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 Car - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Chip Stewart - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This car has done everything Ive asked it to do and more. I truly believe I could not have bought a better car for what I paid ($20,000). Its fast, has incredible handling, and the brakes are unbelievably strong. I conciously brake slowly, because cars behind me rarely can brake as quickly. With 9,900 miles on it, the only problems Ive had were a bad key fob and an air bag that needed replacement. Neither affected the reliability of the car, and were both replaced under warranty. This is my third Mitsubishi product, and I highly recommend their products.

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  Mitsu rocks - 2004 Mitsubishi Montero
  By IanC - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Montero - the first I traded after 120000 miles in 2 years - lots of driving and nevr missed a beat. The 3.8 has improved the power enough that when you need it it is there. I commute 45 miles each way daily and nevr get tired of the Mitsu - this vehicle is a hidden gem. The 3rd row seat we only use occasionaly and it is tight but for the kids they are fine. The turning radius is great - a lot easier to park than the domestic bohemouths like the Tahoe. If you looking for a compact well built, occasional 7 passenger that will fit easily anywhere - the mitsu has it !! Great Vehicle - compleely underrated by most. Will continue to buy.

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  Rating the 2004 Galant, 4cyl.ES Sedan - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By GW Altenburg - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I felt an immediate adrenaline rush during my first acceleration. The engine actually growled that deep throaty roar of a racing machine, my head snapped back, and my body was pressed into the seat. All this with just a 4 cylinder.2.4 liter engine. The steering was a bit stiff, but very responsive to the slightest adjustment. The ride was not cushy and was even jarring at times on roads that were not perfectly smooth. This might be objectionable to those looking only for creature comforts, but for the person looking for the exhilerating driving experience, this is one mean machine.

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  Thanks to Wallingford Mitsubishi - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By tim kyle - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Great wonderful car. that is very reliable and has great gas mileage. Great for anyone looking for space, comfort and good gas mileage for a 4 cyclider.

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  Check out the GTS--its worth your time - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Hovey - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I have only one beef with my new GTS-- the gas mileage isnt great. Id still recommend this car to anyone looking for a sporty 4-door with some get-up-n- go!

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  Excellent Car - 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante
  By Debbie Q - May 24 - 1:53 pm

  I bought my Mitsubishi Diamante LS a year ago and have 22,000 miles on it. I have not had any trouble with it. I love the car, its really ashame that Mitsubishi is no longer making them. I would have loved to have gotten another in a few years.

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  Outlander - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Storms - May 23 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car for people who want the SUV look, but the ride & handling of a sedan. Its very sporty and fun to drive, this is our fourth Mitsubishi and we love it.

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  Nice SUV - 2000 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By nmt - May 23 - 10:00 am

  Very strong overall body built. Nice exterior looks. You would never be afraid to go anywhere with this truck on or off road.You can rely on its engine not to leave you cold on the road. Good suspension. The downside is the large turning radius. Cant maneuver quickly in a tight parking spot in one approach. The ac needs more time to cool off the interior in hot summer, unlike the Toyotas. Had some frustrating electrical glitches; like the auto lights on (dome light) when I open the pass door side. Alarm failed to arm during very cold winter.

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  Sharp and fun - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Mose - May 23 - 10:00 am

  We looked at all other manufactures vehicles at this price range and were much more impressed with the Galant than the others. The Toyota was a close 2nd but they would not come off the price at all. We purchased the Diamond package and the sunroof package. The Diamond package gives a completly new look making the interior absolutely beautiful. A great sound system and stylish wheels. Head room and leg room is great for a sedan and fits our 2 child seats with no problem.

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  mitsu lancer - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By diddle - May 23 - 10:00 am

  nice engineering at an affordable price. great warranty.