Mitsubishi

The Upside of Mitsubishi: A Glimpse of Past Glories

Mitsubishi's past strengths are worth acknowledging. The brand produced some truly iconic vehicles, including the Lancer Evolution rally car, the Eclipse sports coupe, and the 3000GT/GTO sports car. These models were renowned for their performance, handling, and technological advancements. Mitsubishi also has a history of producing capable off-road vehicles, such as the Montero/Pajero. Furthermore, Mitsubishi often offered its vehicles at competitive prices, making them accessible to a wide range of buyers. Some of their older models were considered very reliable.

The Downside of Mitsubishi: Where it Falls Short Today

Mitsubishi's current lineup is a far cry from its past glory. Many models suffer from outdated designs, subpar interior quality, and uncompetitive powertrains. The brand's focus on budget-friendly vehicles has often come at the expense of refinement and driving dynamics. Reliability, while generally decent, is not as strong as some competitors. Mitsubishi's dealer network is relatively small, and resale values tend to be lower than average.

Mitsubishi's Model Lineup: A Limited Selection

Mitsubishi's current offerings in the North American market are limited. The Outlander and Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) are the brand's flagship models, offering three rows of seating in a mid-size SUV package. The Outlander Sport is a compact SUV, while the Eclipse Cross (reviving a past nameplate) is a compact crossover with somewhat controversial styling. The Mirage is a subcompact hatchback/sedan known for its low price but also its lackluster performance and refinement.

Mitsubishi's Past Icons: Remembering the Glory Days

It's important to remember Mitsubishi's contributions to the automotive world. The Lancer Evolution, a series of high-performance sedans based on the humble Lancer, was a rally legend and a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The Eclipse, particularly in its early generations, was a popular and stylish sports coupe. The 3000GT/GTO (sold as a Dodge Stealth in the US) was a technologically advanced sports car that showcased Mitsubishi's engineering prowess. The Montero was known for its rugged off-road capability and durability.

Buying a Used Mitsubishi: Things to Consider

The used Mitsubishi market offers a mix of opportunities and risks. Older, well-maintained models from Mitsubishi's more performance-oriented days can be appealing to enthusiasts on a budget. However, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial. Research the specific model and year for any known reliability issues. Service records are essential to verify proper maintenance. Be aware that parts for older or less common models may be harder to find.

The Mitsubishi Dealership Experience

Mitsubishi dealerships are not as widespread as those of some larger brands. The dealership experience can vary, but you can generally expect a mainstream sales approach. Negotiating discounts is often possible, especially on slower-selling models.

Clutsh's Take on Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi's current lineup is a shadow of its former self, lacking the excitement and innovation that defined the brand in its heyday. While the Outlander PHEV offers a unique option in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, and their vehicles are generally affordably priced, the rest of the lineup struggles to compete in terms of design, performance, and overall refinement. Mitsubishi's past successes, particularly with models like the Lancer Evolution and Eclipse, serve as a reminder of the brand's potential, but it remains to be seen if they can recapture that magic. For now, Mitsubishi is primarily an option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize affordability over driving excitement or cutting-edge technology.

Mitsubishi's Closest Competitors

Mitsubishi's current lineup primarily competes with mainstream brands like Nissan, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia. In the past, its performance models faced off against vehicles from Subaru, Mazda, and various European automakers.