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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  Nice - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Mite - October 8 - 11:46 pm

  Great car, best that I owned so far. Just came back from my 4th of July trip-2 adults, 1 kid, trunk full of camping equipment + food + beer + water + cargo carrier on the roof - 29 mpg...wow

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  Top notch on everything - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Calvin - September 30 - 5:53 am

  Ok, imagine, I purchase this Fantastic 2009 SUV not knowing that the 2010 version would be much improved...Lol! Doesnt matter because this 2009 is just awesome, top notch on everything, smoothness, superb handling, Power that will put to shame a Acura MDX (that costs 40% more) on the street. Style, AWD system that LOCKs and is head and shoulders above the competition (the 2010 version is even more efficient). Mitsubishi is out to prove THEY are the best engineered vehicle in the world...period! Toyota and Hondas watch out. The King is waking up!

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  Saved our Lives - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gail - September 20 - 4:06 pm

  Our Outlander saved me, my daughters and her friends lives! Tonight we were in a terrible car accident where I went into a ditch and my truck flipped over three times! We all had our seatbelts on, the back windows shattered OUT the car, the sides got bangged up, but the doors never caved in, the roof and hood were badly smashed. When people passed the vehicle, they were horrified...and could not believe we were alive! I am going to buy another...as I feel it truly saved us....I give it a five star safety rating...thanks Mitsubishi!

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  Just bought one and glad I did!! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Sophie2 - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I think it looks so classy for the price. I am pleased as punch!

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  Great Sporty SUV - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Nikki - September 2 - 6:13 pm

  Purchased a XLS V6 Outlander, had it now for 500 miles. Cant wait for the break in period to finish. Technology wise this car is packed with it. Rain Sensing Wipers, Keyless entry/starting, subscription- free traffic service, the list goes on. my family wanted something different instead of a typical Rav4 or Cr-v so we decided on this great Outlander. It has great in your face styling and has the power to back up its look.

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  Wow! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Alvey - August 23 - 9:03 am

  The Outlander an amazing vehicle all around! It has lots of room, the back seats recline and move forward, and back and best of all is it has a left hand cup holder for the driver right by steering wheel! The doors are hard to close and the u-joints are not very good, but other than that, this is an awesome vehicle. It is so cool. The third row seating is perfect for a young family!

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  Old reliable - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Ellie - August 23 - 3:13 am

  I bought this car because the year-end price was too good to refuse (despite not being crazy about the ext styling), but am amazed at the reliability. Almost 80k miles on it and only oil changes/checks & recall replacements. Now needs a new battery. Roomy interior, comfortable on a 2k mile trip. Gas mileage better than expected (average 23-24MPG overall).

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  This Mitsu is excellent - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mazzo - August 17 - 10:30 am

  Had the car for almost one year, never a problem, I am fully satisfied with the car. Drives wonderfully. I love the engine sound, excellent handling, AWD on snowy roads, and using the paddle shifters when it is time to zip away. The design of the interior is nice, offers lots of storage, and seats are comfortable. The Rockford-Fosgate stereo is unbelievable.

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  Great commuter, not bad comfort - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Gattor - July 30 - 3:16 am

  This car is great for commuting and could be more comfortable... went on many long trips with it and its good... I would consider buying another newer model in future.

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  outlander - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By cristine - July 24 - 2:00 am

  I love my Outlander, it handles really well, it;s very comfortable and great to run around and do errands in. The height is just right for getting in and out. I find all the controls easy to use, and the sound system is great. My only complaint is the gas mileage. Its not that great but maybe thats becasue everyone in my house wants to use it all the time.