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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  Great Vehicle - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By sailing216 - April 4 - 2:00 am

  We bought it 8 months used and we got a deal, 23k for a LTD. 36k miles later extremely reliable. Looked at new Pilot(boring), MDX (pay sticker), Explorer (not sold on reliability). 3rd seat is great, sunroof is AWSOME, interior is second only to the 50k+ Landcruiser. Its heavier and bigger, but will keep up with the Pilot/MDX accelerating. Really surprised by the great Ride, was expecting Truck. Reliability has been flawless and handling has impoved with different tires.This the best Value/Luxury/size out there. MPG is 16city, 20 highway every trip-19 if we hit big hills

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  Galants Are Great - 2002 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Jon&Stacy - April 4 - 2:00 am

  Good car for inexpensive price. Would Highly recommend.

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  Just got one - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Outlanded - April 4 - 2:00 am

  I took the plunge on the Outlander. Similar cars (outback, rav4 etc) in its class dont even come close on the amenities/ style. This car has exceeded my expectations in every way. I tested it out in the snow, freezing rain and I couldnt be happier with it. Oh and BTW if youre concerned about the small (140hp) engine, dont worry. I was initially concerned about this too from all the posts I read, but these are from folks who are expecting a 200hp monster truck or a sports car. IMHO, this car can handle its own... But anyway, it is so much fun to drive, why rush?!

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  08 Lancer - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Lancer - April 3 - 11:50 am

  I love this car. Its my first "new" car and for the price I am 100% satisfied with what I got. I love the sound of the mivec when you get on it a little. There has only been a couple things I dont love about my new lancer: I wish the 5 speed had another gear; when I am cruising at 70 and my rpm are just over 3k, I feel like I am straining it even though Im not. (it does have some crazy response in 5th though, jumping up into the triple digits with just a little push!) and gas mileage could be a little better especially with the way prices are going. But in all, Im very happy with the car. Its a joy to drive every day!

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  Just Right - 2008 Mitsubishi Galant
  By William Hernandez - April 1 - 9:23 pm

  Engine perfomance is great. I have ES model with a 2.4 and it has plenty of guts. Its smoothness on the road makes you forget how fast you may be driving. This cost me a speeding ticket the first week I bought the car. I started using the steering wheel mounted cruise control feature to avoid any more tickets. It handles steady and well around curves. The 4 speed Sportstronic transmission gives me the option to change to a clutchless shifting mode for either a fast take off when necessary or to avoid heating breaks on down hills. I have many compliments from friends on its appearance. To say the least it has a conservative and elegant but yet sporty look. Perfect for my age bracket.

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  2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES CVT - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By chewy1885 - March 30 - 11:26 pm

  The car is a great choice for the money. You get great performance with awesome comfort. It is a sports car that is a great family car. I got the silver with everything except the navigation.

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  montero the other luxury suv - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By maynardo - March 30 - 10:00 am

  One of the most comfortable suv to drive. Im talking long driving experience. Its reliable lots of leg,head and hips room.Youll be driving with your head up high.

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  I love this car! - 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Ryan - March 29 - 11:50 am

  I have had my Eclipse for about five months now. I really enjoy this car! Once the 4 banger is broken in it really wakes up and has no problem leaving rubber! It drives very smoothly with very little body role. It allso has a remarkable stereo! The bass can shake the car next to you! Every time I look at the car it looks sleeker and more sexy. I sugest you go look at one up close and soak up the car from all angles and you will see what I mean. Pictures do not do this car justice, you need to see it up close.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By CayC - March 26 - 8:23 am

  The only thing wed change about the Mitsubishi Outback is the back seats should completely flatten. If they made this a hybrid version of it Id by it in a minute.

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  Rental - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Endeavor Envy - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I have not yet purchased this vehicle. I had it as a rental and loved it. Seriously considering getting one. Very nice ride. Built like an SUV, although rides very smooth. Lots of pep. Fun to drive.