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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  Great car for the money - Awesome! - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By jc24 - November 4 - 4:17 pm

  Outlander Sport rocks! Have been in the market for 3 months and tested CRV, RAV4, Tucson, Euinocx, Rogue, CX7, Sportage... you name it. Outlander is the BEST in terms what I got for my money. The SE AWD comes with standard options that no brand could compete. Drove 7000 miles in 3 months, all east coast. On highway at 65-70mph averaged 27.4mpg (vs 29), in the city-NJ/manhattan about 22.6 (vs 24) mpg. The engine is enough for this car, unless you want to race. My wife loves the car, hill support, compact, easy to park, touch and go, enough space for the kid and stuff. This car is for people young in spirit. Yes, I was hesitant at first but now is at/over par to Toyota or Honda.Why pay more?

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  Outlander Sport Obsessed! - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Michele Knight - February 11 - 1:31 pm

  I read all of the reviews before deciding to purchase the 2015 Outlander Sport SE. I live in Florida, so having heated seats was not a big deal for me. However, it did have to have great braking and great traction on the busy roads. This vehicle does NOT disappoint. My last car was also a Mitsubishi and it lasted me 13 years. That, in itself, sold me on the Mitsubishi line of cars. To be honest, Mitsubishi is highly UNDERRATED! I see people complaining about the CVT and the torque of the engine. It doesnt bother me at all. The main thing that you must keep in mind is this SUV is NOT an off-roading vehicle. Also, just because it has "sport" in the name, doesnt mean its a sports car! This car, for me is EXACTLY what I wanted without going into MAJOR debt! The navigation system is great, the 9 speaker Rockford Fosgate with the 10" subwoofer really kicks some music butt, and the panoramic moon roof is incredible! This car drives like a dream! The 4 disk brakes are highly responsible and the steering is spot on! What I really enjoy about this car, is the fact that I can change from an automatic transmission to a manual transmission. This works out great when you want to get off the "red light line" first or, you have to speed up on a highway on-ramp. Unfortunately, not many people who come to Florida, know how to drive their cars and proper road procedures. Currently, I am getting 25.6 mpg driving in the City. Keep in mind, I am also not driving the car like Im Mario Andretti! Im a 43 year old mom. I dont need to drive like a maniac! But when I do, this car has the needed "get up and go"! I highly recommend this car if you are in the market. From what I understand, the 2015 will be the last made with a gas engine. In 2016, Mitsubishi will be redesigning the Outlander Sport with a Hybrid engine. Regardless of whats to come, I am extremely happy with my purchase! I like having a vehicle that doesnt look like every other SUV on the road!

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  Perfect City Cross Over - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By ivand1 - February 5 - 8:52 pm

  I bought this car for my wife and based on her feedback the vehicle is simply awesome! I personally feel the engine lacks some power considering the weight of the vehicle; however, knowing how to use the paddle shifters do compensate for it, at the end, it all depends greatly on the driving style. On the other hand, features are above the expectations - got to love the blue Tooth connectivity, its also spacious and priced around right. At the end, I firmly believe this vehicle is conceived with a female target in mind and for that they did get it right!

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  best value in this category - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Doug - January 28 - 4:44 am

  This is my 2nd Mitsu. I put 50k + on a 2014 Lancer and never had an issue. Great car. This Outlander Sport is fun to drive, unbelievably reliable and great utility. This is a very competitive segment and this Outlander Sport is very competitive. The value is terrific. We have owned for 3 months and put almost 9k miles on it. Very comfortable on long drives. Looks great too. Mitsub may not be real popular in the US but ubiquitous everywhere else. Definitely check this one out. Plus the dealer in Raleigh is fantastic. After 8 months of ownership we are still very pleased with our purchase. No unscheduled maintenance or issues. Im seeing more and more of these Outlander Sports on the road so the word must be spreading. 1 year update - Still like this car. Runs great, still comfortable. Gas mileage is still good. no issues.

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  Great Crossover, would be better 6 cylinders - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By sjcruiser36 - September 14 - 9:53 pm

  I have had this vehicle since October 2012. My check engine light just came on, and the code at AutoZones states its the oxygen sensor. Hopefully this is covered by the warranty since I only have 18,000 miles on it. Other than this issue, I havent had any others issues with it. It would be better with a 6 cylinder engine, and if the current engine didnt make the clicking noise, but its apart of the design. I havent had any road noise issues, and she gets pretty good gas mileage especially when Im paying attention to the green fuel efficiency line. The ride is comfortable for me, and others who are driving or are in the back seat, and the cargo space is enough for most needs.

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  I LOVE this SUV!!! - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By lc8128 - August 8 - 9:03 pm

  This thing gets as good mileage as my econo-box hatchback w/5-speed. I drive 60/40 Hwy/City and have been averaging 29/mpg!!! I bought the base model because I was trying to keep the cost down. I am really surprised at all the features that are STANDARD. Between the look of the vehicle, interior, electronics, & performance - this SUV has to be one of the best values out there. Good job Mitsubishi!!!

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  Value for Money - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By anthony_p - May 16 - 1:29 pm

  I have 2015 GT FWD model and its surprisingly comfort ride. I decided to purchase a crossover due to long commute to work and i was looking for price factor(basically a value for money) crossover without moving to a car, I looked at multiple crossovers from different car manufactures and decided to purchase Outlander Sport 2.4L GT model.Wow Im glad that i bought this car and i really enjoy the car for daily commute. The visibility in the car is excellent same like sitting on any other full size SUV. If you are looking for a smaller, reliable, sporty crossover then its best bet for the price and options. This is not for a family who have more kids as trunk space is too small.

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  sporty little ride - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By mmetz242@gmail.com - March 18 - 4:17 pm

  Just purchased this vehicle from Goldstein Auto Albany and its a great little ride, excellent on gas and great size to, room enough for a small family and also room for the groceries in the back cargo area and easy to get to. I have heard these vehicles are great in the snow , so im looking forward to not getting stuck in the snow this winter.

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  Tires - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By momof4 - February 14 - 12:55 pm

  Bought this brand new in January of 2016. No problems until it snowed a little. Car slipped and slid down the road less than a mile from my home toward my destination. The Anti lock system engaged and could not control the car. These tires that the factory put on, are garbage. My car was built in Normal IL, and we all know about snow here. Why didnt they put all terrain tires on this car is beyond me.

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  Love my Mitsu!!! - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By CAL - February 13 - 4:34 pm

  i have been a Mitsu owner for 25 years, and 4 trucks, 2 Monteros, and 2 Outlanders, i have never had any problems with any of them, adn still have 2 of them now. These is a very good CUV, i admit the earlier 2013 and 2014, had a sluggish CVT, but otherwise there were great, reliable cars. But like the other review they get NO RESPECT, Mitsubishi created the CUV concept, long before Honda hrv, mazda 3,or those others, i Got a great deal on the vehicle, and fully loaded for $22k, BECAUSE OF OWNER LOYALTY, CAR WAS VALUES AT 28K. The remote start, heated seats, auto climate, auto wipers, auto lights, interior lights, awc, roof racks and 18 wheels. , and more, and it has a simpe and easy entertainment system, and love the controls on the steering wheel, simple and always works . Not a millions plastic buttons to push or turn. it is good in all weather conditions, if you have the right tires, and have some knowledge of how to drive. I really wish they would bring back the Montero/Pajero, or others from the European market.