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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  As happy as could be - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By darsek - March 11 - 1:06 am

  I have owned this vehicle for a couple years now, I purchased through Hertz rental sales (great experience). I really, really love this car! It is great in snow, rain, shine, fog, city, on freeways or on backroads. I understand some are not happy with the horsepower, but what do you expect? This car is a 4-cyl. and costs under $20,000 used. Nothing has broken and it has not broken down, unlike my friend who has to take her VW Golf in once a month because every little thing breaks on her car. I would absolutely buy this again, although I dont have much need for AWD...it is nice to have but I think it is bad for the gas mileage. You may want a car with better gas mileage if you commute a long way.

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  Great Ride - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Megan - February 28 - 9:23 am

  I had a 2004 Outlander and was going to trade it in on a used X5 until I drove the 2007 Outlander. I was very impressed on the improvements from 04 to 07. The engine, the interior and exterior design were all much much better. Glad they added the 6 cyl. engine and navigation system. The sound system quality is great. It was amazing how much more I got with the 07 for about the same price as I did the 04. It was definitely a good deal and I could not be happier with the vehicle. Mitsubishi worked great with me as well. I didnt have to make my last 2 payments on my 04 and they "forgave" me for going over on my milage, and even a little body damage where someone hit me in a parking lot.

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  Love - Hate - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Flerurp - February 15 - 4:20 pm

  Noisy at times, front suspension geometry is lacking - watch those corners at speed!

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  Most bang for the buck - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By gopher - February 7 - 3:00 pm

  Most bang for the buck. Title says it all. I never thought Id find an SUV with great towing power for such a budget price. Handling is very sharp, as can be expected from Mitsubishi (12 time Dakar champion). And great warranty too.

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  Outstanding Outlander - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Russ - February 6 - 10:43 am

  One year of ownership. Love the car, not perfect, but love it nontheless. Very responsive, comfortable, and fun to drive. Lots of room and storage space. Torque steer can be pronounced, but have learned to deal with it. Have averaged just what the EPA says on fuel mileage. Would buy again.

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  So Far So Good, Could Be Better #MyOutlander - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By bigbossman05 - February 2 - 7:17 am

  I got the outlander earlier this year, I could say I love it, but I do have a few concerns, I sometimes smell burnt rubber after driving long ways, the CVT could have a better response, seems a bit on the sluggish side, but everything else I love about my outlander, the Bluetooth system, maintenance I practically do it myself, Im going to be taking it on my first road trip soOn, I wonder how its going to treat me on the highway.

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  Make Some Heads Turn... - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By TXHillCoutryFamily - January 30 - 5:50 am

  This is a fun ride. Its not to big, not to small, and really eye catching. Nope its not a RAV4, not a Lexus, guess again...it has a clean design inside and out, with great handling and zip. My wife and I fight to drive it. The Outlander has great overall features for the price.

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  Great car - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By dipesh roka - January 29 - 12:36 pm

  I have xls 07 outlander and am very satisfied with this truck. I used to have used car. Every time I had to go long drive I would worry about that car. Now I have this car and have no fear to long drives. I been many places using this outlander, its great car in my opinion this SUV is much more better than Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV.

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  Good value if you dont drive a lot - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By nicole - January 22 - 11:03 am

  Here is an update from 5/09. If you are easy on the gas pedal you will be rewarded with avg mileage of up to 30+mpg. Seat covers and rubber material on dash are poor - they are dust and hair magnets. Bad choice. I drive 100 miles, 5 days per week. I do not have lumbar/back problems, I do now. My back is aching, seats are extremely uncomfortable. Good value if you dont drive a lot. Otherwise, look at something else or get leather, maybe that helps.

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  It IS Good! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By PJOIPIE - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Bought it for my wife and she absolutely loves it. The 4 cyl is fine even though reading a lot about it being underpowered. Got the loaded model and the heated seats are great- however we wish the gear shift lever had lights for Park, Reverse ect, as of now they are lit up on dash. 1 recall allready, now its pulling to right and dealers says factory fix suggestions are not working so probable be another recall for that.