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Used 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
39 reviews

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Pros
Cons
4.88 out of 5 stars

Reliable so far.

lucymo, 06/28/2012
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
17 of 17 people found this review helpful

LS model, FWD, automatic. I purchased this car when it was 2 years old and had 26K miles on it. Now it's 7 years old and has 82K miles. I have had only one problem - with the steering column - that was taken care of through 5y/60k miles warranty. I do regular maintenance according to the manual. While the LS model has a very spartan interior, it handles well. I replaced its very standard radio/CD player with an all-in-one player. It's perfect for a small family of 2-3 people or a couple with dogs. Not enough pwr with 4 adults. Mine has gas mileage of 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg hwy. I am very happy with it and will drive it to its end, hopefully many years and many miles away.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great SUV

Delma, 05/21/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
20 of 21 people found this review helpful

This little SUV is just right for me. It's got everything I need. It's nice and roomy in the front and rear. Bottom line, I love my Outlander.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Would buy it again

mikec, 08/22/2007
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful

With almost 40000 miles on the SUV we have had zero repairs or work done on the vehicle. For a 4 cylinder engine, performace is great. Quick acceleration even with the AC on, 5 people and a load of cargo.

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2.75 out of 5 stars

It's not a "quality" japanese SUV.

paintrboy, 05/27/2012
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
20 of 23 people found this review helpful

We bought our Outlander 1 and half years ago from the dealer. Only 59K with lots of warranty left. Worked like well for the first 4 months then, $800 of front end work. New ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar bushings etc. Then the gas tank started leaking another $1000. Then the transmission drive shaft seals began leaking (should have been covered under warranty) $300. New clutch kit, $800, new rear caliper $618 (yes, 1 ). Still needs new windshield, 4 struts, all new bushings again, doesn't start well after fuelling up and recently the power steering rack began leaking. It currently has 91K and we still owe $7000 on it. Dealer we purchased from said they'd buyback for $2200 firm.

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3 out of 5 stars

10 years later

Christina, 12/10/2015
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
40 of 48 people found this review helpful

I bought this car brand new off the lot in 2005. Within the first couple of years I had to have it repainted twice because it was already rusting. I had the bushings, control arms, tierods, and brakes replaced pretty much every year I've owned this thing, since the first year I bought it. I don't mistreat my car or drive it rough because I'm too paranoid something will go wrong with it. At 7 years the motor blew and the dealership refused to honor the warranty, despite it having 93,000 miles on it (well under warranty). The transmission was bad after the first year. The radiator had to be replaced after 8 years, even though it leaked since the first year I got it. The dealership wouldn't cover anything with my 10 year/100,000 mile warranty except the bushings. My window motor died after 9 years. The rear window windshield wiper died after 3 years. I feel I'm replacing the lights every 6 months, and at $35 a light, it adds up real quick. I've pretty much replaced every single thing on this car since the year I bought it, without any help from the dealership or warranty. Now it's paid off, you better believe I'm going to drive the hell out of it for another 10 years because I've rebuilt the whole thing. I paid $27,000 for this car, and I refuse to let it go out of sheer stubbornness, and not wanting to have to buy another car. BUT, I sure as heck will NEVER buy another one again. Wasn't ever worth the money. And I didn't even get the nice packaged one, it's just plain jane boring. I wouldn't recommend this car to anyone. It's hard to find parts for it, and everything costs a ridiculous amount.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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3.25 out of 5 stars

need a grill

xiang, 02/23/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

notice the lower front bumper has a large open space in the center, where u can directly reach to the cooling system. A tiny rock went through hit the cooling tank. replacment costs $1000.............other than that the car is ok

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Amazing!

