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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  new 3G eclipse GTS - 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Joe Rocker - January 14 - 2:00 am

  This car has speed and style at the same time, it has better overall acceleration thand its class average. It has a new variable induction air intake managment system which is really cool, its fast and can beat the groups quarter mile timings, has a relatively soft suspension. It is really fun to drive nice torque rev in engine, but with a low pulse. But I have to appreciate that its fast and has good acceleration.

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  the best galant ever - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By kennyrogers - January 14 - 2:00 am

  the 04 galant is the fastest, most powerful, and best looking one that mitsubishi has made.

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  A Great Vehicle - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By cookie jar - January 14 - 2:00 am

  The Montero Sport has been a great SUV.The gas mileage is reasonably and the handling is great. It has great curb appeal.

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  Excellent Value! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Snoopy64 - January 14 - 2:00 am

  Bought my new 04 Endeavor for myself as a birthday present. I looked at a Durango, but it came only in an 8 cyl. and I didnt want a gas guzzler, but still pretty nice. Highly considered an 04 4Runner, but Toyota has a habit of adding on options a consumer my not want, therefore raising the sticker anywhere from $1000-$3000 and out of my desired price range and budget. THEN, one day I drove the Endeavor LS FWD, and it drove like a car. Comparable ride to the 4Runner SR5, but about $4500.00 less with a better warranty, and tires for life. My wife fell in love with it on the first drive, and enjoyed the roomy feeling.

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  Severely Underrated and a Tremendous Value - 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By J Harvey - January 13 - 11:37 am

  After much research I narrowed my choices to a Subaru Forester XT Touring and a Mitsubishi Outlander GT. They both seem to have the best AWD systems in their class. My first choice was the Subaru, especially coming from a 2013 XV Crosstrek, but I couldnt justify the additional expense over the Mitsubishi. The biggest advantages the Forester had over the Outlander were steering feel/handling and resale value. However, I prefer the Outlanders traditional 6 speed automatic over the Foresters CVT. I also find the front seats to be more comfortable. The Outlanders build and material quality is top notch. I havent found one flaw. Engine performance is strong and the fuel economy has been surprisingly good. The ride is smooth and quiet. You really cant beat the value here for what is truly a quality vehicle with excellent safety ratings and best in class warranty coverage.

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  kj - 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante
  By Petern6 - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Very good, loveable car!!!

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  A great alternative to Accord / Camry! - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By TurboMX5 - January 12 - 10:00 am

  The V-6 is every bit as powerful as the competetion (it seems quicker from 0-50mph than Accord 4-door V-6), smooth shifting transmission. The ABS 4-wheel disc brakes are very capable, and the traction control worked well in the winter (on ice). Fuel economy is in the 23/24 in city and 26 highway. On the highway with 4 passengers and full luggage, you can still average 25 to 26mpg with the A/C on. Maintenance expenses have been very low (under $50 in 12k miles). Oil changes are at 7500 miles (normal driving conditions)! Ride quality is better than most vehicles Ive driven in its size range.

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  I love this car!! - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By ramona - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Just bought this car and love it!! I bought the 5 speed, and am having a great time driving it. It really is responsive, and the interior has features I wouldnt expect at such a price.

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  Great little Zipper - 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage
  By itisi - January 12 - 2:00 am

  Great Little economy car. Had it for over 3 years, never any problems. Hit a deer once and we survived, and its still going strong. Its zips nicely along, lacking a bit in power (especially with the air on) but what can you expect for this price. Had the opportunity to drive same car in automatic on vacation in Puerto Rico (where this car seems to be the favorite all around) and stay clear from this one if youd like to have some accelleration. Cheers, and happy motoring. (now where can I write a review for a 1975 merc. 240D?

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  Positive experience - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By LYN TRAVIS - January 12 - 2:00 am

  After driving what seemed like every car in town, I bought the OZ Lancer because of its great combination of sporty style and pure practicality. At 6 foot 2 inches tall, I found the interior to fit better than most of the competition. styling is sporty without being to over the top at least in white. The interior is very functional and sporty with all the necessary amenities. This car handles well and has really good ride. The adaptive automatic transmission does a great job of agreeing with your driving style.I would probably not buy this car if you are looking for real performance car but if your looking for a little pizazz without giving up any practicality, this is the car.