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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  2003 GTS - 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By wildcatome - July 16 - 10:00 am

  This car is fun to drive, so far very reliable, and looks great! The stereo is awesome for stock! I get about 32 MPG and do mostly highway driving. I do need to be careful, as the car likes to creep up in speed. It corners very well.

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  Eclipse is no.1! - 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  By CurlyKd03 - July 16 - 10:00 am

  perfect for teenagers! Nice acceloration for a 40 cyl. FUN to drive! Runs great!

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  Great Overall SUV - 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By DriveALot - July 15 - 2:03 am

  Bought my deep blue metallic with 3 miles on it, 2.5 years and 66,000 miles later this is absolutely a great vehicle. Seats do get a little uncomfortable after a bit of driving. Set the cruise and I get about 27 on highway and 19 around town, V6 front wheel drive, thats pretty good. I call it my Pack Mule, fold the rear seats forward and theres plenty of room to load everything from a set of bunk beds to a six foot ladder. Done all the preventative maintenance and its never missed a beat

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  Best Crossover on the Market...Hands Down! - 2011 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By demingboys - July 13 - 11:46 am

  I bought my 2011 Endeavor SE with the hopes of upgrading from a 2006 Buick SUV. I was astonished at the value of the vehicle on paper, even more so when I actually test drove it. I did a lot of research before making my choice to purchase a Mitsubishi. I have driven many SUVs and Crossovers and the Endeavor is by far the best choice for anyone in the market for a new vehicle. I absolutely love the quality, performance, and luxury combined in the Endeavor. I got such a great deal on this vehicle that I can honestly say I have no buyers remorse whatsoever. I am proud to drive this vehicle!

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  My 2009 Lancer GTS - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Rolando - July 11 - 4:43 am

  I just leased the 2009 Lancer GTS and looked at other compact, but sporty vehicles in this class, and I am sorry, there is no comparison. The exterior and interior are "A" class and the other dealers do not have anything that comes close. This is a keeper!

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  I LOVE MY NEW MITSUBISHI - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By BILLY HAYES - July 10 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS THE GREATEST VEHICLE ON THE PLANET

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  MY GALANT IS LOOKIN GOOD !!! - 2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  By "CARIBBEAN AL" - July 10 - 10:00 am

  This car is a WINNER !!! Exceptional value, comfort & style - Allot of BANG FOR THE BUCK !!! The best part of MY GALANT was the FANTASTIC experience I had buying from Bill Seidel Mitsubishi in Davie, FL. From the moment I walked in the showroom, from the salesman to the manager, I was treated with patience & respect. The DEAL took "FOUR DAYS" & I never felt preasure or uncomfortable.The CLASS ACT !!! Something that was hard to find elsewhere.

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  Best Buy for the Money! - 2004 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Joe Gordon - July 10 - 10:00 am

  We looked at the BMW, Lexus, Highlander, Pilot and Morano. This vehicle was bigger, better and stronger than the competition. Not to mention the price and deal Mitsubishi offers. The ride is very pleasant. Fun to drive. We get lots of people asking us on the road what type of vehicle this is. Lots of complements. We Absolutley Love it!

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  Great Experience - 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor
  By Larry - July 8 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Endeavor for 5 1/2 years now and at 95,000 miles had my first problem--not even a new car bug. (have kept all service, minor and major up to date). Just had to have propeller shaft and bearing assembly replaced due to bad bearings. But fully covered by 100,000 Mile powertrain warranty. Feel great this is the only issue in 95K miles!

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  The Best - 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
  By Adam - July 7 - 11:10 pm

  The 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander is a very nice vehicle. I think its the best.