New or Significantly Altered Models
- 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante
- The Diamante receives a major overhaul for 1997. A new cabin-forward design and a longer body on the same chassis create an addition 7.4 cu-ft of interior volume. Diamante will be offered in two trim levels: ES and LS. Both versions are powered by a 210 hp, 3.5-litre, SOHC V-6 engine.
- 1997 Mitsubishi Mirage
- The sub-compact Mirage has been completely redesigned for 1997. The new model is larger in every dimension than the model it replaces. The 2-door and 4-door DE models receive a 1.5-litre 12-valve 4 cylinder engine, while the LS version of these same models receive a 1.8-litre 16-valve 4 cylinder engine.
- 1997 Mitsubishi Mirage sedan
- 1997 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
- The Montero sport is basically a Montero chassis with a smaller-sized body. Four variations are possible: the 2WD ES w/ 2.4-litre 4 cylinder engine, the 2WD LS w/ 3.0-litre V6, the 4WD LS, and the 4WD XLS. With the Montero's chassis and a lower price, this could be a vehicle to look for in this segment.
Updated Models
- 1997 Mitsubishi 3000GT
- A new base model joins the 3000GT SL and VR-4. A different front end treatment and a 161hp, 3.0-litre SOHC V-6 engine mark the differences. Styling of all models is updated with a new, more-prominent rear spoiler.
- 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
- 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
- There are six different versions of the Eclipse for 1997:RS, GS, GS-T, GSX, Spyder GS, and Spyder GS-T. All models receive an updated front fascia. GS and GS-T models receive a more prominent rear spoiler.
- 1997 Mitsubishi Galant
- The Galant receives a front and rear fascia restyle. Trim packages are realigned into DE, ES, and LS models.
- 1997 Mitsubishi Montero
- The Montero gains a new 200hp V-6 engine.