Overview & Reviews

Mitsubishi has built its brand in the United States with a selection of cars and SUVs that tend to offer above-average performance and style. The parent company has its roots in producing commercial vehicles for its home market of Japan.

A Japanese word meaning "three diamonds," Mitsubishi was founded in by Yataro Iwasaki, a descendant of samurais, in the early 1870s. The company's initial focus was on shipping, but it quickly diversified into areas such as mining and ship repair. In 1917, Mitsubishi unveiled the Model A, Japan's first series production passenger car.

It wasn't until 1960, with the launch of the compact Mitsubishi 500, that the company began producing passenger vehicles on a large scale. That decade also saw the launch of other Mitsubishi light passenger vehicles like the 360 Van and 360 Pickup. The company also distinguished itself on the racetrack during this decade, taking top honors in Japan's Grand Prix.

Mitsubishi's automobile production arm was officially spun off into a company of its own with the establishment of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in 1970. The company's Colt made its way to American shores in 1971, the same year in which Chrysler purchased a 15 percent stake in the new company. However, the Colt wasn't sold under the Mitsubishi name, but rather under the Dodge brand, reflecting Chrysler's interest in the company. By the end of the decade, Mitsubishi was producing more than 1 million cars per year.

In 1982, Mitsubishi began selling cars in the U.S. under its own name. Through the '80s it offered a variety of cars for the states, including the subcompact Mirage, turbocharged Starion sports car and midsize Galant sedan. Mitsubishi hit its stride in the '90s, thanks to the popularity of the Eclipse sport coupe and 3000GT sports car in the U.S. and the turbocharged Lancer Evolution in other parts of the world.

Chrysler made the most of its partnership, as it used Mitsubishi platforms under many of its models. The Eclipse, in particular, was a key vehicle produced by the Diamond Star Motors partnership. In 1998, Chrysler merged with Daimler-Benz to become DaimlerChrysler. Mitsubishi's partnership continued with DaimlerChrysler for a few years but was financially terminated by 2003.

The new millennium has been a struggle for Mitsubishi. Its vehicles have grown stale with consumers and sales have wavered. At one point the company was forced to admit that it had systematically covered up vehicle defects in Japan. On the upside, though, the company's compact, high-performance sedan, the Lancer Evolution, has been a continuing success in the United States. Going forward, Mitsubishi plans to revitalize its brand by developing environmentally friendly vehicles (such as its all-electric "i" hatchback) that are still fun to drive.

User Reviews:

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  Great Vehicle - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Tiffany G. - June 22 - 5:33 pm

  I was looking to upgrade from a sedan but didnt want the bad fuel economy of an SUV. This car fit the bill. This has handled great in the show and I live on country back roads so this was important. I was hoping for a little better gas mileage than it gets in the winter but as the weather warms up, it seems to be improving and I have gotten up to 27 mpg on the highway in 2wd. My 6 year old son loves it and thinks its the best car ever!

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  Content with my Montero Sport LS - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By hlb - June 20 - 8:00 am

  Bought my Montero Sport LS a year ago and I have been very please with it. I have about 10500 miles on the V6 auto, 4dr. 2WD, LS. I only changed the oil every 3000 miles. NO problem what so ever has accurred. I was attracted to the vehicle based on the style, room inside and the test drive. I normally keep my vehicle for about 10 to 14 years. I have a 1990 Chev. Silveroda, V6 with 151200 miles on it and it still runs great.

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  2 years of Loving it - 2007 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By w10ski - June 20 - 4:00 am

  This is my wifes car and she loves it as much as me. Strong engine, great ride, handles like a car, and she loves the no touch AWD. I know she and my boys are safe in any situation. Did I mention it is fun to drive, especially with the auto stick shift!

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  My Second Montero - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Curt - June 17 - 1:03 am

  I searchd for months before I decided on my 2002 Mitsubishi Montero. My 1995 Montie was totaled by a drunk. I was able to get the Limited model which has just enough features for me. I tow with it and use it in the New England snow. I also like that there are not a million of these on the road, at least not in the US.

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  Second chance seems good - 2003 Mitsubishi Diamante
  By VM - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I was satisfied with my 2001 Diamante LS, but VRX versions tighter suspension and handling make this ride more enjoyable. Interior hasnt changed much, but platinum trim is sharp (except steering wheel is a little cheesy). Getting one without the rear spoiler reduces cheese-factor, also.

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  Impressive Car - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By lhvang - May 31 - 7:46 am

  I own the GTS 4-door sedan CVT. First off, I have owned my car for a little over 2 months now. This car is great overall. I have the nav package w/sun and sound, and those things are just amazing. Dont get the car without it. The bluetooth for mobile phones isnt perfect, but its a great addition to the car. People can hear me clearly, just at a low volume. Also, the car handles like a dream. I havent driven it in snow, but its great in the rain. Ive driven other cars in rain and always feel like Im going to lose control, but not with this car. Also, the mpg is better than the advertised value. I am averaging 28 mpg city driving. This car is one thats worth checking out!

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  Nice Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By ejp - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this vehicle for about a year and am very satisfied with it. It is a relatively inexpensive car that rides well. I previously owned a 1997 Galant and was satisfied with it as well.

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  2002 Eclipse - 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Bink21_2000 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I like this car. I also own a 2001 Honda Prelude and the Eclipse, while not as fast or sleek looking, is darn good. The V6 can almost keep up. The interior is nice and the body style is kind of muscly, which I like. My only complaints would be that the doors are very large and heavy and are always falling on me getting in and out. And there is absolutely no head room in the backseat. But then it is a hatchback.

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  my mitsubishi ...its time to sell =0( - 1996 Mitsubishi Galant
  By patty - May 22 - 4:40 pm

  I bought this car with 105,000 miles on it. Everyone told me not too, it has been a wonderful car and is now pushing 180,000 miles! Great gas milage, quick for a 4-cylinder! Fun little car to drive with overdrive at the push of a button and power everything and leather seats and even a spolier on the back! I have to sell it now. If you buy one, I hope you have as much luck with yours as I have had.

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  Not driven a lot yet , But enjoying it! - 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By 1stXmitsuowner - May 21 - 8:03 pm

  Nice sporty ride, tight handling and good MPG so far! Sharp looking and peppy for a 4 cyl. Wish I upgraded to moon roof and R/F sound system. But sound not bad! Bought because of value and warranty. Looked at Kia, Mazda and Ford prior to buying the Outlander!