Used 2002 Mitsubishi Diamante Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Great car
This car was purchased in 2003, It now has 140,000 miles on it. After about 130,000k, it started to burn a little oil at high rpms, guess this is kinda my fault for always driving like a maniac and always in a hurry.. Anyways, now, if i keep it at low rpms the engine is fine, I haven't had any problems with the transmission, heater and a/c works great.. Has been in two wrecks and this car holds up really well, regular maintenance and good driving habits this car will last a LONG time.. I mean, nothing is broken, it all works fine, and is what, 8 years old with 140k miles on it, great buy!
100,000 Miles 2002 Diamante LS
I have owned my LS for just over 4 years now and have just under 100,000 miles on it having purchased it used with 17k miles. I test drove a variety of vehicles at the time within my price range and options requirements. Nothing else came close to the value of this car. Pblms at 100k miles: 1. One door speaker needs to be replaced 2. Antenna no longer retracts. 3. Roof Liner in back has started to droop Minor issues, but lead to a problem; replacement parts are hard to come by due to the rarity of the car. Mechanically its been a rock. Zero Dollars past scheduled maintenance so far. I am still in love with this car 4 years later.
Excellent Value
I love this car. I read all the reviews before I bought this car, and the power train was highly rated. This car is quiet, comfortable, powerful and reliable. I have the LS with the heated, 8-way power seats w/power lumbar and love it. This car was virtually unchanged from 98 until last year, 2004. The engine is smooth, and responsive and I get much better mileage than edmunds says. I measured 30 mpg highway in SoCal. Transmission failed at 75k (apparently common). Had it fixed by the pros at SoCal Transmission in San Diego and not a lick of trouble since. Heater core is recurrent problem w/these cars. These sell for much less than comp. Acura CL or 3.2 TL.
Diamante
The Mitsubishi Diamante Vr-X is a fun fast ride but since I purchased it I have had to put a lot of money into it... the heater core went around 75k, and it's conveniently place on the firewall so the job itself is a nightmare, I haven't met a Diamante driver past 80k who didn't have to do the same, now I'm having trouble with the 02 sensors, I replaced 3 last year and this year the fourth went. I'd say the car would be worth it if it didn't cost so much to maintain. About 1500$ for the heater core repair and about the same for the o2 sensor work.
Watch Out for the Heater Core!
I LOVE this car. It has great style and great reliability - except for the infamous heater core that Mitsubishi refuses to recall. Make sure there is no syrup smell to the Diamante you are looking to purchase.
i love it
First I felt love by the look, but soon I've realized its performance. I wish we could buy this car in Europe. One of the best looking car I have ever seen. More luxurious than the price tag would tell you.
Best sedan in the world!!!!
Best Sedan in the world!!!
Vroom with a VRX
This car has been a dream. Lots of power when you need it and a nice sporty feel and sound. Speaking of sound the audio/radio is a great system. There has been no mechanical issues other than oil, brakes and tires. The tires on mine have only about 2,000 miles on them and they are top quality. I had automatic start installed which is nice in bad weather. We no longer need another vehicle so I'm parting with it.
Fantastic Automobile!
I went to the dealer to check out the Eclipse Convertible and was bowled over by the VR-X...all the comfort and quiet of the LS with a little more hp, sport suspension and exhaust. I've never been this comfortable or had this much fun in a car. While there is a 300M or Acura on every corner, you won't see many of these. Super Car!!
excllent car for the money
the mitsubishi diamante vr-x is fun to drive. it has great acceleration and it handles well. great interior and the stereo is good quality. very smooth on the road.
Messed Up Good.
Somebody at Mitsubishi messed up. They made a really great car with lots of bang for the buck. My wifes boss is upset. He bought a Lexus. We test drove it at 5 dealers and pick ours up tonight. Love the VR-X package. Everyone looks twice and says what is that? Then they get in and say wow. Its the secret luxury car, for less than an arm and leg, and it does not look like every car on the Road. We had a tough time finding out baby, but that just means everyone else can drool in jelosy.
Buy One!
