Overview & Reviews

The Mitsubishi Outlander has been with us for the better part of a decade, and for the most part, never really managed to challenge the more established SUVs in its class. When Mitsubishi announced the Outlander Sport model -- a smaller version with the promise of more athletic performance -- it seemed like a concept that could possibly gain a foothold. Sadly, that was not the case. The "Sport" badge was quickly dismissed as disingenuous, as this smaller Outlander suffered from a weak engine and lazy handling. Styling was at least intriguing, as it picked up cues from the sporty Lancer Evolution, but the standard Outlander also looks similar and foregoes much of what plagues the Outlander Sport.

As it stands, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is sporty only in name and appearance. Furthermore, it comes up short in cargo capacity when compared to competitors. For these reasons, we struggle to recommend it over nearly any other compact SUV, let alone the top-ranked Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. Our suggestion is to check out everything else first.

Current Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is offered in two trim levels: the base ES and SE. Both models are powered by a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-4 engine. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the ES, while a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available as an option and is standard on the SE. Front-wheel drive is standard, with a three-mode all-wheel-drive system available only on the SE.

Notable Outlander ES standard features include remote keyless entry, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cloth upholstery, Mitsubishi's Fuse voice-activation system and auxiliary audio/USB input jacks. Stepping up to the SE adds 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights, foglights, automatic climate control, keyless ignition/entry, a second-row armrest with center pass-through, upgraded upholstery and a six-speaker stereo. Heated front seats are only offered with SE AWD models. Some of the SE features are available on the ES as options.

An optional Exterior Sport package adds cosmetic and aerodynamic exterior elements and an aluminum fuel door, while the Interior package (available with automatic transmissions only) adds piano-black interior trim and an aluminum shift knob. Other add-ons include interior mood lighting, exterior protection (scuff plates, mud guards and bumper guards) and cargo solutions. Additionally, SE AWD models are eligible for a hard-drive-based navigation system, a rearview camera, an auxiliary video input jack and the Premium package (includes a panoramic sunroof, roof rails and a Rockford Fosgate audio system).

Among competing compact SUVs, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is ranked below nearly every alternative. Despite the "Sport" moniker, engine power is barely adequate, resulting in a class-average 8.8 seconds with the manual transmission, while the CVT is considerably slower. Handling is also a bit of a disappointment, as it exhibits a healthy dose of body roll in the turns. Braking performance is similarly lacking when compared to other SUVs in this class, as is cargo capacity. The Outlander Sport does manage to provide a smooth, quiet ride and offers styling that sets it apart from the rest, but its drawbacks far outweigh the positives.

Used Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Models
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport debuted for 2011. Mitsubishi adjusted the optional CVT the next year for improved acceleration and response, though we've found the differences to be negligible.

User Reviews:

• 

  mits outlander sport nav system - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By sysmark - May 10 - 4:58 pm

  Purchased a 2011 mits outlander sport with nav and what a ripoff! The maps are outdated (2009), will not locate or direct to streets that have been built since 2005. Even my old Tom Tom sees these roads. Paid $2000.00+ and you get a 2009 map? I called the dealer (said that is the latest ) and Mits directly and have not heard a word from them. DONT BUY THE NAV IF YOU ARE BUYING A NEW MITS AUTO!!! I HAVE BEEN A LOYAL MITS AUTO BUYER SINCE THE 90S (3000GT VR4, MONTERO, OUTLANDER, AND NOW OUTLANDER SPORT) Make sure you ask the right question before purchasing.

• 

  Good car for the money - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By mitsudriver1 - April 28 - 10:56 pm

  I have about 30K miles on my Outlander Sport. I purchased this car for commuting and general running about in the city. It took a little getting used to since I have been driving a Large SUV with V-8 power for the last 15 years. With that said this car is adequate for what it does. ITs not a very quick off the line but if you use the paddle shifters it helps. Once up to speed it moves nicely and cruises at 75-80 mph with ease. I have found it to be pretty versitile considering its size. I am able to haul around bicycles, potting soil, plants etc. I have averaged between 26-28 mpg in mixed city/hwy driving and I dont baby this car. The handeling is very car like and generally comfortable

• 

  Better than expected - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Jackie - October 20 - 12:53 am

  I had to get rid of my 2009 lancer ralliart because it needed very expensive repairs. I literally cried. I loved that car. However, I am pregnant and needed something more practical anyways. My old car had two 10" subs in the back and no room for a stroller. I knew this car would not live up to that car since my old car had AWD and a turbo. I like driving fast. Ive been pleasantly surprised with the "get up and go" this car has. Not comparing it to my lancer of course. However, a few years ago I had a 2008 Ford Escape and that thing was so slow to go. I havent been using the paddle shifters, but I might give them a try. I also need to learn better how to really use the CVT transmission. Im used to a SST transmission. I enjoy the upgrades on this model, but Ill admit that some of them seem kind of random. I wouldve taken dual climate control over heated heats. I think the HID headlights are pretty nice though and I like the accent of the led lights that are always on. The panoramic glass roof is cool, but it doesnt open for fresh air. So thats another upgrade that I dont really understand. The headlights are adjustable up and down , bluetooth audio, rockford fosgate sound system that includes tweeters and a built in 10" sub in the back, mood lighting on the panoramic roof, rain sensing wipers, chrome accents inside, back up camera. The only thing I feel that I am missing is navigation (which I honestly wouldnt use much) and leather seats. Just putting the stroller in the back takes up a lot of cargo space. I kind of wish it was a little larger back there. I know my Escape had more room in the back. I plan on keeping this car for about 3 years and then getting my race car again. This time it will be a Subaru WRX STI since Mistubishi decided to end the Lancer Evolution. Kind of pissed about that! Whats the deal Mistubishi?!

