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:

• 

  Almost Perfect - 2007 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Robert - October 5 - 1:36 pm

  I tried a bunch of SUVs and did my homework before buying my Endeavor SE two months ago. I made the right choice. I just couldnt find a better deal for the money. Its got great looks, ride, terrific stereo, room for everything, torque and performance not to mention a great warranty. I got just about every option available, I plan to keep it a long time. Navigation system could be better by mentioning street names like the Gremlin, and not talking so much. I got a 2005 DVD navigation disc instead of a 2007 or 2008 version? Going to have to call. Folding the back seats I had enough room for several 6 foot long picnic tables inside and I could close the hatch. My girlfriend loves it.

• 

  Why I will Never Buy Another Car - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By mitsulover - October 5 - 11:40 am

  I have had nothing but excellent experiences with this vehicle! I live in snow country NY and my Endevor doesnt even know that it is there! I go all over my rugged terrain yard and I love how much room is available inside. This is a great feature with kids!

• 

  Great small SUV! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By equ - October 2 - 10:00 am

  Enjoy my newly bought Outlander! The best I can find within the compact SUV class, the internal space is bigger compare to RAV4 or CR-V, try it before you buy others.

• 

  My first foreign car - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By Trbrvll - October 2 - 10:00 am

  I was skeptical about buying a non american car, and an SUV to boot. I have been very impressed by safety and comfort features for a wonderful price that cannot be matched by the American competition.

• 

  awsome - 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Cody Brand - October 2 - 10:00 am

  This car is really reliable and is as cool inside as it is out. This is the best car I have ever had. I am sure if you buy this car youll love it.

• 

  Every Thing You Need - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Patrick - September 30 - 5:46 am

  As you can see the Galant has a very attractive design, especially for a 4 door. It has exellent acceleration and rides smooth at high speeds. The Galant has more leg room then some trucks and SUVs that I have been in. Id rather watch t.v. in my Galant then my lazy boy. The only complaint I have is its turning radius does not meet my standards.

• 

  Excellent auto - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Debster - September 29 - 9:06 am

  My Galant has 72K on it, and it has been an awesome car with no major issues except a glitch with the radio that I fixed myself. Still handles well and looks great. Would highly recommend. I especially love the way it handles, and the engine is peppy enough to be a V6 even though it is only a 4-cyl. In fact, I bought this from a dealer and the sales guy was bummed because it was the car he was driving around... keep up the great cars! Looking to possibly upgrade to SUV but will certainly look at Mitsubishi - if it drives as great as this car, I will be happy!

• 

  Two Mitsubishi family. - 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By joew6969 - September 26 - 5:15 pm

  My wife and I just purchased our second 2011 Lancer GTS on August 5, 2011. The 1st was hers and has all the goodies in the Touring and Chrome packages. Mine just has ALL the standard features of the GTS. Mine is Rallye Red with black cloth interior. It has everything I want in a car without add-ons I do not like. Very comfortable riding car, lots of interior room, I am 62" and have more than enough room in ALL of the seats.

• 

  Satisfied Customer - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By shotgunjimi - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought mine during the year end clearance, got a super deal. With minor hail damage. My sticker was $20900, got it for $17,300. I love the elegant look of the interior. (Camel color) The dark grey interior is ugly. Nice smooth ride, good pick up for a 4 cyl, reliable. Nothing but regular maintenance.

• 

  best for the money - 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By bryan v. - September 26 - 10:00 am

  i drove toyota and all the rest in its class. Nothing handles or drives better or even close to this car. Toyotas celica was sloppy, honda no fun to drive,susbaru corniners like a camry got flown all over the place. was rear ended by a full size ford 250 and he was towed away, i had 2 lil holes from his licence plate bolts.this car handles and drives like a dream. we love it.