I purchased a new leftover '02 and paid 21K for it. I have had no problems and get 22 mpg in combination driving. I love the car and it looks better than any Acura/Lexus/Infinity. After all the Acura TL is just a Honda Accord, the Infinity I30 is just a Nissan Maxima and the Lexus ES300 is nothing more than a Toyota Camry. Why pay big money for a slightly fancier version of their run of the mill vehicles. The styling and the smooth ride of the Diamante, plus the fact that everybody and his brother doesn't own one, made the decision to buy easy for me.
Started out ok
In its early years this car was a good car, some maintenance as expected I guess (but pretty pricy for this imported car). But as others have said, once things started going, they went fast. Had to replace alternator, muffler, tires (worn on inside) and I don't know what else in a pretty short amount of time, and now it sometimes won't even start. I've asked around and no one knows why, we replaced the magnet at the end of the crankshaft, because it had actually blinked out and died on me while driving, but seemed to be only a temporary solution.
Still going strong Diamanté
The only issue I have had was the heater core went out on me early in the cars lifetime. Repair cost was too high due to labor. Just did a “by pass” to avoid interior leak. Other than that it has been a great car.
- Technology
- Performance
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Looks Great!
Overall I love this car. Like many others though. I too had the transmission problems. Even after the fix. Still not right! The car is so great to look at. Kind of a Beemer front and a Volvo back. But very unique. Drives like a much bigger car with its smooth ride. I am a chauffeur and when I get out of my town car I don't mind jumping into this car!
Big Mistake
Worst mistake I made, uncomfortable ride, too much road noise, just generally unhappy with the car. Didn't want to be upside down on a trade, so I kept it. Lots of little annoying problems, that I was not used to dealing with in other cars purchase. Due to road noise would rent a car if going over 100 miles. Just bought 2010 Acura. I'll never go back.
Love the Diamante
I love it. Took it to Los Angeles (from Portland, Oregon) just after I bought it, and the fuel economy was devine at 30 mpg. Rather good for a 3.5 V6 engine, in such a large car. The car rides very smooth, absorbing the bumbs in the road well. Handling is on par, and the car is very comfortable overall. Sure you can get an Acura, or Lexus for around the same price, but the cool thing about the Diamante is that you don't see them on every corner. I like having a car that is fairly rare.
Awesome Car
I can't imagine a better car for the price and financing. I've been a Honda driver for 15 years, and will not go back. Mitsu needs to up their advertising to get the market share it deserves. Best selling car in Japan, and we know they know the best deal. Great car.
The best Limo in the US
Although I get strange looks in the Limo lot at O'Hare Airport this car is proving to be a great alternative limousine to the generic Lincoln. Not only is it a great drive but,as my customers keep telling me, it is a great ride. I bought the ES and had the dealer installed leather option. Fit is great but one of the door trims is not up to scratch. However it has been a no quibble replacement. 100% reliable and drives exactly the same whether empty or fully loaded which suggests that it was engineered with integrity. Every day a passenger leaves my Diamante with the intention of putting it on their new car shopping list. I wish I was on commission!
TO SMALL AND TO MUCH $$$
For A big person look elseware no room for your leg and small seat. Fun to drive quick and nice leather seats.
Best Car Yet For Me!!!
Certainly a lot of car for the buck! You can pay a lot more and get a lot LESS in a luxury car ie Lexus, Acura!
Close, but no cigar
First read the reviews of the vehicle and was a wary buyer. The reviews did not mention the "wander" on flat, open highways, but have found little of the review material to be correct. Overall, good car for the money but the gas mileage could be improved and the "wander" needs eliminated. Also, at 5'11", the drivers seat has to be all the way back and the rear of the seat in a reclined position to be comfortable.
Awesome ride!
Since I have bought this car I have loved every minute of it. It is more fun to drive then my friends Lexus and has much more power. It has a great vaule to me for my budget and gets many looks going down the road. Its one classy car.
VRX Baby
Great Car, Quick response in all aspects of driving, very fun to drive. However I am a little concerned about the resale value.
personal
the car is the best buy out there right now. it is comfortable, and very affordable.
VRX- fun to drive
Fun to drive and new dash is eye catching. Sleek new lines but gas mileage could be better. Less than what was advertised.
