Are Mitsubishi cars the hidden gem of the automotive world, or do they fall short of the hype? It’s a question worth asking if you’re eyeing a Mitsubishi Mirage zipping through city streets or an Outlander tackling family road trips. Mitsubishi Motors, a name with over a century of history, has built everything from rugged SUVs to rally legends like the Lancer Evolution. But in today’s crowded car market, are Mitsubishi good cars worth your hard-earned money? In this blog post, we’ll dig into the nitty-gritty—reliability, performance, safety, fuel efficiency, cost of ownership, and customer satisfaction—to help you decide if Mitsubishi deserves a spot in your driveway.
Mitsubishi kicked off in 1917, and over the decades, it’s earned a rep for tough vehicles that can take a beating. Think rally champs and off-road beasts like the Pajero. Today, though, the lineup’s shifted toward practical options like the Eclipse Cross, Outlander Sport, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) like the Outlander PHEV. They’re not the flashiest brand on the block, but they’ve carved out a niche for budget-friendly, no-nonsense rides. So, let’s break it down and see how they stack up.
Reliability
Does Mitsubishi Stand the Test of Time?
When you’re shopping for a car, reliability’s a big deal—nobody wants to be stuck with a lemon. Mitsubishi’s got a mixed track record here. Back in the day, they were champs at building durable machines. Models like the Pajero (or Montero in some markets) are still praised by off-road fans for racking up miles without breaking a sweat. But fast-forward to now, and the story’s a bit more complicated.
According to J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study, the Mitsubishi Outlander scores an 82 out of 100—not bad for a compact SUV, landing it right around average. Consumer Reports, though, gives the brand a so-so reliability rating, with the Outlander Sport and Mirage trailing behind pricier competitors. What’s tripping them up? Owners often point to common issues like CVT transmission complaints—think jerky shifts or early wear—especially in older Eclipse Cross and Outlander Sport models. Engine issues pop up too, like the 1.5-litre petrol engine in the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross guzzling more oil than expected.
So, how do they compare to the big dogs? Toyota’s got a rock-solid reputation—think Corolla or RAV4—with reliability ratings that consistently top charts. Honda’s not far behind, with the Civic and CR-V setting the bar high. Mitsubishi? It’s not in that league. A 2022 Consumer Reports survey ranked Mitsubishi 18th out of 28 brands for reliability—not awful, but not inspiring either. That said, if you’re after a reliable model with regular maintenance, the Pajero’s a legend, and even the Outlander holds its own for family haulers.
My take? If you’re cool with routine maintenance and don’t expect Toyota-level perfection, Mitsubishi’s reliability won’t leave you stranded. But if bulletproof longevity’s your game, you might peek elsewhere.
Performance
How Does Mitsubishi Drive?
Performance is where Mitsubishi shows off its split personality—some models shine, others… not so much. Let’s talk engines first. The Eclipse Cross rocks a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine pumping out 152 horsepower—decent for city driving, but don’t expect it to win any drag races. The Outlander steps it up with a 2.5-litre gasoline engine delivering 181 hp, plenty of power for hauling kids or groceries. Want something greener? The Outlander PHEV mixes a gas engine with electric motors for about 220 hp, plus up to 38 miles of electric-only range.
But power’s only half the story—what’s the ride like? The Outlander’s smooth handling and responsive steering make it a comfy daily driver, even if it’s not sporty. The Eclipse Cross ups the ante with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), a slick system that keeps you steady on wet roads or light trails. Meanwhile, the Mitsubishi Mirage? Its 1.2-litre engine churns out a measly 78 hp—fine for dodging traffic, but it’ll struggle on highways. Ride quality’s basic too, with a suspension that’s more about fuel economy than comfort.
How does Mitsubishi stack up? Subaru’s AWD mastery (think Forester) gives it an edge for rugged performance, while Hyundai’s Kona offers sportier kicks. Mitsubishi’s S-AWC is solid, but across the lineup, performance varies wildly—from the Mirage’s “meh” to the Outlander’s “pretty good.” Ever wonder what it’s like to push these cars to the limit? For me, the Outlander’s balance of power and ride quality wins, but thrill-seekers might find it tame.
