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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  Hershers like GTs - 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By doobesq - December 30 - 10:00 am

  It took me about 3 months to settle on my car, short by my standards. Ive never owned a Mitsubishi, so I was a bit leery of trying them out. So far, Im very pleased. I change oil, but thats about it. The car hums and absolutely loves to run. It has great mid-range power and acceptable low-end torque thanks to the V6. This is a great compromise between a sports-car and a daily driver.

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  Another happy owner - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By John - December 27 - 10:03 pm

  I traded the 99 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd for my Endeavor . Yeah, a bit of a step down, what what a steal for the price. GREAT leg room, nice cargo area.

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  2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT (Got Torque) - 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By neogeo - December 26 - 5:46 pm

  This car is just awesome. It is the best Eclipse ever. I put it in first, second, third, fourth, fifth, six gear and it just wants more power. The initial takeoff is amazing and it is an eye catcher if youre single. It has great response, a great sound, and amazing control. I just wish I can find ground effects for this car soon, before everyone has one.

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  The best SUV youve never heard of - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By SUVfan - December 25 - 11:23 pm

  Bought the Outlander looking for a very safe, very well equipped family vehicle that still had the styling a young man would appreciate. This had it all. It has a great, fuel efficient 6 cylinder engine, a state of the art safety cage/ front and side airbags combination, responsive breaks, the best sound system I have ever heard (Rockford Fosgate upgrade is a no-brainer), soft, comfortable leather, and it rides like a dream. What a great discovery!

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  Lancer ES Review - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bnnmalone - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I looked at several different makes of cars and took the Mitsubishi Lancer for a test drive after I tested the others. It was no comparison. The Lancer was more responsive and had plenty of pep. The vehicles exterior is very attractive and has smooth lines. I really liked the OZ version but for around $3,000.00 more I can live with it and add to it as I go. I couldnt be more pleased with this vehicle.

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  2002 Silver Eclipse GS 2002 - 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Jenna - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I love my 2002 Eclipse GS. I love the new body style of the Eclipse because the back seat is bigger and the trunk is a little bigger. My Eclipse has the new sportronic transmission and it is awesome! This car drives so smooth and it hugs the road GREAT! IT also gets great fuel acconomy. The only problem i have had with my car was the clips that hold the trunk cover on breaking and making noise.

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  My Mitsu Outlander is perfect for me! - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Kathleen - December 21 - 1:16 pm

  This was my first new vehicle ever and the whole experience has been great. The Outlander is fun, lively, handles like a dream, gives me good performance on the highway and comfort for my kids,, and uses regular gas and cheap tires! I got through the gas hike just fine! Im going to trade this year to preserve resale but plan to buy another OUTLANDER! Its the same overall size as Montero, just shorter, and for the money, its a great deal. It would make a great vehicle for a college student or young driver.

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  Love it - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By gottogetupandrive - December 21 - 10:00 am

  I had a 2002 Galant. Stoped in for a service check and loved the 2004 model. Bought it 2 days later. I went on a test drive loved the new style and features they changed. More leg room and trunk. Saw it, drove it, bought it, Love it!

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  Great Sedan - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By adhi - December 21 - 10:00 am

  As a driver of Saab, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz vehicles, i was skeptical of buying a Mitsubishi Galant as a secondary car, which i would later give to my son. However, this car has won me over. I purchased with the warranty, saftey and power specs in mind, but the automobile itself is excellent. I am impressed by the design, power and quality of the car. This car is a great alternative to the Accord, Camry or Altima, for those who think the aforementioned three are just a tad staid. This car has a sport-oriented soul, and i am pleased with my purchase.

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  Its 99% Made in Japan - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Norbert Saska - December 21 - 10:00 am

  I drove in my 95 Eclipse to the dealership not thinking that Im leaving with a brand new Lancer. Ive bought cars before and Im really affraid of dealerships and its usually a whole day process, not at Coconut Creek Mits, I walked in at 6:30 left by 8PM. Now thats what I call service. Got a great deal on my trade in and on the brand new Lancer