Japanese BMW!!
I am very happy with my 2002 Diamante LS! I consider this automobile to be a real bargain!! The car looks good, rides well and is quality made! A good combo Japanese design and Austrailian built! I plan to keep the car so resale is not an issue and it is a keeper! I have every option I could want in a car! Japanese BMW? You better believe it!
Not A Problem At All
I had Purchased This Auto Against My Better Judgement, After Reading Reviews At Many Websites All Against The Transmission Function And Ergonomic Flaws. Well It Has Been 5 Months And It Is One Of The Best Decisions I Have Ever Made On A Car That Has Awesome Styling And Great Pickup On The Highway 6000mi On The Odometer And Counting Bottom Line Go With Your Impulses!
My Opinion Hasn't Changed! VRX Rocks
Bought my VR-X in 2002 and now have over 50K on it (I'm a frequent commuter between Charleston, SC and Atlanta -- if you don't blink you'll see me) and this is a great car! My only complaint is the terrible Goodyear Tires that I'm getting ready to replace. Sorry to say that I see one on the road every now and then, so it's not quite as unique as it used to be, but that's good news for some.
Cool Sedan
This car is fun to drive and has extremely quick pickup. The nice quite engine is a gem.
Just OK but the transmission stinks
The styling is not bad. It has a descent amount of amenities for the price. The big seller for me was the 6 year 0% interest financing. That equals an unbeatable value. It has a roomy passenger compartment and plenty of leg room in the back seat. The memory seat function is flawed. It erases itself regularly. Alao, it has no home link for garage remote. The heated mirrors are poor. The worst feature must be the transmission. I have had in in the shop several times for the transmission. It has shift "flairs". It feels like it slips. I have had the clutches replaced, the valve body and ports replaced but the problem persists. Not 100% of the time but maybe 40-50%. It is very annoying and for this reason alone, I cannot wait to sell it.
I'd rather drive this than a Camry...
Bought an '02 Diamante ES new for a couple reasons... I owned a '97 Diamante - a good comfortable ride. I also like that I don't see myself coming and going - it's sort of a poor man's exclusive ride. I like the power, but fun-to-drive quotient is not high - it wanders like a puppy, and has a bit too much body lean. Even so, it is competent and well behaved (at least in normal driving). The real reason I bought it was price, and unbeatable financing. It also came with a 100K mile warranty, and auto alarm... Summary - not bad if your thing is to get "there" in relative comfort and style.
Luxo At Half The Price!!
ok, I bought this car USED (2002, With 20k Miles Still Under factory Wrty, For 14k) So I Personally like RESALE VALUES to Go down (Its a 30k Car) I Buy all cars 1 yr old or 2 yr's, for Half the Price. - if your a smart CONSUMER, do not buy this car NEW!! You will lose around 15k The First Year....
Could be a great car!
The Diamante is a good car and could be a great car. A lot of noises from the rear suspension, old fashioned door design (no door frame) makes wind noise, low seating position, and most of all TERRIBLE RESALE VALUE!! This was a $28,000 plus car, barely worth half of the MSRP. Compare resale value to that of a Toyota Avalon or Nissan Maxima. Don't buy this car unless you want to keep it until the whels fall off. Mitubishi needs to either fix this car and eliminate on its poor image or PULL THE PLUG ! ! Barrcuda
Value
I purchased this fine pre-owned automobile in 11/03 w/ 32000 miles for around $14k. Half it's new retail price. I have not had one single problem (other than brake job). Only pure enjoyment of this luxury/sport sedan. Everything that made me want this car to begin with still has me smiling today. My previous car was a Lexus LS 400 and I sold it due to high mileage and scary repair probablities. I had to find something that compared to its ride quality and luxury and performance for a reasonable price and this Mitsubishi fits the bill perfectly!
Totally underestimated
I bought my first Dimante in 1993. I did not realize how wonderful of a car it was until I have gone through a 96 Jag XJ6 and 98 Cadillac Seville. Ultimately, it was the best car I have ever owned. Therefore, I am back at the helm of 2002. For the money, you can't beat the equipment. The style, handling and standard features match those of much more expensive cars. In the state of the economy, I am definately for getting the most for my money. I would recommend a test drive.