Tabby, 07/15/2010
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

I just bought this car used a week ago. I love it, it handles just the way I like, like the Lancer platform it was built on. Hugs the curves just the way I like. Holds the road with almost NO body lean. It's incredibly fun to drive. My first SUV, and I'm in love with it. Lots of room and plenty of cargo cubbyholes. Plenty of room for my big dog to ride in the back. I have the Sun & Sound package and I love my Infinity sound system. Great gas mileage for an SUV.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Outlandish

camusgirl, 11/12/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander Limited Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

This is my second Outlander in three years after an AWFUL lease experience with Toyota where I will NEVER purchase another vehicle! Mitsubishi is right across the street and is wonderful to deal with, both in sales and service. The Outlander does everything I need it to do and more! Its gas mileage is above average (between 25 - 28 mpg) and its comfort is excellent with the lumbar package in the front leather seat. The Sunroof and sounds make the ride a joy and it is not HIGH off the ground so even in evening wear with high heels I can slide into the seat comfortably. I cannot wait to purchase a 2007 with a V6!

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Review of 2005 Outlander

Julie, 04/12/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I am currently a little unhappy with the vehicle and the service. I am having an issue with an odor when the air conditioning is on. The dealer said it is condensation that is becoming moldy. They did not offer much help except to change the cabin filter, for a fee. It seems like this is a warranty issue. I haven't had the vehicle for a year, why would the air conditioning be leaking and getting moldy? The odor is bad, especially on rainy days. I wish I knew if others had this problem. I am a little frustrated, it's gross! That's my big complaint.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Buy One

geminite, 10/23/2004
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

One early problem that was instantly rectified by the dealer. Problem with power steering. Otherwise, great car, roomy, perfect for taking the kids and animals on trips to the mountains.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

75k death

joelor, 07/07/2010
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
15 of 20 people found this review helpful

At 75k entire rear suspension needs to be replaced. Car was cared for very well. Was told by dealer that I should have had a 4 wheel alignment every yr! Good bye mitsu

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Better than expected

Chuck, 02/19/2008
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

After "trying on" several small SUVs, I decided this one has the best seat comfort which was my main criterion. I was pleasantly surprised with the mpg and ergonomics of the unit as well. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone looking for a small SUV with AWD.

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5 out of 5 stars

Good Purchase!

Kaelyn, 09/06/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This smaller SUV handles like a car, which is what I was looking for. So far, it's been a smooth ride, not as bumpy as I would've expected. I really love the cargo space & riding much higher than I'm used to in a conventional auto. I've only had the car a couple of weeks, but have almost 1,000 miles on it as it's been fun driving it everywhere. It's a purchase that has put a smile on my face!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Better than expected

Eric, 05/29/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

The Outlander has car-like handling with no bad manners. This vehicle is easy to drive, park and has good visability. I am very impressed with the quiet ride on the highway. There is no wind noise and the seats are comfortable. Its ride is stiff but very very solid. Its controls are simple. The 2.4L engine offers adequate power and is smooth. The transmission is also well matched to the engine and shifts smoothly, sport mode is great in town and with the cruise on it prevents downshifts. The stock 4 speaker stereo is average. The rear seats recline and that helps when installing a car seat. All Wheel Drive has no computer management like a Subaru but still helps in the snow. My truck has not had one problem in 25,000 miles.

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4 out of 5 stars

14 years and still going

N. Lopez P.R., 05/29/2019
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I bought my Outlander 2005 brand new and it has served me great! Currently at 132,000 + miles I've only had to do the usual wear and tear maintenance. I did however change the water pump about 8 months ago. The roads where I live are brutal and cars take a beating. Thankfully my Outlander has held up well and is going strong. The cargo is spacious and there is good leg room on the back seat.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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3.63 out of 5 stars

2004 Outlander (bought in 2003)

redbrnch, 05/21/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have always driven large SUVs and trucks and just love this car. It takes daily off-road abuse to get to and from our home. Great buy, just beware of financing scams that can come with it.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Mitsu Review

jpatulak, 06/08/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander Limited AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Except for the gas mileage - way below advertised figures - this has been a great car. The AWD is best feature - the vehicle is excellent in snow and ice - teamed with the standard Yokohama Geolander tires the vehicle has super traction in adverse weather. The interior is well designed for driver comfort & ease. The only amenities it is lacking are heated outside mirrors and cross bars on the roof . The dealer service, so far, has been excellent.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

