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:

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  The best for your money - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By kizashiowner - September 4 - 12:04 am

  My wife wanted 4x4 to tackle the snow mountain at shoprite and BJs, kidding ladies. I wanted her to have AWD si I feel safer that she is driving all weather car with my daughter in it. Researched over and over and couldnt find better value. 8.5 ground clearance, AWC one of the best with 4 lock in case of deep snow, comfort seats so she says and my wife is picky, as for the power though it can use more but you can always use the manual shifter by the steering wheel and pass with no issue, 710 W Rockoford Fostage, I want that in my car amazing sound if you enjoy your music, HD headlights cover four lane in the highway bright like a daylight, enough cargo for small family but fun safe AWD

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  5 speed stick 2014 Outlander Sport ROCKS! - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Mitsubishi Convert - May 26 - 5:44 pm

  The Mitsubishi 5 speed manual Outlander Sport is truly a fine SUV that gets good MPG, has plenty of power and handles well...I really enjoy this car! and with the rebates, it is great value! One of the best cars Ive ever owned and fun to drive...Union made (UAW) and built in the USA, I had never bought Mitsubishi before but am very impressed and would highly suggest that you take a look at the Outlander Sport before you buy!

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  Hard to decide if I like it... - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By strand83 - February 26 - 9:24 pm

  I am now beginning to understand why the Mitsubishi dealer had so many Outlander Sports and why I got a price under $16k. While this car looks amazing and offers a lot for the price, Mitsubishi definitely cut some corners. I have two main issues with this vehicle: 1. Suspension - Try driving one on the freeway at 65 MPH and you will feel the car be thrown around by the ruts and grooves in the road. It is much more noticeable than most cars because of the soft suspension. 2. MIVEC valve timing - My Outlander Sport has less than 2500 miles on it. I have had 3 check engine lights. The dealer says the computer needs a reset due to timing. Obviously the MIVEC hasnt been completely sorted out.

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  Peppy enough for me, stylish and nice features. - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By cdt2833 - October 25 - 1:26 pm

  Job location change increased my commute to nearly 80miles round trip. Traded in my heavy, thirsty truck for something a bit sporty, comfortable and CUV-like in terms of cargo capacity. Test drove several Hyundai products including the Tucson and went to the Mitsu dealer last. Nice features on the ES at the sub 20k price point including handsfree phone integration via FUSE system, telescoping steering wheel, full complement of steering wheel controls including magnesium paddle shifters for the CVT. Some soft touch surfaces on the dash and door panels. The 4B11 2.0L is not a hot rod but once you become accustomed to the acceleration with CVT it is more than enough for typical driving.

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  Inexpensive but has design issues - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By danb61 - September 14 - 6:26 pm

  The Pros-good looking, simple but functional interior, comfortable seating, 2WD/AWD/4WD simple switch, good visibility, AWD/4WD worked very well in snow, smooth 6 speed transmission, inexpensive, good visibility The Cons-gas mileage lower than advertised, drops dramatically over 60 mph, engine struggles at higher interstate speeds, excessive road noise, wonders on the interstate, large pillars are blind spots, A/C causes engine to drop to 400 rpm, idling rough, surges to 1500 rpm with A/C on and causes vehicle to accelerate, difficult starting, stong, outgassing new car smell

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  Mitsu - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By robin m - February 2 - 7:36 am

  Although the critics seem to dislike this car I not say enough about it. Handles the road really well and is extremely comfortable to drive. It may not go from zero to 60 in three seconds but overall it has pretty good pick up and is fun to drive. Cant wait for it to snow so I can test out the AWD