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 New Car - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By jason110 - March 11 - 1:38 pm

  The Outlander Sport is a car-like SUV that doesnt look like a typical compact car or SUV. The sporty styling is great and the size is just right. The Outlander Sport has a quiet ride and handles well. Highway acceleration is good (for a small, high MPG vehicle). Interior is comfortable, uncluttered, and has plenty of leg room even for tall drivers. Lots of electronic features come standard (USB port, Bluetooth, voice commands, trip computer, etc). Excellent warranty, fuel economy, price, and safety features.

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  2.4 L AWD GT Outlander Sport - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Mintlo - January 30 - 5:07 pm

  This is my first Mitsubishi after owning an Acura TL and prior to that owning Fords and Chevrolets. I am pleased with vehicle so far(500 miles in...) it has all the bells and whistles that I wanted at a most affordable price(compared to similar models and options) along with the best warranty bumper to bumper and powertrain in the industry(The dealer I purchased from adds a lifetime powertrain warranty). Little things that I liked about this model are the heated seats(they heat up really fast and get quite toasty), backup monitor, parking assist sensors, mirror turn lamps, and fog lamps. Fuel economy is around 25 mph between city and highway(a little better when I turn off the AWD to 2 wheel drive only.

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  So far, great car! - 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By lejean - December 13 - 8:29 pm

  I bought my 2013 pearl white Outlander Sport in November, 2013. I have over 32,000 miles on it so far, not a bit of trouble. I usually read professional reviews before I buy anything but this time I didnt. My Ford Taurus was costing a fortune in repairs. I wanted good mileage and all the bells and whistles. I looked at Honda and various other cars, despite the higher prices, could not find the extras I wanted. The Outlander Sport fits the bill and more. After reading professional reviews, I was embarrassed for buying a so-called "loser". However, talking with other owners and my own experience, Im so glad I didnt read before I bought. Mitsubishi needs to put out the word. Real bargain!

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  first 300 miles - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Stan - December 6 - 2:00 am

  Overall, the car is nice. It is relatively quiet (except for acceleration) and comfortable. Gas mileage is lower than it is advertised. On average it has been 18 mpg in the city and 21-22 mpg on highway. Mitsubishi dealership experience was so-so.

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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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  Dont buy this car you will be sorry. - 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By Rojas - September 19 - 6:17 pm

  The car has a metallic chain noise that comes and goes intermittently as you take off or when your going up hills or driving low. You have to use expensive gas 89 the dealership will tell you and you will still hear the noise chain (makes me think of a bike chain dragging) noise after. The dealership even told me to get the fuel injector cleaned and I still get the same noise with that done a few times and with octane boost put in with the gas. Dont buy this car. I want back to the dealer and I was told that the motor is making the SUV make that sound with all the power it need to run the car and it will always make that noise and it would only get worst in the winter time and get louder. I got a new car to have a problem free car not have a lot of new problems. The material that the seats are made with are cheap and the moldings at the bottom of the seats where made very cheap and will come off if you tap them and break. The SUV basically has no trunks you just have a cargo cover over your make shift trunk area and the bluetooth system is horrible you will be frustrated after the car asks you like four times whats the name of the person you want to call and then asks you actually want to call them over and over again. The radio is hard to navigate if you get the radio stereo stuck on repeat or shuffle you have to play with it a long time to get it off. Good luck and dont choose this problem car I want to trade this car in for something that isnt Mitsubishi now. First and last time buying a Mitsubishi. BUYER BEWARE. Dont buy it you will be sorry and in for a big head ache and disappointment.

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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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  Outlander sport se - 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By stanb - February 11 - 12:29 am

  Overall, the car is OK. It is fairly comfortable and stylish. Road noise is well dampened. It is adequate for a single person or small family. I was somewhat disappointed with the performance and fuel economy. On average fuel consumption is 18-19mpg in the city, 20-22mpg on highway. Mitsubishi dealership experience was dismal.

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  Best value compact SUV - 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  By zagno83 - February 10 - 12:02 pm

  We just picked up an SE model with a lot of accessories including leather, it is a 2012 model in pearl white. After a bout 2 weeks of testing cars and reading reviews, this is IMO the best value out there, i always liked MITSU. product and this car has a great design and a host of cool features for a very good price and fuel economy. Dont trust the so called "expert" reviews, they are too severe with it, but if u read the consumers reviews they are very good. When i first test drove the car it felt slow, sluggish and noisy, well it is a lil bit, however after a long second test drive i realize that it takes time to learn this CVT transmission. Overall best value out there!!!!

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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!