One Fun SUV

Mitsu fan, 09/26/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought this truck when my cute old Mitsubishi Mirage coupe got totalled in an accident in 2005. I was a Mitsubishi fan due to the fact that I never had a single issue with my 1997 Mirage for eight years, and this vehicle has reinforced my liking of Mitsubishi. My wife drives a Honda-CRV, and the Outlander definitely feels roomier in comparison when I drive (I am 6 feet tall). Add to that the 5 year/60000 mile warranty and an unbelievable price when I bought it (about $6,000 below sticker) and I was sold immediately.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love this Car

Mary, 12/06/2007
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I love this car. I shopped around for a good used vehicle. I bought the Mitsubishi Outlander sight unseen. It came with a great warranty. I am really enjoying sitting higher in the vehicle than in a sedan. It has plenty of power for me. I also like the height to get in an out. It is just right for me. I don't have to use a sideboard. It gets better gas mileage than I expected. It hugs the road while driving and has great braking. It has a somewhat plain interior, but it is fine for me. The sound system is great also. It does everything I need.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Back seats kill me

Teresa, 12/05/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

We take lots of long road trips. The Mitsubishi Outlander is great on gas. I love driving it, but I absolutely hate riding in the back seat.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Diana

Diana Harms, 01/23/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander Limited AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

I like this SUV would like a little better mileage . I think service is excellent and the suv is great on long trips

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4 out of 5 stars

Good SUV

R C, 09/06/2010
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander Limited Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

When I saw this SUV, I knew this was the one. It was different than all the other SUVs I had looked at! The interior looked like a German Interior and not Japanese. I really like our Mitsubishi Outlander, it has been a very reliable SUV. Performance is ok for normal drivers, but if your like me, there's not enough horsepower! My wife loves her SUV. It has been such a good vehicle, that I'm going to buy a new Mitsubishi Lancer GTS for my daughter. Good luck!

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5 out of 5 stars

Mitsubishi Outlander

MADJIMMY, 04/14/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Finally found a small SUV that doesn't need the V6 to climb a paved hill! This little gem is a powerhouse that is a blast to drive, looks great and is very nicely engineered. Love the Sportronic automatic transmission, a flick of the wrist, and you down and up shift manually. The engine is a marvel, plenty of power in the 160+ horses packed into the 4 cylinders, power to spare and power to play with. Roomy, comfy, and did I mention it is a great deal of fun?

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Truck

Ali, 06/23/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I picked my Mitsubishi Outlander when I compared it to its competitiors. It's amazing. I have droven 2004 Ford Escape but found this one to be a better value.

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5 out of 5 stars

My Experience - 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander

miss a's, 06/25/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I love my Outlander. It's a 5 speed and its easy to handle. I will stay in the Mitsubishi family as long as I'm buying cars or trucks.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Serious Competition for Honda and Toyota

Marcus, 08/16/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I reviewed and tested the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Jeep Liberty and Mazda Tribute. All of which had their pros and cons, but the Outlander seemed to be more of a compromise of all the pros. My first choice would have been the Honda CR-V because I am a Honda loyalist comming from a Honda family. I might have even paid more for it. However, since none of the 6 dealerships in my area treated me like I was a loyal customer I actually entertained other competitor's products. I have to admit that I didn't know what I was missing. There are better options to an over priced Honda. Their reputation preceeds themselves and they take advantage of it. Don't be sheep like I was.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Value for Money!

jaybruinboy, 12/08/2004
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I purchased a 2005 Outlander LS 2WD a couple of weeks ago, silver, with the Convenience Package. I've driven it over 350 miles around Los Angeles, and so far I have mostly very good impressions of it. First, the looks-- nice lines, definitely not cookie cutter, and somewhat broad shouldered for a small SUV. People do ask what it is and take a closer look. Also, it does not have a spare tire hanging on the tailgate (which could bring you great grief if you get rear-ended). It will definitely not be lost in a sea of look-alikes at the parking lot. The iInterior looks great -- it should have a sign that says "designed by Kenneth Cole." Driving impressions--more than enough power, quiet at cruise. Nice!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

more power = more fun

bill, 03/24/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander Limited AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

