3 Used Mitsubishi Models to Think About Carefully Before Buying
With the state of new car prices, buying a reliable used car makes economic sense. Mitsibushi is an often overlooked, inexpensive brand with a decent reputation for reliability. Still, here are three late-model Mitsubishi vehicles to consider carefully before buying due to poor reviews.
Carefully consider these three used Mitsubishi models
In its list of “12 Used Cars to Avoid,” U.S. News included three late-model used models from Mitsubishi. The three used Mitsubishi models on the list include the following:
- 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
- 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage
Let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage
Counting the strengths of the 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage makes for a relatively short list. The list includes advantages like excellent fuel economy and low prices. However, the downsides to buying a Mirage include:
- Anemic powertrain
- Noisy cabin
- Low-quality interior components
Could its cheapness negate the strength of its low price?
The 2021 Mirage is a front-wheel drive five-seater hatchback that gets up to 43 mpg on the highway and 36 mpg around town. There is a manual shift version, but the automatic shift CVT-equipped model is more fuel-efficient and costs under $15,000. Regardless of transmission, a used 2021 Mirage derives 78 hp and 74 lb-ft of torque from a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine.
2. 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
U.S. News listed a few items favoring the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, such as its standard features, user-friendly infotainment system, and spacious seating. However, the list of negatives is much longer, with items such as:
- Limited cargo space
- Below-average predicted reliability
- Rough ride quality
- Subpar handling
- Low-value top trim models compared to competitors
Although the used 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross features a 152-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 184 lb-ft of torque, U.S. News calls its acceleration “leisurely” and “noisy.” Like the Mirage, the Eclipse Cross seats five but adds a four-wheel drive option and gets 25-26 mpg in the city and 26-29 mpg on the highway.
3. 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander
Edmunds lists an excellent warranty and included standard equipment as pros for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander. However, like the other two Mitsubishi models on the list, the cons outnumber the pros, including:
- Rough ride
- Cheap-looking interior
- Sluggish response
- Noisy drivetrain
The four-wheel drive 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV features a 126-hp plug-in electric hybrid powertrain with 148 lb-ft of torque. The gas/electric setup utilizes a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine and automatic CVT drivetrain rated at 74 MPGe in electric mode and 26 mpg as a hybrid.
Why does U.S. News recommend avoiding these three used Mitsubishi models?
Ultimately, U.S. News recommends avoiding the three used Mitsubishi models listed because of their shared shortcomings.
First, the Mitsubishi models listed here contain cheap-looking and feeling interior materials. Although inexpensive materials adorn many lower-cost vehicles, Mitsubishi dug deeper than its competitors to save a buck.
Second, the three Mitsubishi models provide a smooth ride over good pavement. However, rough roadways upset suspensions and jostle occupants.
Finally, as expected, the Mirage’s 78-hp three-cylinder provides little acceleration. However, with its 152-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, the Eclipse Cross is only marginally better. Worse than the lackluster acceleration, the engine noise transmitted into the cabin makes it more uncomfortable than the rugged ride or cheap construction.
