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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  No Brainer - 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By D. Sun - September 15 - 5:00 am

  I was in the process of purchasing a Chevy Cobalt when I saw the new Eclipse at the auto show. Mitsubishi saved me from a costly mistake. While driving the vehicle, cant believe what you get for the price. The amenities, including the amazing 650 watt sound system, are incredible. Its ride is smooth and comfortable, allowing for enjoyable long trips. The design is amazing, it definitely catches the attention of others when sitting at a light.

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  Love It - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mccoygreer@aol.com - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I purchase my Outlander last month and I really like it. The only thing is I hear sort of a rattle type sound when I accelerate. It truly sounds like a rattle underneath near the catylitic converter or something. Ive taken it back and they tell me thats normal in the 4cyl. Has anyone else experience the same sound?

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  Would buy it again - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By mikec - September 14 - 8:13 pm

  With almost 40000 miles on the SUV we have had zero repairs or work done on the vehicle. For a 4 cylinder engine, performace is great. Quick acceleration even with the AC on, 5 people and a load of cargo.

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  sleek, aggressive looking, option packed 2015 2.4L - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Robert F Dumlao - September 14 - 1:43 pm

  I have owned about a dozen cars over the years, including two of the original SUVs, a 1975 International Scout II and a 1980 Ford Bronco. I dont plan to go off road, but the 4WD is handy in Illinois winters, it handles well in wet/icy conditions. The exterior dimensions are well balanced. Not too long, width adequate and height is just right. The exterior styling is stunning from any angle, and the overall look of the vehicle is well proportioned. I didnt need a larger vehicle, I dont do any major hauling, but with roof rails, it can easily handle larger items such as dining tables or bedroom sets. The Sport performs as good as any mid level sedan or CUV, the 2.4L has very good acceleration and torque, so highway merging is not a problem. Ride comfort is no different either, but as smooth and quiet as can be expected at this price. Interior materials remain basic, dashboard layout is functional, although a bit bland looking. Where the Sport rocks is the Rockford Fosgate navigation system and 710 watt system with a 10" built in subwoofer, which sounds awesome at lower volumes, and still keeps rocking at highway speeds without blowing my ears out. This trim level has all the expected options, power everything, heated leather, moon roof with mood lighting, etc. Before I purchased, I read many of the reviews, Many were less than complimentary. I can say as an owner for 18 mos that those reviews are unfounded. The Sport not expected to compete with upper end vehicles. Check out this Mitsubishi and see for yourself.

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  great car - 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By vkb1982 - September 9 - 10:00 am

  this car is great, from the sound system to the exterior looks of it its amazing. The comfort of the seats and riding in the car is awesome.

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  Love This Car - 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Ron Eberhart - September 4 - 12:20 pm

  This is my first Mitsubishi...and I love the way it rides and handles. The 160 HP 4-cylinder engine is very peppy. I bought it instead of the "6" for better fuel economy. Im getting about 22 - 23 MPG in mostly city driving. It is very roomy inside. The back seat has a lot of leg room. It has air bags everywhere. Plus it has a 5 star front and side impact rating from the government. I like that. Try it, youll like it.

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  2003 20th Annversary Special - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By PHOnos - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Had a 2001 LTD. Loved it. 55,000 miles and decided to trade for a new one with 0.0% financing. Hope this one is as reliable and as good off road as the 2001. The 2001 had LSD in the rear. Hope the new traction system works as well. I changed out the springs and shocks to ARB OMEs and the tires to BFG AT KOs in 265-75 x 16 Improved the handling but ride more like a truck.

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  Great! - 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By stevend44 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  i love this car@

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  The new 2005 Galant LS - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Ted Moore - September 1 - 1:50 pm

  Traded in a nice 2001 Galant for this new 2005. Totally different car. Finest car Ive ever owned. You MUST drive one!

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  An Excellent Vehicle - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Keith D. - August 31 - 7:43 pm

  I was looking for fun yet reliable transportation. The Outlander fits the bill. With the luxury, navigation and sun and sounds packages, the vehicle is simply awesome. Even during the break-in period, the gas mileage has been impressive. It has a very solid feel when driving and exceptionally comfortable. It fits my familys needs perfectly. My first car in the 80s was a Mitsubishi and I am thrilled I found my way back. Give it a test drive, you will not be disappointed.