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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  Mountain Climber - 2004 Mitsubishi Montero
  By SafeInSnow - November 21 - 4:13 pm

  My wife and I call this the Mountain Climber. Its ability to grip the road in all conditions (snow, sleet, rain, mud) is amazing. I really wish they would make a 2010 version. Compared w/ all other SUVs, this is the hidden diamond (get it?). 3 rows of seating, HUGE storage, and awesome cabin feel.

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  Better Than Volvo - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By LifeUncommon - November 19 - 6:23 pm

  I bought my 04 Endeavor in Jan. 05. I had looked at the Volvo XC90 for a long time and was going to get that but decided to look at the Endeavor after seeing one on the road. I INSTANTLY fell in love. The drive is fantastic, very comfortable, great display, style is "HOT!" Its now been over a year and I am currently in the market to trade it in on a brand new one! I think I will drive Endeavors for the rest of my life!

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  UJs Galant - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By jammikk - November 19 - 10:43 am

  I have been driving this car for almost a year, and I still smile when I get behind the wheel. Its oil stays clear, it has no leaks, smoke, vibration, wobble or "clunks." Im glad I didnt get a Ford Taurus.

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  GREAT CAR - 2003 Mitsubishi Diamante
  By William Dunn - November 19 - 2:00 am

  The heated leather seats, heated mirrors, 7 CD in dash player and the Platinum white color made the car a must have. After looking at and driving Infinity I35, Acura TL, Honda Accord, Lincoln LS and others the combination of luxury, color, driveability and the cash back made the decision for my wife and me. The best car we ever owned was a 1991 Mitsubishi Mirage that finally had problems at more than 208,000 miles. If this mitsubishi Diamanti LS is half the car of previous 1991 Mitsubishi, we will be very happy.

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  What a Hot Car - 1999 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By lbritain - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE my Montero Sport. Bought it new in 1999 and cant bear to part with it. Fun to drive - have never had any mechanical problems in 5 years and 52000 miles. changed brake pads at 35000 miles - no problems - fun and easy to drive. Suspension is a little stiff for a bit more rougher ride but still comfortable. No body problems - 5 years old and still looks brand new.

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Amit - November 16 - 7:56 pm

  I have nothing but praises for this vehicle. Its built to last, has a powerful V6 engine and is a fun ride. I have had this vehicle for over 4 years now and used it for over 45K miles. The only other thing that I had to do besides the regular oil servicing was to change the brake rotors a couple of times (which is common to all vehicles, std life span being 2 yrs) .

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  One of the Nicest SUV - 2004 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Monty 2004 - November 14 - 4:43 pm

  The Mitsubishi Montero is one of the best vehicles one can own. I can see people complaining about its fuel economy but which midsized SUV doesnt have bad fuel economyThe interior and exterior are excellent, extremely stylish. This truck is extremely comfortable.

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  My First Import - 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Linda Jones - November 13 - 7:06 am

  I have never bought a non-American car before. I have been driving Cryslers Sebrings and Dodge Avengers since the Avenger first came out. I do like the previous cars, but they no longer make a Sebring with a manual transmission and I couldnt find a used one. The Eclipse caught my eye with its stying. I LOVE it. Its very fun to drive! I love the looks and feel. Well see about the reliability. Time will tell. I sure hope it holds up as well as the Cryslers, as I have very good luck with them. This car is quieter as well. It does not have as much road noise. It handles like a dream and is very comfortable to drive. The lumbar feature is wonderful on the back on long drives!

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  great for the cost - 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Jimbo567 - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Excellent drive and value for the money. The car handles well and is very quick when needed. Excellent chick magnet

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  Great Value, Comfort and Reliability - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By jhmh - November 13 - 2:00 am

  I find the Outlander to be comfortable and stylish. The 2.4 liter engine provides the power level I expected (what do you expect from a 4 cylinder?). I think it is enough power for most drivers. After reading through almost all of the other reviews, I have found some common complaints. 1)The vehicle pulls to one side. I dont think this is an alignment problem. 2)Under hard acceleration, the muffler or something in the exhaust sounds like it is loose or has a hole in it. I checked the NHTSA website for recalls on these two specific items, but there are not any. Overall, I think this is a strong buy for the money.