Safety
Can You Count on Mitsubishi When It Matters Most?
Safety’s a big deal, right? You want a car that’ll protect you and your crew if things get hairy. So, how do Mitsubishi cars hold up? Let’s break down their crash test ratings, safety features, and how they stack up against the competition.
The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander is the star of the show, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)—that’s the gold standard, folks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it a four-star rating, which isn’t perfect but still solid. Other models like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport pull in four-star ratings from NHTSA too, proving Mitsubishi Motors has a decent track record. Picture this as a table: Outlander with its Top Safety Pick+ and four stars, Eclipse Cross at four stars, and Outlander Sport matching that four-star rating. Not bad, though I’d love to see a few more five-star ratings in the mix!
What about safety features? Mitsubishi doesn’t skimp here. Standard features include Forward Collision Mitigation—think automatic brakes if a crash is looming—plus Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert for those tricky parking lot moments. Optional advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system are available too, giving you an amazing driving position and extra peace of mind. Compared to Mazda, which loads even base models with safety tech, or Kia, with its top-notch security solutions, Mitsubishi’s offerings are strong but not the absolute best. Still, that Top Safety Pick+ for the Outlander shows they’re serious about keeping you safe.
Are Mitsubishi good cars for safety? In my book, yeah—they’re a friendly option, especially if you’re eyeing the Outlander for family duty.
Fuel Efficiency
How Far Will Mitsubishi Take You on a Tank?
Nobody wants to keep stopping for gas, right? Fuel efficiency can make or break a car’s appeal. So, how does Mitsubishi perform here? Let’s check out the MPG figures, hybrid options, and real-world insights.
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a total champ, delivering 36 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. That’s some serious fuel economy for a gasoline engine—no hybrid needed! The Mitsubishi Outlander, running a 2.5-liter petrol engine, gets 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway—pretty good for a midsize SUV. Then there’s the Outlander PHEV, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that’s an alternative to diesel power. It boasts a 38-mile electric range and 26 mpg combined when the gas kicks in. That’s perfect for city driving or short commutes.
How do they compare to the fuel efficiency ratings of big dogs like the Toyota Prius or Honda Civic? The Prius rules the hybrid vehicles roost with over 50 mpg, while the Civic’s 1.5-litre petrol engine still delivers impressive mileage. The Mirage keeps up with non-hybrid rivals, and the Outlander PHEV is a solid middle ground. Owners back this up—Mirage drivers say they hit close to 43 mpg on highways, per Edmunds forums, while Outlander folks report mid-20s in mixed driving. Not groundbreaking, but reliable enough.
Are Mitsubishi good cars for stretching your fuel budget? Definitely—the Mirage and Outlander PHEV especially shine if you’re after efficiency with plenty of power.
Cost of Ownership
What’s Mitsubishi Really Gonna Cost You?
A car’s sticker price is just the start—cost of ownership is where the rubber meets the road. So, how does Mitsubishi stack up on purchase price, maintenance, and resale value? Let’s dig in.
Mitsubishi’s all about affordability. The Mitsubishi Mirage starts under $17,000—one of the cheapest new rides out there, per Car and Driver. The Eclipse Cross and Outlander Sport are budget-friendly too, often undercutting the Honda HR-V or Toyota RAV4 by a few thousand bucks. Maintenance costs? RepairPal pegs the average annual repair cost for Mitsubishi at $535—below the industry average of $652. Routine maintenance on the Mirage runs about $450 a year, though watch out for pricier repair costs on the Outlander if you hit common issues like transmission failure or engine issues.
Resale value’s the tough spot. A three-year-old Outlander retains just 50% of its value, while a RAV4 holds 60% or more, per Kelley Blue Book. But Mitsubishi’s 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty—way better than Nissan or Ford’s 3-year deals—soften that blow. Total up the 5-year cost, including purchase price, annual repair cost, and depreciation, and Mitsubishi often beats out brands like Nissan or Ford, especially for budget buyers. Plus, used Mitsubishis? They’re a steal—White Bear Mitsubishi even highlights how previous owner models offer amazing ride quality for less.
Customer Satisfaction
What’s the Word from Mitsubishi Owners?