An Honest Review of the Diamante
I bought my 2002 Mitsubishi Diamante new in 8/02, just over 3 years ago. It has very quick pickup and the heated leather seats are nice when it's freezing. The traction control is great. The car responds quickly. Its gas mileage isn't wonderful, but it's OK. The trunk is very spacious, but I would like to see a trunk cargo net as standard equipment. The only repairs that I have needed to make have been a lousy battery, and engine light stayed on unnecessarily, also some minor repairs. The warranty is lousy! It should be 50,000 or 5 years. I only have 34,000 miles on my car and the warranty is gone! Overall this is a very nice luxurious car but, it is priced too high.
2D One
This is my second one,this is for the wife,Blk/Blk V-RX great handling w/sport look and power to boot....
Great car for the money
Engine, Transmission very smooth. Rides very nice and quiet. Handles well. Comfortable car all around on long trips. Like the sterio and moonroof. Should have brighter dash lighting.
great so far
only one month old so far, so good
Owner
This car is an excellent value. Too bad they quit making it. It has been extremely reliable. I have spend virtually nothing on maintenance after 60 months. The USA could learn something from this car designed in Japan and built by the our Australian friends. QMI used with this vehicle since new. At speeds of 70-75 mph I have been averaging 27 mpg.
A car with cachet!
It's been one month now and I'm more pleased than with any other new car purchase I've had. This car gets the looks - I've even been approached at a gas station and asked abou it. Sure, it doesn't have the horsepower of the top Maxima or Accord but the spunky torque takes you from nothing to something quickly enough. If you're undecided, here's a test - count the number of Camrys, Maximas, Accords, and Altimas you see in a day. Then count how many Diamante VR-Xs you see. That's the cachet you can't put a price on.
Mourning my loss
I purchased a 2002 LS on Ebay on 11-17- 03 and got a heck of a deal, still under warranty. Totaled the car in 02- 04. Did not own the car long enough to give a good evaluation of it. Tremendous praise for the car in the crash. I put the nose of the car into a '97 Ford Mustang's door who failed to yield right of way ( ran a stop sign ) at 60 MPH and punted the Mustang some 150 Ft like a football. From the "A" pillars back there was "NO" damage. The only damage inside the cabin was the airbags deployed. The car held together well for such a violent impact!
Fun ... and a looker too!
I've been asked about this car at a gas station by strangers. The VR-X appearance package is outstanding! It handles like it's on rails. I give it the highest score for it's uniqueness - cache, if you will. How many VR-Xs do you see on the street? About 1 for every 1000 Maximas, Altimas, and other similar vehicles. I love it! Mustang owners look twice... (what is it?! and can I take it?!)
Awesome Diamante
These suckers are hard to find, but they're a great entry luxury vehicle. Not the name cache as Lexus or Acura, but good handling and price/value ratio
Traded the Jag
Love this car. Just traded a 1999 JagXJ8 for a new Diamante. The ride in this car is quieter, I swear! For the price, this is the best mid-range luxury car I've owned. Smooth ride. Ultra-quiet and fun to drive. Beautiful look too.
great car for the money.
i feel this car rides like an expensive car. It is fun to drive and its very comfortable, the stereo is great and its a real head turner.
jb's diamante
good mpg, averaging 25 highway burning reg. gas w/o any negative results. emerengy brake handle is a very poor placement. on extended trips with cruise control the handle placement is always in the way of my right leg placement. repositioning it inward just an inch or so would correct problem. i am learning that re-sale value is poor. msrp was $29700 and wholesale value (acv) one year later is about $17000. most people who see and ride in this car like it but i am not sure i would purchase another diamante.
Great Car!!!
Excellent car for the price. Handles well in snow and all has all the goodies for the price.
2002 Diamante LS
The 2002 Diamante has alot of head and leg room. It is the best car I have ever purchased. The comfort level is the best. The ride is smooth and quite. I feel the Diamante is a very reliable ride and the features it comes with are unbelievable.