2004 Mitsubishi Outlander: Road Test
Archived Review
2004 Mitsubishi Outlander ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $18,449 -$22,349
- Invoice: $17,332 -$20,993
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Mitsubishi Outlander
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander help you decide if a 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4.2 |
Outlander feels a tad peppier for '04, but still isn't that swift for merging or passing, and long grades can be a struggle, especially with a sizable load. Heavier AWD version slightly lazier. Transmission smooth, responsive. Trailer-towing capacity is 1500 lb, typical of compact 4-cyl SUVs.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.7 |
Test 2WD averaged 22.5 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. Test '03 AWD averaged 22.3. Mitsubishi recommends regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
Not quite carlike, but Outlander rivals Subaru Forester for the most stable, comfortable ride in this class.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.3 |
Corners with modest body lean, no tippy feel, but elevated ride height contributes to unwanted lateral rocking in quick direction changes. Steering accurate, but slightly numb and overassisted. AWD seems to enhance overall grip and control, even on dry surfaces. Stopping power adequate, brake modulation good. ABS should be a linewide option.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.8 |
Wind rush noticed but not objectionable at highway speeds. Tire noise unobtrusive except on coarse pavement, though, typical of small wagons, general road rumble nearly always present from cargo area. Engine raucous at full throttle.
CONTROLS
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Simple layout, easy-to-reach controls, though radio switches should be larger. Hooded gauges easy to read, even in sunlight. Overall solidity doesn't impress, but interior materials are appropriate for the price.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Comfortable seats, good side bolstering. Tall drivers might want more rearward seat travel. Easy entry/exit and good visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
Generous head room, but leg and foot space sufficient only if front seats are no more than halfway back. Firm, tall split bench seat has reclining backrests.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Enough for a half dozen or so grocery bags with rear seatbacks in place. Slightly below class average with seatbacks folded--and they don't lie flat. Low liftover, but liftgate opening narrows at the bottom. Optional cargo cover stows neatly under floor. Lots of interior storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5.6 |
Outlander is one of the more carlike compact SUVs, but is unexceptional otherwise. Its engine feels coarse and is underpowered in anything but routine driving. And Mitsubishi's reputation for quality and resale value trails that of most other import brands.
Total Score
| 2WD LS | AWD LS | 2WD XLS | AWD XLS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49 | 49 | 49 | 49 | 48.6 |
Total Score: 49
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
