru forester, hyundai santa fe, jeep liberty and others ) this car is fantastic . The V6 is powerful and silky smooth, handling and breaks are tight , and the seats are very comfortable , just finished 900 mile trip. Car has the optional Rockford Fosgate stereo which is also very nice ..Oh and yes it gets great gas mileage and its loaded with safety features such as side air , front air , side curtain air stability control . In truth there is no comparing the underpowered poorly implemented 4 cylinder junk from buru , and hyundai , jeep has a weak v6 that guzzles gas . Would buy the Mitsu again ..

• 

  Great little car! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By krafty81 - November 5 - 10:43 am

  Bought this car used with 40K on it. Mileage a little higher than I wanted it but the car is in great condition. Dark blue, cream colored seats. Navi is very nice - I like it better than my Acura. Built in Sirius and music server - have already loaded 10 CDs. The car has great response and handles very well. Suspension is still because of that - you feel the bumps! Love the keyless entry feature. Very pleased with the car overall - just a lot of fun to drive.

• 

  I Love My Outlander - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Brooke Allan - November 5 - 2:00 am

  My vehicle is new to this area, and lots of looks and compliments. I seem to different than most import drivers, because I dont drive a Honda or Toyota. I like being different and in my opion my vehicle is as good as thiers are. I love my Outlander.

• 

  Luxurious, powerful but inexpensive SUV - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By frederikfly - October 26 - 3:36 pm

  This is a lot of car for little money. Bells and whistles usually found on much more expensive cars/add on packages. Powerful but still fuel efficient V6 engine, sturdy frame, AWD, great ground clearance, high end features that really make a difference in safety and comfort (e.g. backup camera, dual zone AC, keyless entry and start). It will handle pretty much anything with ease, passengers, heavy cargo, towing, and challenging weather conditions or even off road. Fun to drive thanks to solid road feel, spacious interior, peppy engine and virtually no blind spots. After test driving Escape, Outback, Highlander and Pilot the Outlander feels like combining the best aspects of all of them.

• 

  Do Not Overlook - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Eye Candy - October 6 - 10:00 am

  We needed to replace our 98 Pathfinder. My wife wont drive a wagon or mini van. So, the usual "cute ute" suspects were Rav4,CRV & Forester. Did not consider Outlander due to power issues. Tried to buy the Toyota, but couldnt get the right deal. On the way to a 2nd Toyota dealer, we decided to stop and check out the Mitsubishi. She loved the style, it drove great, and power, while more would be nice, isnt that bad. Bottom line is we got a lot more for our money with the Outlander. Do not overlook it in your search for the right "cute ute".

• 

  AMAZING!!! - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Anthony - September 24 - 10:46 am

  Im coming from driving a 2002 ford ranger, so Im new to the compact suv class. My father has a 2008 Highlander Hybrid and Im getting better fuel economy than him. The 2.4 engine is perfectly sized, I did put a K&N drop in air filter in, and I am very responsible with oil changes and injector cleaning cycles. My best tank since Ive owned the vehicle was 30 MPG!! And my worst was still at 22 so I cannot complain. Im a teenager so I do enjoy a sporty ride, and this car delivers.

• 

  Great for the price - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By snazzeemazzee - September 23 - 8:06 pm

  Ive enjoyed owning this SUV. Ive gotten compliments on the style and raves from friends who have borrowed it. It is great for driving on the beach, even in loose sand it handles quite well. I wish the gas mileage was better though.

• 

  Not a bad car! - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Annieb - September 19 - 5:03 am

  This is my first SUV and couldnt decide between the outlander and the Subaru Forester. Very, very close comparison. What put me over was the Outlander actually has better pick up (4 cyl) than the Subaru does. Seats are more comfortable on the Subaru (why do car makers not add lumbar support for all their cars?) The Outlander also has tighter steering which I prefer. Pound for pound, I feel the Outlander is a good car! So far, have not been disappointed. If you are considering a small SUV, dont rule out the Outlander.

• 

  Great Ride - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By jmercado787 - September 16 - 8:26 pm

  I bought the outlander thinking I was going to buy another car later. Yea right, Im keeping this bad boy. I made some modifications but from 160 hp Im up to 190 hp. Im very happy. Also I put 18" chrome rims on it. And a cold air intake. Think about it. You can wonders with this vehicle. I love it.