If this vehicle were equipped with a V6 it would be the perfect rig for me.Could also use a slightly heavier suspension.Tires seemed to be a car- type variety rather than a truck tire. Would also like to see a manual transmission option.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great driving

xe2ac, 04/23/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

After doing a careful driving tests with competing brands (Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra). The best driving experience was with the Mitsubishi model I decided for this vehicle because I rarely drive on dirt roads and needed more cubic space than the Toyota. The CRV and Xterra are driven by a lot of women and the Outlander has a more muscular view. Problem on my city is the large amount of speed bumps and a lot of rugged asphalt which the suspension filters out very well.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great but I Didn't have a need for it

Hal, 05/08/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought my Mitsubishi Outlander in December 2004 and just now traded it in for a Scion Xb. I drive a lot and I can't justify 21-27 mpg for me. I don't have a family.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Outlander Review

Regggie, 07/19/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I was very fortuanate to get a vehicle that has a wood like interior. I added a muffler tip and a chrome license plate frame. Which really adds to beauty. The vehicle sits pretty low to the ground which allows it to ride like a car, but it is still an SUV. I would reccomend this vehicle to any other. It's a great vehicle because I can fit my bike in it and still have room for freinds.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great little SUV

Melanie, 08/02/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The Outlander is great for the person that wants a vehicle large enough to haul everyday things, but doesn't want the huge, gas-guzzling monsters that are out there today!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

2003 Outlander

Gina M., 08/21/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Great small SUV for the money. Dependable. If you don't mind a little bumpy ride, this is a very inexpensive SUV to own. I have owned it since their debut in 2003. Gets through the bad winters, high enough to see well. Not great for carry more than 4-5 adults. Small cargo area. I like the truck a lot.

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5 out of 5 stars

Surprisingly Good

RandyWakeman, 09/19/2005
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is an SUV that I didn't plan on buying, but after an ocean of test drives with other vehicles...I really tried to find a reason NOT to buy it, but I couldn't. I'm was pleasantly surprised at how peppy the 2.4L MIVEC engine is - it sure feels like more than a 4-cyl., and has a lot more zip than some 6-cyl. vehicles that I tested. It is extremely stable at high-speed; at 105 mph there is still some juice left (top end is about 120 mph). It has no problem keeping up with traffic when fully loaded. It's easy / fun to drive, comfotable, easy to park, and the cargo area becomes a cargo area by just dropping the seats - no headrests need to be removed. Just driving, no special attention nets me 22 mpg.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Excellent Vehicle

Dan, 01/30/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I looked at every single small SUV on the market in the $18,000 to $28,000 range. I purchased the Outlander XLS FWD, Phoenix Red and the more I drive it the more I really like it. It has more than enough power, especially when using the sportronic. I think the steering is quite good, the brakes are excellent and the fit and finish both inside are quite good. I would recommend it to anybody who needs a small space vehicle.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Outlander is Great

arjjm, 02/12/2006
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander is a great vehicle. It stands out in a crowd as no one around here thinks to buy one of these. We get LOTS of compliments on it. The XLS package is the only way to go and the dealer sold it to us for way below sticker.

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5 out of 5 stars

My first AWD

Tbone Steak, 04/15/2007
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is my first AWD with stick shift and it's perfect for all weather, especially in snow! Car runs good and smoothly. I had this for like 2 years now and it's reached 40,000 so far, and has no problem at all. I have referred many of my friends to buy this car. Great price with good quality.

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5 out of 5 stars

almost better than the Outback

Tennessee wheelman, 01/21/2019
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

with the manual transmission, despite having higher comoression ratio and some stock forged internals, NO cruise control option available due to Drive By Wire throttle system. Great fuel mileage and handling makes up for it, though..

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

17 years of loyalty!

Frances, 03/01/2022
2005 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

What can't I say about my girl. She's a five speed, so acceleration, just drop her down. Responds beautifully on the highway cutting in and out. Almost no blind spots. Fantastic mpl! Heavy duty weight load. I drove my Sons band and equipment around for years! Attractive and comfortable! Cons: Not made for Canada and its salty roads. Yet the recall, paid for most. Rusting around the rear flares. I don't care because she will see me out! Oh and I forgot, the oil pan might as well be made out of gold, because if it rusts out it will cost more money than your mechanic can possibly imagine. Trust me, I know! Other than that, she's the best investment I've ever made in vehicles I've owned. Lucky nine!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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