• 

  Nice car! - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By DFosness - May 29 - 2:00 am

  During my research I looked at quite a few different makes. I decided on the Outlander Sport because of the standard features. i was concerned about the 2.0 4 cylinder engine but it performed well over my expectations. I was passing everyone I came to on the freeway with no effort at all. The interior is more spacious then I expected. I have plenty of room at 6 feet and 350 pounds. Personally, I like the looks of the exterior but not everyone will. All and all, this is an extremely fine vehicle for the price. Thousands less then similar in class with far far fewer features.

• 

  Love it! - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By meggiemay - January 2 - 11:25 am

  I purchased a 2012 Outlander Sport with 12,000 miles on it a little over a month ago, upgrading from a 06 Cobalt Coupe. All I can say is that I absolutely love this car and have no regrets making the purchase. I read every possible review on the vehicle I could find before making the purchase, so I thought it would be helpful to post my thoughts on the car. Overall I feel like a got a affordable yet reliable SUV with all the features of a more "luxury" brand.

• 

  5 spd manual transmission - 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By augustlee - November 23 - 12:20 pm

  I am having this great car for 2 months and got 4000 miles on it. It is so far so great and I am totally satisfied. Especially when you think about the vehicles price, this is the best value you can ever get. It is very roomy and cozy for long long drive. We drove down to Vegas from San Francisco and to Los Angeles and again drove back to SF (its about 1k mile) with 3 people and one cello case (which is bigger than golf case) and 2 big luggage and few bags and waters etc in the car. Car was running very good at hills with 3 people and such load in it. And since this is manual transmission, you get more power than cvt and probably more mpg if you put little more effort on it.

• 

  Wishing for more - 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By mitsu_david - September 18 - 5:54 am

  Wishing for better mileage - Got about 25 on my first all highway road trip. Not much better than I get in town. Maybe it will get better when the engine loosens up a little. Wishing for more performance - Not terrible but far from a "Sporty" experience Wishing for nicer finishes - nothing objectionable, but it seems it could be better with just a little effort Could not be happier with the deal, though. I would have had to pay several thousand more to get a Crossover I liked better. Warranty is great, too. Im glad because my previous Monterro cost me a ton and was worth nothing when I traded it in.

• 

  Chick car - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By kukusa - January 28 - 12:04 am

  My wife and I purchased a fully loaded RVR (as they call it here in Canada) in the summer of 2012. It was mostly me rather than my wife who was sold on this cars styling. However, in less than a year, we decided to traded it in for a european station wagon and it turned out to be our best car purchasing decision. Having said that, our biggest complain was actually the ride height. The Mitsubishi is in fact a well put together package at a bargain price. We had drove the new Escape, MX-5 and Forester prior to the Mitsubishi but we didnt like any of them even they are more expensive. We didnt pick the wrong crossover, we simply picked the wrong car segment.

• 

  Dont expect to much - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By gfish556 - November 25 - 1:04 pm

  Does not get great MPG! I only get 16 MPG running around town. Traded in a large 6.0 yukon that got 13 MPG thinking this would do better. Noisy and cheap, They put 18" tires hoping to give it a better ride but sill rides rough. Its a compact car trying to be a crossover SUV. But for a cheap 4x4 its worth the money. It does has a great warranty. The SE is way better inside than the ES, But the ES is cheaper to. Dont expect to wow! anyone with this car. Nothing great about it? Except you cant by a cheaper 4x4 for the price. And no towing at all! No class 2 hitch for bikes are allowed, voids the warranty. So forget about taking bikes and kids someplace.

• 

  Great Value - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By fazzster - November 19 - 10:20 pm

  My number one priority for this class is the availability of a manual transmission. Which narrows it down to CX5, Tiguan, 500L and Forester. I already have a brilliant 500L so i dont need 2. I drive 30k miles per year so the VW (having owned a few in the past) are not the most reliable for the long run. The Forester is a solid buy but pricey and boring to drive. CX5 is overall more polished and "funner" to drive. Bottom line, my Mitsu has a warranty that makes sense for a high mileage driver and $18k out the door is a very good deal. It drives very smooth and handles quite well for the class. I see 29-32mpg with out even trying and have achieved 34-35mpg on some short stints.