This midsize crossover SUV was introduced for the 2004 model year as an all-new, North American-market vehicle built in Normal, Illinois. It arrived as part of Mitsubishi’s early-2000s push to expand beyond traditional passenger cars and give the brand a family-oriented utility vehicle with a more car-like driving character than a body-on-frame truck SUV. From the start, it was positioned as a roomy, value-oriented crossover with standard V6 power and a focus on everyday comfort rather than off-road ruggedness.
The vehicle’s styling and concept were shaped by Mitsubishi’s sporty image and by the company’s SSU show vehicle, which helped establish the production model’s wide stance and athletic look. Over its life, it remained a single-generation nameplate, though it received incremental updates to trim content, equipment and exterior details. The early lineup emphasized front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive, while later years added more convenience and safety equipment as the segment became more competitive.
A facelifted version arrived late in the run, helping extend the model’s appeal through the end of production. It ultimately left the market after the 2011 model year, making it one of Mitsubishi’s more recognizable U.S.-market crossover efforts from the 2000s. Today it is remembered as an early attempt by the brand to blend sedan-like manners, generous standard equipment and everyday practicality in a midsize SUV package.