So, you’re wondering: are Mitsubishi good cars? Let’s start with what real owners think—it’s the best way to get the scoop! Platforms like Edmunds give us a peek into the highs and lows. Owners often cheer for affordability and low cost of ownership. One happy driver said, “My Mitsubishi Outlander’s been flawless for 100,000 miles—talk about reliable models!” But it’s not all perfect. Some folks knock the interior quality, especially in the Mitsubishi Mirage. A common gripe? “The Mirage feels cheap inside.” Still, safety features and fuel economy get plenty of love, especially in models like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross with its amazing driving position.
What about the experts? J.D. Power’s 2023 Customer Satisfaction Index ranks Mitsubishi 20th out of 32 brands—not topping the charts, but not scraping the bottom either. That middle-ground reliability rating tells us something: Mitsubishi Motors has a mixed bag. White Bear Mitsubishi notes that 2010-2019 model year vehicles have a stronger track record than older ones, showing improvement after past engine issues and transmission failure complaints. Owners of the Outlander Sport often praise its ride quality, while some previous owners of older models faced higher-than-average repair costs.
Reputation-wise, Mitsubishi’s had its struggles—think quality hiccups in the early 2000s. But recent efforts in standard features and maintenance cost control have turned heads. Are Mitsubishi good cars for happy drivers? If you’re cool with a practical ride and don’t need luxury, probably yes. If you’re picky about fancy interiors, maybe not.
Additional Considerations
What Else Makes Mitsubishi Tick?
Okay, customer vibes are one thing, but what about the extras? Warranty, tech, comfort, and green cred can make or break a car. Let’s dig deeper. Want to know more, visit our website…
Warranty Coverage
Mitsubishi’s warranty is a big win. You get a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty—way better than the usual 3-year deal from brands like Toyota. That’s a friendly option if you’re worried about annual repair costs or routine maintenance down the line. For budget buyers, this cuts the sting of potential repair costs, making ownership feel secure.
Technology and Infotainment
Tech-wise, Mitsubishi keeps it simple but solid. Most models rock an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—great for city driving tunes or navigation. The Eclipse Cross even throws in paddle shifters for a sporty kick, though some say the system’s a tad slow. It’s not the flashiest setup compared to premium brands, but it’s functional. No online attacks or security solution worries here—just straightforward connectivity.
Design and Comfort
Inside, Mitsubishi’s a tale of two vibes. The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a roomy cabin, comfy seats, and decent cargo space—perfect for families. Meanwhile, the Mirage leans basic with hard plastics and less legroom. Ride quality shines in the Outlander with its amazing ride, but the Mirage’s stiff suspension prioritizes fuel efficiency over plushness. Models with a 2.4-litre diesel engine or 1.5-litre petrol engine deliver practical power, though don’t expect plenty of power for thrill-seekers.
Environmental Impact
Going green? Mitsubishi’s got options. The Outlander PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) boasts a 38-mile electric range—ideal for short trips—and a four-star rating for efficiency. The Mirage’s gasoline engine sips fuel too, earning high fuel efficiency ratings. Mitsubishi’s pushing hybrid vehicles to meet market demands, especially in the American market where eco-friendly rides are gaining market share. It’s a solid alternative to diesel power if you care about the planet.
Are Mitsubishi good cars for these extras? You bet—especially if you want low annual cost and eco-conscious driving.
Conclusion
Are Mitsubishi Cars Your Match?
Time to tie it all together. Mitsubishi cars shine with affordability, advanced safety features, and fuel economy—think Mirage for penny-pinchers or Outlander for family hauls. That 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty sweetens the deal, keeping average ownership costs in check. But there’s a flip side: resale value’s weak, and performance can be inconsistent. Some models lack the zip of a performance engine oil-tuned ride, and common issues like transmission failure in older cars linger in memory.
Compared to Honda’s bulletproof terms of reliability or Toyota’s star rating rep, Mitsubishi’s a step behind. Still, J.D. Power and owner feedback show progress, and the brand’s focus on special attention to safety and low maintenance cost keeps it in the game. For budget buyers or families needing reliable models, Mitsubishi’s a contender. Car enthusiasts craving paddle shifters and power might pass, though.
