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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  BUY THIS CAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By The Docnzok - March 18 - 10:00 am

  If you have not looked into this vehicle, you are missing something BIG. I was in the market for a new vehicle and was there the day these were put on the lot, my wife and I looked all over for a used car with low mileage for under 25,000. We saw the sticker on the outlanders and were absolutley amazed at the 16000 price tag.

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  Pleasantly Surprised! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By jnwafor - March 12 - 6:43 am

  Originally I was looking to purchase a Mazda CX-7; however, after doing a test drive and seeing its low fuel economy I was not impressed. Then I set my eyes on the Outlander. This car is dependable, GREAT fuel economy, I can get up to 30 mpg highway when traveling to work. (Cant get anywhere close to that with a Mazda). It has decent pick up with its standard V6 220 horsepower engine, I can definitely pass with no problem and keep up with fast lane traffic.

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  One of the best SUVs you can buy! - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By internetguy - March 6 - 6:56 am

  My girlfriend recently traded in her 2009 Lancer GT for a 2011 Outlander 4cyl AWD. Her Lancer was such a great car and Mitsubishi service is always fantastic. We recently moved into an area where we need a 4x4 so after looking at offerings from Hyundai, Nissan, Jeep, etc. we easily decided on the Outlander! We chose the 4cyl because we did the not need the power or fuel consumption of the V6. So far we are averaging reviewed specs of 23mpg city and 28mpg highway which is great for a vehicle this size! Please be aware that the 4cyl is for fuel savings and V6 is for power and towing. Choose wisely as some people seem disappointed by the lack of 4cyl power (168hp). Know what you are buying!

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  Recommended - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By HG - March 2 - 6:36 am

  I wanted a small SUV for under $25k that excelled on looks, warranty, standard features, and Edmunds Editors Rating. Of the 10 vehicles I compared, the only one that landed in the top 3 on all 4 of my lists was the Outlander SE. Then I test drove the Outlander and the Honda CR-V EX, which is often regarded as the leader in this segment. The CR-V is more refined (quieter engine and ride, nicer interior materials) and has a better 5-year resale value. But I was swayed by Outlanders equipment, warranty, and appearance. As for resale value, by that time Ill be 70 and have bigger things to worry about. Bottom line: This is a nice vehicle, especially if you dont need a plush interior.

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  The Best Bang for my Buck - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Alex L - March 1 - 2:00 am

  I had never even heard of the Outlander. I didnt want another Honda CR-V or Ford Escape like everyone on my block. The wife saw it first. The more I checked it out the more I liked it too. It was overall exactly what we needed at the time. The deciding factors were its good gas mileage, interior space, reasonable price, color and the desire to own something different. It could use more power and two more seats though. Im still more than satisfied with this buy. I love when people ask "Hey what is that, its cool lookin." I personally love the silver color. Well thats my rewiew

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  Impressive cuv - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By edwin - February 28 - 4:33 am

  We needed an SUV in the house, to join a Toyota sienna and a BMW 330i. The bimmer impresses with handling and refinement, the sienna with space and comfort. Looked at the Forester and outback before biting the bullet on the outlander. I must say, very happy with the purchase. This cuv continues to impress with just how well it does things, how smooth and refined it is, and all the bells and whistles mitsu was able to cram in this package. Its an absolute techno Wonder - with the handling that would put a lot of other SUVs to shame. Value for dollar - it ranks really high. The performance and the looks - bonuses! My wife and I love the outlander.

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  Sharp SUV! - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By LD810 - February 24 - 1:10 pm

  I just leased an Outlander XLS five days ago, and so far Im very impressed! I got it with the Luxury Package and the Sun-and-Sound Package. The ride is excellent and so are its cornering and handling in general. The V6 engine is smooth and provides plenty of power. The exterior and interior have great fit and finish, and interior materials look nice and of good quality. It has plenty of storage space and its full of great features. It is very roomy and comfortable. It has great bucket seats! The 3rd-row seats are tiny, but I have no need for them, so its not an issue. Overall, theres not much competition out there for the quality and price. I think its the leader in its class.

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  What a Find! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Dina Marie - February 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my first SUV. I love the control i have of the seat. Im not used to the elevated position for parellel parking, thats when i raise the seat up so i can see all corners. Im a city girl, so parellel parking is my only way to park. What i thought would be difficult is really a cinch. i love the privacy windows. i love the nice smooth ride and the confidence of the pick up the Outlander has to its horsepower. The aero-dynamics of the front end are marvelous compared to the other competitors. This is quite exciting having come from driving a Dodge Neon with faulty engineering.

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  I am a noob MItsubishi owner. - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Rusty Shackleford - February 18 - 2:48 pm

  So I just bought the 2016 Outlander ES 4WD, a few days ago. At the dealership, I test drove many vehicles including; the Jeep Compass, & the Hyundai Santa Fe. Both Vehicles had more features than my Outlander but once I drove that thing, I loved it. To me, it had the best ride feel, great price, and it feels like a larger SUV than what it really is. Mine is all black with black accented rims, so it looks sharp. Im disappointed in all the expert reviews saying this car is average because it does not come with all the latest in cabin features, but I dont need lane assistance, parking assistance, or even the heated seats. This is a fantastic SUV, extremely underrated, and great price. The one thing I do agree on with the expert reviews is the third row seating. That thing might as well not exist, because only my 4 year old can fit back there.

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  Love My New SUV - 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Morgan Dickey - February 11 - 10:59 pm

  Traded in my Mitsubishi Mirage (2015) for the Outlander ES Feb 19. Fell in love with it immediately. The step up in brakes and steering alone was awesome. The Mirage brakes were horrible, the steering fair. Sure there are better brakes and steering out there, but for a big SUV its pretty nice. Have driven a Ford Fusion (rental), it does feel similar, at least to me. The blue tooth is great in it. First Cruise control for me. Really like it. The seats are comfortable. Could maybe use an extra adjustment on the seat, but it does feel comfortable. The biggest complaint is the big headrests on the third row seats, do block the rear view a little, but they are removable, so not a huge deal.The radio stereo is the basic brand, but its a huge step up from the Mirages stereo. The Mirage you had to play your mp3 music at nearly full volume. The Outlander at twenty four the music is pretty loud. So far only really drove it back and forth from work, but so far Im loving every moment. This is no where near the top vehicle on the road, but it is a value SUV. The Mirage wasnt a bad vehicle either. The biggest downside probably would be the gas mileage. From the Mirage I got around 37 MPG regularly, never less than that from fill up to fill up. Looking now at a possible 26 MPG area. I would recommend this SUV to people looking for a nice vehicle for family driving or light hauling. The towing capacity is pretty light on this vehicle. Its listed at only fifteen hundred pounds. The Continuously Variable Transmission is fine on the ES model. You can punch it and go with little effort.