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 performance, great value - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Brett - October 22 - 4:33 pm

  Have been driving my 2007 Outlander ES for a while now. Styling is exactly what Id always liked and build quality seems solid so far. Interior appointments are excellent even on my base model. A real pleasant surprise is all Outlanders come with car alarm standard (good for saving on insurance). Long warranty is generous and transferable to 2nd owner. Performance is the best part and what makes this SUV stands out from other compact to midsized SUVs. Its got enough zoom and zip to make driving fun. Great compact SUV!

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  Great car, but do your homework. - 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Slowrider - October 19 - 10:23 pm

  This is not a car for beginners and shorter folks. The gas mileage is decent usually 20-25 mpg, if you want v6 power you get v6 mileage. Make sure you understand repair cost if you decide to purchase this car for the long run. For instance timing belt is usually $300-500 depending on where you get it done and the MAF sensor is between $110-625 depending on where you go. It does take time to get used to seeing properly. If you are a good driver itll take about a week. The car does understeer and takes some time to get use to but it can take bumps and bad roads fairly well.

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  Lancer GTS is a Fun Vehicle to Drive - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By terrynconnct - October 19 - 11:20 am

  The vehicle has a unique look that sets it apart from other vehicles. It has a great pickup for a 4 cyl 2.0 engine and with the optional paddle shift, it provides even greater excitement. The on-board LCD display with GPS navigation and high end sound system just adds to greater enjoyment.

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  Love the car hate the salesman! - 2001 Mitsubishi Galant
  By womewhere - October 19 - 10:00 am

  I went in with a trade and had 2 salesmen with me at all times, took my original car keys never delt with issue of price reduction on their car only dickering with price on my trade in. Told me the cars on the lot were certified and they had the extended 10/100,000 warranty. Very disappointed with the dealership; felt they misled me;paid too much for the vehicle however not unhappy with it. i have 30 days/1500 miles whichever comes first which is normal on used vehicle. Salesperson is miserable never folllows up on his phone calls or followups. poor salesmanship. Would I go back ..NO!

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  Elegance without the cost - 2004 Mitsubishi Galant
  By TXDigger - October 19 - 10:00 am

  I was astounded when I saw the new design of the 04 Galant GTS. Black exterior with black interior, so many "options" are standard, its a deal waiting to happen. The ride is smooth and quiet. The Infinity sound system with 6-CD changer and EIGHT speakers...its like a concert hall on the road. It beats Lincoln LS from bumper to bumper. The same is true with the "little" Cadillac (cant remember the letters). Dont go lower than GTS. For less than $25K after a bit of dickering, youll love it.

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  Good looks and power to boot - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Zoomie - October 19 - 10:00 am

  More than enough power for a V-6. Rides over the road in a very smooth and controlling ride. Tons of leg room and ample space in the back for a long trip.

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  Love this car! - 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante
  By Rev Dee - October 17 - 6:53 pm

  I have had my 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante for four years and have had very few problems. I love the torque and the ride. I also love the look and the feel.

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  Great Car - Everything I Want in a Sedan - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Galantboy - October 15 - 2:00 am

  The ES with the upgraded sun and sound package is a blast....open the sun roof and crank up the stereo. Handles extremely well, and at high speeds, around 110mph, the car holds the road like a racer. Try that in a Taurus or Camry and youll end up in a ditch.

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  Great car,can be better - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By rosemarycars - October 15 - 2:00 am

  Great car,only thing you need to use hi- test gas.Can never feel very comfortable in the drivers seat.Overall, a great car.

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  Simply superlative - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By geralt - October 15 - 2:00 am

  I have this car for three monts, and absolutly love it. Have driven numerous small cars and none compare to this one. Room, ride, handling are outstanding. Fun car with plenty of speed for your average driver. Reliability is flawless, proven by German TUV. Lancer beats even a Mercedes and BMW. Have not had any problems at all with this car and would buy another in a second. Maybe even EVO VII.