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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  A Good Value - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Bruce - May 10 - 8:36 am

  This is my first Mitsu (prior Camry & Accord owner). Not as refined as a Camry/Accord, but with rebate and deal, a far better value for the money. However, Ill be bringing it back for third service to hunt down an intermittent engine noise. Although disappointing on that one issue, it has been otherwise a good car (so far). A comfortable fit for a tall person. I purchase a car and drive it into its grave. Camrys and Accords have gone the distance for me (10-15 reliable years). Im hoping the Gallant will go the same distance.

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  shoulda had a V8 - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By SS - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Looks - tonka toy look sort of grows on you over time interior - a step above most of the other mid-price suvs. reclining back seats great for kids. 3rd row completely disappears, but only good for very occasiuonal kid use quality - too many issues - broken seals in awd system, breaks that wont release, power- terrible, the reason you ulimately regret the purchase advice - by an MDX or step up to a Land Cruiser

• 

  shoulda had a V8 - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By ss - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Looks - tonka toy look sort of grows on you over time interior - a step above most of the other mid-price suvs. reclining back seats great for kids. 3rd row completely disappears, but only good for very occasiuonal kid use quality - too many issues - broken seals in awd system, breaks that wont release, power- terrible, the reason you ulimately regret the purchase advice - by an MDX or step up to a Land Cruiser

• 

  The car is good - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Anthony - May 6 - 4:00 pm

  I have been continously suprised by the performance of my Outlander. We recently came over the mountains in the snow and the car performed remarkabley. I am able go faster than is safe and able to get up to speed and keep up with other higher performing cars that is acceptable. My wife and I purchased this car for her benefit, she wanted a car she was comfortable with in terms of size. I initially wanted to get the endeavor, but I think the outlander was a better purchase in terms of cost and efficiency.

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  Great cheap reliable car but BORING! - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Glenn - May 5 - 7:23 pm

  We needed a cheap reliable 4 door car with a new addition to the family and having owned 2 other Galants and an Eclipse I knew the reliability factor was there. This is unfortunately one of the most boring cars around!

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  good family car - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By jsk - May 5 - 10:00 am

  Overall, very good. Dependable, handles well. A little cramped on long trips, but good fuel economy.

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  Stylen in a Mitsu - 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By MitsuEclipse Driver - May 5 - 10:00 am

  It has an attention grabbing style, excellent performance in the kind of city driving that I have to do. Great gas mileage, especially on the road when travelling. (24-28 mpg) I am impressed with the service you get from the Mitsubishi dealership, not pretentious but very attentive. As if this is not enough, it is affordably priced both for the car and the servicing! You can pay a lot more and not get as much of a car.

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  Excellent choice. - 2006 Mitsubishi Montero
  By JD - May 4 - 9:23 pm

  I have very specific yet opposing auto needs; weekdays I occasionally drive executive clients around LA/Hollywood; weekends I off-road, rock climb, surf, snowboard, camp, etc. After copious amounts of research, I purchased a new Carbon Grey Metallic Montero Limited. What an exceptional vehicle at a great price.

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  Ill be back! - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Grhythm - May 4 - 6:26 pm

  After all of the fright in 2001 and 2002 over reported SUV roll-overs, I found that Montero received higher than average ratings from the NHTSA tests, which are available on the agency web site. I was conviced, the commercial hype was not what I should be basing an auto purchase on. I have never regretted my decision. The Montero has exceeded my expectations in dependability, durability, comfort, maintenance costs, and safety systems. Although Ive never crashed it, the brakes, lights, suspension and seat belts have given me no unusual issues. I have been completely satisfied with the truck. The engine, air conditioning, power roof and entertainment system still perform like new.

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  Excellent Choice! - 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Rafael - May 4 - 11:56 am

  I love Mitsubishi cars. My previous car was a 98 Mirage (original owner). I had that car for 9 years and 135k miles and never left me stranded. Awesome little car. I traded in for a new Lancer SE and I couldnt be happier. The Lancer SE has everything i could ask for. The car is so comfortable. Engine is quiet and refined. Fuel economy is good for the class. Fit and finish is excellent. Stereo sounds great. Sun roof and power everything seals the deal for me! I highly recommend the Lancer to anybody looking for a compact car with lots of room and excellent reliability.