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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  Love my Outlander - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By New Mitisubishi fan - October 11 - 7:23 am

  I originally wanted a RAV-4, Im glad I got the Outlander. It has a lot of pick up for a 4 cylinder, like the braking, pretty smooth ride, like the big tires. Amazed at the gas mileage, I was used to driving an SL1 Saturn. Some days I average 30 miles to the gallon, never less than 25. I really cant say enough good things about it.

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  Its Awesome - 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By aburke80 - October 10 - 8:26 am

  The sales consultant was very knowledgable and treated me with respect even though I wasnt dressed in my everyday business suit. Other than that, the car pretty much sold itself. Must get the 650W Rockford Fosgate upgraded audio system. It absolutely knocks your socks off. Its been the best purchase Ive made in a long time. Its a serious reason to rubberneck.

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  2000 Eclipse GT - 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Oliver - October 8 - 10:00 am

  After a shaky first year the car has been trouble free. Two problems that I took the car in for: AC stopped cooling shortly after use (factory overfilled refrigerent) and remote lock failed (receiver). Factory issued 5 recalls in first year but I did not experience the problems. This Eclipse has the Sportronic tranny which is convenient in the metro area and fun in the country.

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  2000 Eclipse - 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By pjjackson - October 8 - 10:00 am

  This car lacks the power of the previous turbo-charged Eclipse/ Plymouth Laser but the styling is nicer. The 3 L six uses premium fuel but averages 32-34 mph on the highway and about 28 overall. The suspension is a bit soft but, with good, well balanced tires, the ride is very good.

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  All around great car - 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By chris - October 5 - 5:50 pm

  I am very happy with my purchase, car has been flawless so far. Great performance for the money and awesome styling. Visibility is a major problem though. Car also likes to get silly when pushed hard in corners when flooring it. Car should have at least came with a LSD or AWD. Interior also should have higher quality. Although nice enough for most people the interior materials dont belong on a 30K car. All around Great buy with a lot of potential. Just with a CAI performance and engine sound is night and day. In the end you get a little more than what you pay before.

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  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.

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  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!

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  Updated comments - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Outlander2 - October 2 - 9:10 pm

  Two months ago I rated my newly purchased Outlander. I still feel that the car is very smooth. It rides very quiet and is very comfortable. I especially like the transmission, allowing to shift up and down on the go. The sound system is great. I found that the rear wiper to be almost useless. It does not clean a large enough surface to allow for a clear vue, The rear wiper is a pain to change. The plastic on which mudguards are mounted is beginning to deteriorate. Gas mileage is disappointing from a 4 cyl. car. I find the tires 215/55/17 to be oversize and the 94V rating in unnecessary for this car with a top speed of 120 mph. The windows and sunroof freeze when cold.

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  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.

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  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.