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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  Unique, Fun SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Beetle - June 3 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Montero. Also owned an 89 and a 94. Quality and Confort are great. New larger 3.7 litre engine is a big improvement. This is a HEAVY vehicle you feel safe in. Had it for about 4 weeks - and im not disappointed. A quality built and unique looking SUV.

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  Lancer GTS is a great car for the price - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By AaronB - May 30 - 9:40 pm

  I did a lot of research before I decided to buy this car, and I couldnt be happier with my decision. You get a lot of car for your money. Some decent factory equipment (unfortunately mine didnt come with the nav system). Surprisingly comfortable for a small car with a driver whos 62 (3 inches of head room). The new exterior redesign is just awesome. Really a fun car to drive. The only real complaint I have is that this car could use more horses.

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  Very Happy - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By lczick17 - May 29 - 10:00 am

  Had it 5 months now. Very Happy! My wife and I both have bad backs. These are the most comfortable seats we have ever had. Took about 2K miles for the engine to break in and give 20MPG around town. The dash layout is great, it puts everything at your finger tips. Ive had many people comment on the looks.

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  Mini-Ferrari - 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By tachyon1701 - May 29 - 10:00 am

  Lets be honest here, this car is definately a looker. Its especially popular with the ladies for some reason, which i dont mind at all =). Its visual presence is 2nd to none in a $10,000US range. Althought mine is only a I4, i gotta tell you, it is a BIG 4 cylinder engine. 2.4 liters with a 100m stroke pushes out quite a bit of torque, although HP/L ratio leaves something to be desired. Speaking of gas, it can go more than 700KM on a 62Litre tank. Not too bad for such a big 4 cyl! RSXs and Celica GTs do a little better but thats on a 2.0 and 1.8 WITH variable valve timing!

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  A muscle car - 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Big Guns - May 24 - 10:00 am

  A sharp looking vehicle and a enjoyable driving machine. Has a tough look about it which is a eye catcher while driving through town.

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  montero sport - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  By Billy Atmur - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I thought that this car was very well built i liked it but i would have appreciated a better transmission and ho bout a little more speed?

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  My 2004 Endeavor - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By beachgoer - May 22 - 5:05 pm

  So far, I have 215,000 miles on this SUV. The only non-maintenance item that I had to change are the 2 rear power window motors, which actually a small plastic piece broke off which held the cable assembly. When I purchased this SUV, I was really worried about the quality, but so far its been fantastic. Im crossing my fingers it will last through the end of 2014 without any major problems.

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  The best car I have ever owned. - 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By Chuck B. - May 21 - 6:10 pm

  This is my 4th eclipse, Mitsubishi knows what they are doing. They make the vast improvements with the vehicle years. This model pretty much takes the best of every body style and puts it into a powerful, reliable, well controlled, tank. This car is for the price the best buy for the buck.

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  Best Galant ever! - 2009 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Big Buse - May 21 - 4:06 pm

  The whole experience of the 2009 V6 sport is extraordinary! Extremely smooth ride, and when take off power is needed, it is definitely there! Very classy and luxurious look with its leather interior and sun/moon roof. Definitely puts my old 2007 to shame. Look out US and Euro competitors... you have a big problem on your hands.

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  Galant GTS - 2005 Mitsubishi Galant
  By Carl - May 21 - 10:10 am

  Handles extemely well and has good acceleration. Very smooth at high speeds on the interstate. The stereo is awesome. Have had some problems with the sunroof but these were resolved by the dealership. As of this time at 23000 miles it has been flawless.