Serving as the junior crossover in Mitsubishi’s lineup, the five-passenger Outlander Sport lures buyers with its moderate price and muscular styling. Like most entrants in this class, it delivers a mix of economy and versatility that aims to be just right for family life. Mitsubishi also produces a larger Outlander model with seven-passenger seating.
What's New for 2017
Mitsubishi has modified its larger Outlander model considerably for 2017, but the Outlander Sport sees only minor updates. Automatic climate control and a “shark fin” antenna now are standard. Seat material for the ES edition has been upgraded.
Choosing Your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Not to be confused with the regular Outlander, the Outlander Sport is shorter, weighs less, and rides on hefty 18-inch wheels. Maximum cargo space totals 49.5 cubic feet, which actually positions the Sport closer to the subcompact crossover class than the compact category.
Two engines are offered. The standard 2-liter four-cylinder produces 148 horsepower and comes with either a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Most models are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which develops 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque, and comes only with the CVT. All-wheel drive (called All-Wheel Control by Mitsubishi) is available with both engines, but the 2-liter requires an upgrade to the CVT. Paddle shifters are included with the CVT on SEL and GT models.
Fuel economy with the 2-liter engine and manual shift is estimated at 23 mpg in city driving and 28 mpg on the highway. The CVT earns 24/30 mpg (city/highway). With front-drive, the 2.4-liter engine is estimated at 23/28 mpg (city/highway), versus 22/27 mpg with all-wheel drive.
The Outlander Sport comes in four trim levels:
Major individual options include navigation and rear parking sensors.
Unless you must have a manual transmission, upgrading to the SE is money well spent. It carries almost everything buyers want in this class. Whether to splurge on the SEL or GT depends on how much additional comfort and convenience you're willing to pay for.