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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  Fun car to drive - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Christy1972 - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Since purchasing our Outlander, we have gone to Charleston, SC 2 times. It was a very enjoyable drive. It was quiet wuth the windows closed so our kids could sleep. I also use my Outlander for my house cleaning buisness. It handles well. The steering is responsive. The a/c works great. It tilts a little in tight turns. That is the ONLY complaint from me. (although you should never speed-ha ha) The dash has a very easy to read layout. And my kids LOVE my new car. Thanks Mitsubishi!! This is by far my favorite car I have owned.

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  Awesome and fun ride!!!!! - 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Anna - August 11 - 6:23 am

  This is a wonderful car. I have the GT model and it is wonderful in the snow with the ABS, Front wheel drive and traction control. It is so much fun to drive, especially when teenagers are trying to race you from a complete stop. I have not had one thing go wrong with the car.

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  I Purchased Used - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jason Bittner - August 9 - 9:30 pm

  I purchased this car used. It was a one owner lease and well taken care of. I never anticipated buying a Galant. I was in the market for a Camry or Accord. The value of this vehicle is great. I bought a 4 year old car with a warranty, Honda or Toyota couldnt come close. I have now owned this car for one week and absolutely love driving it.

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  Enjoy Driving - 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Jeff S. Ross - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The acceleration will give you a rush. The sportronic 4 speed automatic with automatic overdrive is super, plenty of get up and go and when used as a manual, it is even more fun. Front seating is comfortable and roomy. Styling is super, this car will turn heads.

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  Great ride - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By leeee - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I really like my new SUV. The exterior of the vehicle is very sharp looking and I have received many compliments on it. The interior is not too fancy, but nice nonetheless. I like the waterproof compartment in the trunk area. The trunk are could be just a little larger. The gas milage could also be better as well as the pick up. Otherwise, I am enjoying my new vehicle.

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  Lancers Kick Ass!! - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Sweet Lancer Chick - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I took my Lancer to California and back, it was reliable and got excellent gas mileage, averaging about 38 mpg/350 mile to a tank, and a tank of gas only cost about $20. It cost me $90 to get there. Thats 15 hours NONSTOP driving! If you just happen to be looking for a good looking, but economical car, I think youll be pleased with the Misubishi Lancer. If you have any questions about the above info, please feel free to email me.. SweetLancerChick@wmconnect.com Thanks! Crystal W.

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  Sweet Ride - 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Zabian - August 6 - 8:46 am

  I have only had the vehicle for a week, but I LOVE IT. I owned a 2000 GT and the new style and engine is by far a vast improvement.

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  Exceptional Vehicle - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Tim S. - August 5 - 11:10 pm

  I am very impressed with everything about this vehicle. I test drove the vehicle the day it came out (Friday Nov 3rd, 2006), and it blew my mind. I test drove the Honda CR-V, the Jeep Compass, Toyota RAV4, and the Outlander blew them out of the water. Its turning radius, acceleration, and handling are absolutely amazing. The one thing I was a little skeptical about the 27/20 gas mileage until I drove it to work and averaged 23 MPG! Are you kidding me? A 220HP V6 SUV averaging 23 MPG thats not a hybrid? All I can say is WOW.

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  HOT - 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Louis - August 1 - 9:03 am

  This car is so hot! It has lots of power and the car looks HOT!! Plenty of room, love the sound system. 6 air bags + ABS.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Pacebomber - July 31 - 3:16 am

  Bought a while back, needed to upgrade to something with a 3rd seat, my Isuzu Trooper just couldnt fit everyone. After looking at may domestic and foreign SUVs the Montero won hands down. Edmunds needs to lighten up on the lack of power, it does everything I need it to do. If you have a really heavy whatever to tow then you might want a V8, but Im guessing all the V8 owners are rethinking things with the gas prices the way they are.