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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  Perfect for Our Young Family! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By crosstrack21 - June 1 - 6:20 am

  Weve been looking for something our two year old would enjoy as much as my wife and I would. And we found it. My wife loves the sunroof, and I love the sound system (subwoofer is my favorite part!). Our daughter sits high enough to finally see out of the window and I have peace of mind with the Anti-skid control and enough airbags for any situation. The gas mileage is great for an SUV, but obviously not as good as our Nissan Altima. The XLS model is worth the extra money! We love this SUV! It has the best warranty available and the customer service is extremely pleasant.

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  Keeps Locking UP - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Donna - May 27 - 6:20 pm

  Ive had the OUTLANDER long enough to put 6500 miles on it. I love the getup and go it has. Love the handling and the comfort it offers. The center armrest isnt very workable and the drivers side cup holder next to the window broke the first time my knee hit it. Ive had a big problem with the steering wheel locking up. This is Saturday night and Im stuck at the house because the steering wheels locked and I cannot get it to unlock.

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  outlander ls - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By ciro - May 25 - 2:00 am

  i traded a toyota avalon and dont miss it one bit

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  Terrific Little SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By LadyFaire - May 11 - 8:03 am

  If you are looking for a smaller, more fuel efficient SUV, you could not find a better one than the Outlander, whatever the year. I have the 2003, in 2 wheel drive, and both my husband and I liked it so much that he bought a new Outlander (AWD) last year when his Subaru (his 7th) quit. I never thought he would abandon his Subarus, but he actually defected to my Outlanders side. The Outlander handles like a dream, has a really nice sound system (once you fiddle with the balance, etc), the intelligent wipers are great, the seats are comfortable, and the gas mileage is respectable once you break in the engine (after about 30,000 miles).

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  Decent SUV but Im never again buying Mistubishi - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Anthony - May 9 - 6:49 am

  I liked this truck from day one. We lucked out getting it in such good condition. The truck was getting older and I didnt notice the rust damage underneath. However, the engine was good, the interior was clean and unmarred; she drove nicely. That being said, there was a lot that needed to be changed after the first year, there being 69,000 miles in. The tires, belts, filters, and battery all needed replacing. Not the worst except the battery was annoying. However the engine required a tune up; there was an issue with the timing belt which could have caused an engine seize and car being totaled if we hadnt caught it. Then the damned intake manifold went. The truck is great the problem is Mitsubishi is the worst company to deal with in regards to parts and service. You have to use their parts and those parts are NOT CHEAP. We lived with a non-working key fob (no lock/unlock) which would only have unlocked the front driver side door. I have to say good product, but bad product support by the company. This will be our last mistubishi, as a result. Traded her in after almost 2 years...and didnt get near anything to what we paid for her.

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  You Get What You Pay For. - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By qball5 - May 8 - 10:00 am

  Well built Very good fit and finish Great seats Visibility is good Like the placement of cupholders both front and rear Good cargo room Can always find a good seating position

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  Good Stuff - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mitsudriver - May 3 - 7:56 am

  I just bought the Outlander ES and I really like to drive it. It has great pickup and it a real smooth ride on the highway. There is a lot of storage throughout the vehicle, with two glove compartments and dashboard storage.

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  Love it. - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By lady b - April 9 - 1:33 pm

  I love my new vehicle I cannnot get enough compliments. MPG was not as great as I hoped, usually around 24 on highway. It is much better than the 15 or so I got with my jeep cherokee. The one draw back, although I like the 30 gb music storage, I still wish I had an outlet for my zune/mp3 player and the system doesnt seem to have cd name and title for some of my most recent cd purchases. Otherwise I cannot complain. I am happy with this purchase. I am not sorry I passed on the toyota and honda so far anyway. Ive had it for about 6 months now.

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  Reliable so far. - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By lucymo - April 7 - 5:19 am

  LS model, FWD, automatic. I purchased this car when it was 2 years old and had 26K miles on it. Now its 7 years old and has 82K miles. I have had only one problem - with the steering column - that was taken care of through 5y/60k miles warranty. I do regular maintenance according to the manual. While the LS model has a very spartan interior, it handles well. I replaced its very standard radio/CD player with an all-in-one player. Its perfect for a small family of 2-3 people or a couple with dogs. Not enough pwr with 4 adults. Mine has gas mileage of 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg hwy. I am very happy with it and will drive it to its end, hopefully many years and many miles away.

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  A Great Decision - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By tampabayzeta - April 6 - 2:00 am

  My Rio Red Outlander is the cutest little thing. It does feel more like a car than an SUV, but thats alright with me. Had a Ford Escape before, and always felt like I was going to tip over in curves. Very comfortable to drive. Design is awesome!! A great decision overall for the money!