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 WEEKEND TRAIL GETTER - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Floyd Beutler - February 18 - 3:50 am

  I love this car I have owned it a year now and no major issues just had to replaced one wheel bearing due to previous owner neglect. Will get out and go anywhere my buddys Jeep will.

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  Great SUV for great price - 2000 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By Jasun - February 17 - 10:00 am

  I got my Montero Sport XLS brand new in 2000. The car looks great, I always get compliments. The power when i head up to the mountains is more than adaquate even with the air conditioning on full blast. Another great aspect is the fuel mileage. I am averaging about 20 to 21 miles per gallon!!! The ride is surprisingly quiet for an SUV. Great SUV, highly recommended. If you are in the market for a used car get the 2000 Montero Sport overt a 2001 or 2002. They have begun transforming the car to more of a Xterra type instead of a nicer 4 runner type. They offer less options in the newer ones. In my opinion the 2000 is the best Montero of all.

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  Nice Car - 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Good/Car - February 17 - 10:00 am

  Im 16 and this is my first car. I like it a lot and it definently is easy to pick up girls riding around in this thing. I would recomend it to anyone.

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  Smart Purchase - 2007 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Keith in Texas - February 15 - 4:53 pm

  The vehicle handles like a car. Needed a vehicle big enough to ride a family with two big kids. The kidÂ’s first comment was wow they love the leg room. Everyone sits good. Not clunky like other SUVÂ’s I owned.

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  Best car - 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By Joeren fontanilla - February 15 - 10:00 am

  The Best Car. When I drive it Its the bome and Ithink its better than a 4runner

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  Everyone Should Own One - 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By Demetrice - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought my SUV in November 2002, but it is a 2003 LS and it is fun to drive and the ride is outstanding. I enjoy the height of the vehicle over other vehicles that I pass on the freeway. I have not had any probelms out of my vehicle. I have a teenage child and she loves to drive it and her friends love to ride in it.

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  GOOD PERFORMANCE - 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By LAURA - February 15 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS MY SECOND MITSUBISHI - AND THE LAST ONE DUE TO THE SALESMEN AT POTAMKIN SOUTH, MIAMI FL

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  Very fine SUV - 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By Tom1 Thom - February 15 - 10:00 am

  My wife hasnt found anything she didnt like about the car yet. I liked the body style better than the other SUVs except Toyota but wasnt going to give the 6000 dollars more for a Toyota with less warranty.

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  handles well - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By mighty mouse - February 15 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle handles nicely and controls uneven roads very well. People have been surpised by its comfort and roomy feeling for a car this size.

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  DAC Endeavor - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Dr DAC WV - February 15 - 10:00 am

  For the money, this appeared to be the best buy. The Endeavor has style, enough power, comfort, nice ride. It is spacious. The special 3 yr/45000 maintenance package was another positive. Have always had good service at the dealer.