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 Experience - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By miss as - May 11 - 5:26 pm

  I love my Outlander. Its a 5 speed and its easy to handle. I will stay in the Mitsubishi family as long as Im buying cars or trucks.

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  GOOD BUY FOR YOUR MONEY - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By amy meade - May 6 - 10:00 am

  easy to drive ,peepy for a 4cyl,good stero sysyem,comfortable seats,lots of leg room and this suv will be easy to maintain,you can almost work on it yourself.

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  A Reliable alternative - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Adam Barcant - April 24 - 2:00 am

  This SUV has quality. You can feel it in the way it drives and feels. I would reccomend it to anyone who is looking for a good-looking small SUV similar to the Honda CRV but much better than the RAV-4. You must shop around first. Here are some choices to look at: Jeep Liberty Suzuki Grand Vitara Mitsubishi Outlander Honda CRV Ford Escape Toyota RAV4 Mazda Tribute Mitsubishis are really good cars. So are Hondas. I would stick with either of them, but styling is a little different.

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  Great value for money - ignore the expert reviews - 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Minnesota Driver - April 22 - 9:36 am

  I own this car and bought it after very extensive research and months of test driving cars. I drove both the 2.4 and 3.0 version, settled on the GT with touring package. I have previously owned Saabs, Audis and still own a Honda. There is just no comparison of value for money - I fit three kids in the 2nd row, and yes the third row is smaller than my Honda Pilot, but manageable for the few days per year I really need it. Safety features are outstanding and work in real life driving. Ok, it doesnt drive at the same level as some of the new BMW/Acura/Mercedes models I tested - but realistically I am getting 90% of what I would utilize from those cars for 50% of the price. For my daily commute and moving kids around to and from school and weekend road trips this is an amazing car. I recommend people to actually research AND test drive this car - many people will find it surpasses most of the competition in value, performance, comfort!

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  Highly Satisfied - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mzbabydoll - April 20 - 11:06 pm

  Owned the 2014 Outlander SE for 9 months. My main focus when purchasing was gas mileage and seating capacity. Not only did the it meet those requirements, but I got so much more. Initially, I was bothered because I rarely see an Outlander on the road, thinking it must be a bad car, nobody wants it; Have I made a mistake??? No regrets! I now say that it is a well-kept secret, because this car is a real gem!!! I love all the unexpected bells/whistles and sleek body style. I like cars that dont age quickly, like my old Jeep Liberty (had it 10 years and it still looks as good as anything else on the road). The body style has longevity and will look stylish for years to come. Super gas mileage!

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  Love my Black-GT - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By bdoura - April 16 - 4:53 pm

  I owned a 2000 Montero Sport prior to purchasing the 2010 Outlander GT, in February, 2010. Mitsubishi makes excellent product at competitive pricing. My Black GT looks great, performs very well, and not bad on MPG (About 20-21 average). My only suggestions to Mitsubishi are regarding the tires and doors. The Good-Year Eagle LS2 radials are not the best choice for rain or snow. I bought a new set of wheels and tires for winder driving (NOKIAN - Hakkapeliitta R SUV) they are the best tires at a great price. The doors on my GT feel light and must be slammed to close. They dealer said there was nothing that could be adjusted. Overall, I love my Black-GT

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  Happy Purchase - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By sarah - April 12 - 1:43 pm

  When I was looking through possible vehicles to purchase upon a move to snowy Minnesota, I met with a dealership that found the Outlander would match my needs. While I wasnt a big fan of the outer appearance, it was nice to look at a car that wasnt exactly the same as all the other small SUVs. I ended up buying the car after checking out some of its competitors (i.e. CRV, VUE, RAV4) and have found my Outlander to be a terrific buy. I think it is very comfortable, with a simple, clean interior. I would recommend this car to someone looking for a smaller AWD vehicle.

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  Just got one - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Outlanded - April 4 - 2:00 am

  I took the plunge on the Outlander. Similar cars (outback, rav4 etc) in its class dont even come close on the amenities/ style. This car has exceeded my expectations in every way. I tested it out in the snow, freezing rain and I couldnt be happier with it. Oh and BTW if youre concerned about the small (140hp) engine, dont worry. I was initially concerned about this too from all the posts I read, but these are from folks who are expecting a 200hp monster truck or a sports car. IMHO, this car can handle its own... But anyway, it is so much fun to drive, why rush?!

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By CayC - March 26 - 8:23 am

  The only thing wed change about the Mitsubishi Outback is the back seats should completely flatten. If they made this a hybrid version of it Id by it in a minute.

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  Stay Away - Major Paint Defect. - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By nathanas85 - March 24 - 3:33 am

  I researched for a mid-size SUV and upon my reviews test drove the Outlander, Nissan xterra, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Honda Pilot. I found after test driving the Outlander test drove more like a smooth sports car. I fell in love with the diamond black exterior paint and the spacey interior. Overall a great vehicle to drive, per performance wise. After one winter the paint chips near the rear panel on both sides of the vehicle. I have read other Outlander owners with the same problem, a paint defect, after I purchased the vehicle. I contacted Mitsubishi about the problem and just like other customers with the same problem, Mitsubuishi doesnt honor their warranty on the paint defect.