2004 Mitsubishi Diamante: Road Test

Archived Review

2004 Mitsubishi Diamante 

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  • MSRP: $24,999 -$27,619
  • Invoice: $23,485 -$25,947

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Our road test for the 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante help you decide if a 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

LS Class Average
6 6.4

Test LS did 0-60 mph in a decent 8.1 sec. Traction control checks unwanted wheel spin in fast takeoffs, but should be available on all models. We haven't yet tested a VR-X.

FUEL ECONOMY

LS Class Average
5 4.6

Test LS averaged 19.7 mpg with lots of highway driving. Expect closer to 17 as an overall average. Mitsubishi recommends premium fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

LS Class Average
7 7

ES and LS absorb most bumps easily, but soft suspension tuning allows mild float over fast humpbacks.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

LS Class Average
5 6.8

ES and LS show more cornering lean than desirable, but are competent and predictable, though less nimble than such rivals as Acura TL.

QUIETNESS

LS Class Average
6 6.7

Though not the smoothest around, Diamante's V6 is pretty relaxed, hardly vibratory. Low wind, road noise, but some tire thrum audible on pebbled pavement.

CONTROLS

LS Class Average
6 6.7

Conventional if busy design and layout. Stereo buttons too small. Interior materials mostly upscale, but don't distinguish Diamante in the class.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

LS Class Average
6 7.2

Good but not grand. Standard sunroof leaves marginal 6-footer head room. Good basic driving stance with sufficient adjustments. Visibility marred by mild over-the-shoulder blind spot.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

LS Class Average
5 5.6

Too narrow for three adults to be comfortable, and leg room can be tight with front seats pushed very far back.

CARGO ROOM

LS Class Average
3 4

Trunk roomy, easy to load, but not among largest in class, and lid hinges cut into available space.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

LS Class Average
2 5.8

Diamante is attractively priced and competent enough. But lack of expected class features such as side airbags and a 5-speed automatic transmission betrays an aging basic design. A host of rivals, especially the value-packed Acura TL, are better choices and enjoy much stronger resale values.

Total Score

LS Class Average
51 60.8

Total Score: 51

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score
48
Average Score
60
High Score
71

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