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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  My 2003 - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Douglas M. - September 10 - 2:00 am

  Nice vehicle, well built

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  Fantastic Vehicle - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Julie - September 2 - 8:46 pm

  I bought mine used with 32000 miles on it. I have had NO problems with it at all. Have to replace brakes and oil thats it. I couldnt be happier with my Outlander. I have a few friends that have one too. From a 2003 to a 2007. Cant beat these vehicles. I drive 100 miles a day.

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  Best Small/med. size SUV out there!! - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Serge - September 1 - 3:40 am

  Purchased this Canadian version model LS AWD V-6 and realize it is the Best SUV that I have driven! It is so smooth and comfortable on the road, you think you are driving a sport sedan. You dont even need to floor it when passing 3-4 slower vehicles on the highway, it surges with such authority and speed...the engine revving sound will please your hears! Consumption: Did 9.6 litres for 100 kilom. on the highway at around 110-115 kilom. Love this truck!!

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  I agree; do not listen to paid "expert" reviews. - 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By norfla71 - September 1 - 1:35 am

  Just bought mine last night; traded out of a 2017 Jetta S and what a difference! Frankly, I wanted the Outlander first but got a better deal on the VW; however, a good deal is not that good if you cant live with the car daily. We needed something bigger for road trips and box store runs that would fit a family of 4 and 2 dogs. After 3 days (2 night test drive included) we are over the moon, as they say. Had I listened to any number of negative reviews, rather than reading actual, real world owner reviews, we would have paid several thousand more for much less vehicle. The pros are awesome MPG (averaging over 35 combined, but I drive to keep the tree green), lengthy standard features list (especially in SEL trim, which is why it we chose it over a cheaper SE), comfort (front seats, ride, NVH; my 7 mile old Jetta already had a nasty rattle in the drivers door that no dealer could fix), great ingress and egress, very good infotainment system (base system rocks; IMO not worth upgrading to the optional system), easily garage -able and very good value for the dollar. The cons are mostly nit-picking; that smaller size limits interior space. However, we bought it knowing that 3rd row was not going to be used, and needed more space than the Sport model had (Sport also cannot tow, and we need that capability). It lacks all the current active safety features, which are included only in an expensive package. At least BSM and RCW should be standard. The camera lines do not turn unless, again, you upgrade to that expensive package, which included 360 surround. You have to take your eyes off the road to scroll through SXM folders as the wheel control will only scroll through whats on the current folder. Finally, there needs to be more info available in the dash. Even basic vehicles these days come with a minimal TFT screen, and it would be nice to see whats playing on the radio or what speed my CC is set at. Overall, as another review said, this is an undiscovered gem in a crowded market. Im hopeful the Nissan really infuses some cash into this brand, and cant wait to see what the next gen will look like (though it will, most likely, also compete in a higher price bracket, taking another affordable option off the market).

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  Great Small AWD SUV... - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Ryan - August 26 - 5:36 pm

  I traded in my Mitsubishi Endeavor for the Outlander. I love the Outlanders aggressive styling. The handling of this car is amazing as well. Id recommend this SUV to anyone.

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  Very satisfied with my Outlander - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Wheeldog - August 16 - 10:13 pm

  I bought my Outlander in December 2008 after researching a number of vehicles. I kept coming back to the Outlander for its combination of performance and utility, its value, and its unique features (hard drive nav, paddle shifters, tailgate). I am very happy with my choice. The V6/6spd auto combo is very smooth and plenty powerful for a vehicle of this class. Unlike other reviewers Im completely happy with noise levels, highway or back roads. Exhaust noise is nearly imperceptible.

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  Love it! - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Julie - August 12 - 11:46 am

  I thought my Jetta was fun to drive. I never imagined an SUV could handle better, be more responsive, and generally be more fun to drive. Definitely didnt have to downgrade to get a Mom-Mobile.

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  I Love My Outlander! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Silly Me - August 8 - 3:30 am

  This is the best vehicle Ive ever owned. It rides as smooth as any luxury car, but is more fun to drive! It may not be as powerful as a sports car, but it has enough power to safely merge on any freeway. The interior is comfortable and beautiful. I hope to drive it for many years.

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  Love it!! Love it!! Love it!! - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Socialdoc - August 4 - 1:06 am

  I will never make fun of a heated leather seat again, I cant live without them! I keep warm and they are easy to clean up after the dog has been in the car with her muddy paws! Sporty, clean look, fun to drive, easy to maintain! And not bad at all on gas & I drive all over town! And I got a heck of a deal( New ) and will buy this model again! I strongly suggest it to you! You cant go wrong! And it kinda looks like the Lexus SUV, hehehe!

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  2014 Mitsubishi Outlander GT - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By tr2v3l3r - July 27 - 9:30 am

  I test drove several Mitsubishi cars and liked the way the car felt. After driving the car for a week I was able to find a number of short comings. The automatic transmission is unresponsive, traction control never engages in slippery conditions, loud road noise, and the car itself feels unrefined. V6 engine has 224 hp at 6250 rpm, but power to weight ratio is 0.045 hp/lb. The car is a bit too heavy at 5005 pounds. My previous car was lighter at 4001 pounds and you can feel the difference. This is my first Mitsubishi car, but I have been looking at them for 15 years. A number of my friends owned Mitsubishi cars and were happy with them.