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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  No reason to look anywhere else - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By abbey - October 20 - 10:00 am

  This was the best buying experience ever due to the quality and professionalism of our sales rep. The last time I bought a car was 10 years ago, so I was very apprehensive. I looked at a couple other SUVs and was totally sold on this one. The comfort and aesthetics of this vehicle are unbelieveable. Its more than what I was looking for. We drove it home that night - why look anywhere else?

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  Better than expected - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Jackie - October 20 - 12:53 am

  I had to get rid of my 2009 lancer ralliart because it needed very expensive repairs. I literally cried. I loved that car. However, I am pregnant and needed something more practical anyways. My old car had two 10" subs in the back and no room for a stroller. I knew this car would not live up to that car since my old car had AWD and a turbo. I like driving fast. Ive been pleasantly surprised with the "get up and go" this car has. Not comparing it to my lancer of course. However, a few years ago I had a 2008 Ford Escape and that thing was so slow to go. I havent been using the paddle shifters, but I might give them a try. I also need to learn better how to really use the CVT transmission. Im used to a SST transmission. I enjoy the upgrades on this model, but Ill admit that some of them seem kind of random. I wouldve taken dual climate control over heated heats. I think the HID headlights are pretty nice though and I like the accent of the led lights that are always on. The panoramic glass roof is cool, but it doesnt open for fresh air. So thats another upgrade that I dont really understand. The headlights are adjustable up and down , bluetooth audio, rockford fosgate sound system that includes tweeters and a built in 10" sub in the back, mood lighting on the panoramic roof, rain sensing wipers, chrome accents inside, back up camera. The only thing I feel that I am missing is navigation (which I honestly wouldnt use much) and leather seats. Just putting the stroller in the back takes up a lot of cargo space. I kind of wish it was a little larger back there. I know my Escape had more room in the back. I plan on keeping this car for about 3 years and then getting my race car again. This time it will be a Subaru WRX STI since Mistubishi decided to end the Lancer Evolution. Kind of pissed about that! Whats the deal Mistubishi?!

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  Great Value for the Money - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By GE04 - October 15 - 5:50 am

  I have owned my Mitsubishi Galant for about twenty months now. It is a great car, yery fast with excellent handling. However, I am not as happy with the ride at highway speeds. The car tends to jump around with the road surface. It does not feel well planted. Other than that everything else is wonderful. I especially like the 280 watt Infinity sound system. The car is also a head turner with its agressive looks. Other people, especially those driving the Pontiac Grand Prix, always want to race. Its hard to beat 0 to 60 in 6.5 sec.

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  I love my 1999 Galant DE Grace! - 1999 Mitsubishi Galant
  By valeries3 - October 14 - 6:45 pm

  I bought my car on June 25, 1999 with 25 miles on the odometer and I named her Grace. Im in tears because I finally traded Grace in on April 12, 2014 -- she had 419,574 miles on her with the original engine. The transmission went up on her at 402,359 miles in May 2013 and I actually had a transmission put in because I couldnt give up on her. She never gave me any problems even with the high miles. How did I get so many miles on her? I made sure the oil was changed religiously and did all flushes (dont laugh) that Jiffy Lube suggested. I also followed the guidelines from Mitsubishi for the tune-ups for the first 5 years. Grace is now in Frederick, MD at Renn Kirby Mitsubishi.

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  The Right Car - 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By karatedvm - October 13 - 1:23 pm

  After looking for more than 1.5 yrs for a smaller SUV that didnt look like a womans car I kept coming back to the Outlander. Only had mine for 2 weeks but its proving itself the right vehicle for me. After 2+ years of not driving a 4WD SUV I had to get back to what was right for me and my dogs. This vehicle is spacious especially with the back seat folded forward. The fuel economy is better than I had hoped after only 2 weeks - averaging ~24mpgs combined. Handles well, cant wait for snow - actually I can wait forever for snow but by Lake Erie in northeastern Ohio it wont be long. A little hard to keep clean, the interior attracts and holds dog hair. Wish I had all leather interior.

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  Never Again - 2000 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By rktex - October 13 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle loses value faster than I have ever experienced. It has a constant tick in the engine due to a flawed lifter design; seats are uncomfortable for any multi-hour trip. Back seats sit at such an angle that they jar your spine on any bumps. Unfortunately it is now really a Chrysler product under the covers, and therefore not reliable or supported after the sale.

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  Lovin my Endeavor! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Lisa F. - October 13 - 10:00 am

  I love my Endeavor! I have 2 kids and we have a built in DVD player. It is fun to drive and gives the four of us the room we need.

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  Best kept secret - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Limited Owner - October 13 - 5:13 am

  Before you buy an SUV you should drive the Mitsubishi Montero Limited. Big dealer discounts make this vehicle a bargain. Lots of style and attitude, plus a responsive drive train.

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  I Love My Mitsubishi - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By SueBee - October 12 - 9:53 pm

  I have had my Mitsubishi since 2003, and LOVE it. I have only had a couple of minor things go wrong, and they were covered by the warranty. It has over 80,000 miles and still purrs like a kitten. I have no regrets about buying this car, and plan to drive it as long as its faithful to me. Why would I trade it in when I am bonded to it?

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  Love it - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Gary - October 11 - 1:06 pm

  My 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavors ride is secure and stable. The road noise can be a little harsh, but I feel safe in this vehicle. The versatility has been useful, carrying everything from groceries to furniture. My only beef with the vehicle is the premium fuel requirement.