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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  The best SUV out there - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Adrian - August 13 - 10:43 pm

  My dad had purchased this Montero Limited in silver and it was fully loaded with all the options. He really enjoys driving this car because it was his favorite car when he did his research. For me I love this SUV. If Mitsubishi would add a V8 then the gas mileage would be much worse. But since its a V6 you can actually add parts to the engine to make it faster. The best thing about this Montero is the moonroof it has. Its very big and stylish. You can also add stepbars to make it better looking and much easier to get in. No problems. Mitsubishi did a nice job on the Montero. But the 2003 and newer look uglier now. Also you can and I recommend install an alarm with car starter.

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  Great car for the price - 2006 Mitsubishi Galant
  By dscarchick - August 12 - 2:50 pm

  I bought my used Galant 6 months ago and so far its been the most reliable car Ive owned. Its the first import Ive owned as well. Very comfortable to drive and I get 29 mpg with the 6 cylinder engine. Granted, it isnt a German luxury car but if your looking for an affordable used car with a good reputation, this is it. I like it so much in fact, im going to buy a 2012 model when my financial situation improves. I was bummed to hear 2012 was the last year but who knows, maybe Mitsubishi will make a new full size car with similar features. Overall, a good buy.

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  Nice Truck - 1999 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By hernando - August 11 - 5:10 pm

  I had this truck for over 2 yrs. I really like it. I lived in snowy MA and it handles great in the snow and ice. The tires dont seem to have worn much and no brake work yet. I used to commute 45 mi one way, 5 days a week and I find the drivers seat comfy. Not a 10 but, not awful either. The body is sharp looking and black looks great. Ive also installed a hitch and have towed 5k lbs no problem. Gas is ok at around 20-24 mpg on the 3.0L v6. The negatives...stupidly placed cup holders, crappy stock stereo, and the price of parts (a reason to buy American). I have 102k mi on this and have only had the regular mtc done (belts, plugs, etc). Id buy again.

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  Great sports average car - 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback
  By joe - August 11 - 1:10 am

  I think its a great car. It has a good looking design. While its not totally up to par with the Mazda3, it is still excellent. The fuel mileage is not the best, but then again its a sports car. Ive been told by the passengers that the room in the back seat is surprisingly spacious. Great stereo system. Feels great to drive

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  2006 Outlander AWD - 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By don williamson - August 9 - 8:53 pm

  The 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander is exactly the right SUV for our needs. It performs better than expected.

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  Warrior Galant - 2000 Mitsubishi Galant
  By MiamiGalant - August 9 - 11:43 am

  I purchased this car in 2007 at an auto auction as a previous rental car with a whopping 185,000! I couldnt believe this car was still running so good. I kept the car for my father and today this car has 231,756. My father probably changed the oil 2-3 during his ownership and this car still runs great, no problems whatsoever. Mitsubishi did great with these, I really underestimated them.

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  READ if you wanna know if this is ok - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By nycguy27 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Mitsubishi product. I love it. Period. Mitsu is infamous for their garbage GALANT and shoddy ECLIPSE. Never had a tipsy moment (read Car and Driver not Consumer Report). The luxury appointments are good. If you like the style...need a 4 wheeler that can ride like a car.....and dont wanna blow your cash on depreciating assets....get this car. I will have this vehicle for countless miles....its RELIABLE and made 100% in JAPAN - which for Mitsu is a good thing.

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  my favorite car - 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By chucktrain - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy this car. It suits my needs to a T. I also enjoy the great mileage I get since I drive a lot of miles every day in town.

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  99 Galant - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By JoeSup - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Overall pretty good car except for brakes. No real problems in 85K miles

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  2004 Galant:: What a surprise! - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By kdelight - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The newly redesigned 2004 Galant has moved this model up a serious notch from 2003. While searching the web for a $20,000 car, the new Galant popped up and caught my eye with its new style and much improved gas milage. We intended try the Accord, Civic Hybrid, and the Galant. After seeing the Galant, we walked across the street to the Honda dealership and found both cars to be boring and tired in appearance and performance. We returned to purchase the Galant with fun packages like a moon roof, 6 CD changer, 16" wheels, etc. and still stay in our price range. Great pick-up and smooth sailing! No irritating pings or problems either.