Likes
- Great value for money these days.
- 3.5 L offers excellent performance.
- Huge range of models and variants to choose from.
- Affordable maintenance and overall, regarded as reliable however…
Exterior:
Interior:
Mechanically:
Exterior:
Interior:
Mechanically:
Transmission:
Update Details:
TE/KE (1996–1997): The TE and KE Magna/Verada were the most aerodynamic cars ever produced in Australia, surpassing even the VF Commodore and FG X Falcon in this regard.
TF/KF (1997–1998): This update brought redesigned wheel covers, speed-limit alerts, and upgraded interior trims, including cup holders. The Executive and Advance trims looked identical externally, but the Advance added airbags and ABS. The Altera and Altera LS trims introduced power windows and other features like dual airbags. Manual transmissions became limited to specific trims, and a limited-edition Solara variant was offered mid-1998 with alloy wheels and exclusive badging.
TH/KH (1999–2000): The 4-cylinder engine was dropped due to slow sales and consumer demand for more power. The 3.0L V6 became standard, while the 3.5L V6 became optional on the Executive and standard on higher trims. Cosmetic changes included a new front grille, redesigned rear end, updated interiors, and revised wheel designs. Air conditioning became standard across the range.
TJ/KJ (2000–2002): This update introduced a raised central bonnet section and new grille design. Rolling updates during this series added side-impact bars for the Australian market and energy-absorbing material in the front doors.
TJ.II (2002–2003): Introduced Tiptronic functionality to the 5-speed automatic and featured a new instrument cluster, two-tone interiors, and chrome gearshift surrounds. This series also saw the debut of the AWD Magna/Verada, which continued until the model’s end in 2005.
TL/KL (2003–2004): The TL/KL update brought restyled front and rear ends, mild mechanical revisions, and improved interior trims. These updates included enhanced equipment, technology, and safety features.
TW/KW (2004–2005): The final facelift, this series introduced “Series II” badging, color-coded headlight bezels, and larger US-spec bumpers for the Verada. It marked the end of the Magna/Verada line before the introduction of the Mitsubishi 380.
Exterior:
Interior:
Mechanically:
Transmission:
Update Details:
TE/KE (1996–1997): The TE and KE Magna/Verada were the most aerodynamic cars ever produced in Australia, surpassing even the VF Commodore and FG X Falcon in this regard.
TF/KF (1997–1998): This update brought redesigned wheel covers, speed-limit alerts, and upgraded interior trims, including cup holders. The Executive and Advance trims looked identical externally, but the Advance added airbags and ABS. The Altera and Altera LS trims introduced power windows and other features like dual airbags. Manual transmissions became limited to specific trims, and a limited-edition Solara variant was offered mid-1998 with alloy wheels and exclusive badging.
TH/KH (1999–2000): The 4-cylinder engine was dropped due to slow sales and consumer demand for more power. The 3.0L V6 became standard, while the 3.5L V6 became optional on the Executive and standard on higher trims. Cosmetic changes included a new front grille, redesigned rear end, updated interiors, and revised wheel designs. Air conditioning became standard across the range.
TJ/KJ (2000–2002): This update introduced a raised central bonnet section and new grille design. Rolling updates during this series added side-impact bars for the Australian market and energy-absorbing material in the front doors.
TJ.II (2002–2003): Introduced Tiptronic functionality to the 5-speed automatic and featured a new instrument cluster, two-tone interiors, and chrome gearshift surrounds. This series also saw the debut of the AWD Magna/Verada, which continued until the model’s end in 2005.
TL/KL (2003–2004): The TL/KL update brought restyled front and rear ends, mild mechanical revisions, and improved interior trims. These updates included enhanced equipment, technology, and safety features.
TW/KW (2004–2005): The final facelift, this series introduced “Series II” badging, color-coded headlight bezels, and larger US-spec bumpers for the Verada. It marked the end of the Magna/Verada line before the introduction of the Mitsubishi 380.
Should you buy a 3rd generation Mitsubishi Magna or Verada? The right Magna or Verada can be a fantastic car. Naturally, you should avoid examples that are clapped out, neglected, or abused. However, if you find one that has been loved and well cared for, it could represent one of the most underrated options on the used market. That said, we ultimately don’t think you should buy one.
If you’re a dedicated fan of these cars and are willing to invest time on forums and in owners’ groups tracking down increasingly rare spare parts as age takes its toll on various components, then go for it. Buy a Magna, and do everything you can to keep it on the road because it’s a car that deserves to be celebrated.
However, if you’re after a reliable, easy-to-maintain workhorse and are working within a tight budget, we’d suggest considering more popular alternatives. Models like the Toyota Camry, Ford Falcon, or Holden Commodore offer better parts availability and easier ownership overall.
Should you buy a 3rd generation Mitsubishi Magna or Verada? The right Magna or Verada can be a fantastic car. Naturally, you should avoid examples that are clapped out, neglected, or abused. However, if you find one that has been loved and well cared for, it could represent one of the most underrated options on the used market. That said, we ultimately don’t think you should buy one.
If you’re a dedicated fan of these cars and are willing to invest time on forums and in owners’ groups tracking down increasingly rare spare parts as age takes its toll on various components, then go for it. Buy a Magna, and do everything you can to keep it on the road because it’s a car that deserves to be celebrated.
However, if you’re after a reliable, easy-to-maintain workhorse and are working within a tight budget, we’d suggest considering more popular alternatives. Models like the Toyota Camry, Ford Falcon, or Holden Commodore offer better parts availability and easier ownership overall.
Should you buy a 3rd generation Mitsubishi Magna or Verada? The right Magna or Verada can be a fantastic car. Naturally, you should avoid examples that are clapped out, neglected, or abused. However, if you find one that has been loved and well cared for, it could represent one of the most underrated options on the used market. That said, we ultimately don’t think you should buy one.
If you’re a dedicated fan of these cars and are willing to invest time on forums and in owners’ groups tracking down increasingly rare spare parts as age takes its toll on various components, then go for it. Buy a Magna, and do everything you can to keep it on the road because it’s a car that deserves to be celebrated.
However, if you’re after a reliable, easy-to-maintain workhorse and are working within a tight budget, we’d suggest considering more popular alternatives. Models like the Toyota Camry, Ford Falcon, or Holden Commodore offer better parts availability and easier ownership overall.
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Warranty
Servicing
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Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Jan 13, 2025.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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