The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is offered in well-equipped ES, premium SE and sporty GT trims. The standard engine in ES and SE trims is a 148-horsepower, 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder engine. A 168-horsepower 2.4L four is optional in the ES and SE and standard in the GT. On 2-wheel-drive ES models, a 5-speed manual gearbox is standard, while a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional and standard on all other Outlander Sports.
All-wheel drive is available on all trim levels, and the system, which is geared toward improved traction on slippery roads, includes a separate 2WD mode for improved fuel efficiency.
The Outlander Sport is laid out more as a tall car than as a traditional utility vehicle, and with responsive, quick-ratio electric power steering it drives more like a sporty hatchback on the road. It maneuvers well and parks easily in the city, and CVT models offer steering-wheel paddle-shifters that let you toggle between six simulated gears.
Inside, the Outlander Sport has space for five. Rear seatbacks are split 60/40 and fold forward, while back-seat occupants get a fold-down padded armrest. There's also a trunk pass-through for skis and longer items.
All Outlander Sport models include Mitsubishi's FUSE connectivity system for hands-free cellphone use, as well as a USB port for cellphone or iPod control, plus steering-wheel audio controls. The standard sound system has 140 watts and four speakers. Other standard features on the ES include rear LED tail lamps, a trip computer, air conditioning and rear heat ducts. SE models add a 6-speaker system, automatic climate control, HID headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, rearview camera, and push-button engine start. The GT trim includes chrome exterior accents, integrated turn signals in the mirrors, a power driver's seat, roof rails and aluminum pedals.
Top options on the Outlander Sport include a navigation system with real-time traffic data plus music-server storage; a 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate sound system with nine speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer; Sirius XM satellite radio; and a panoramic glass roof with adjustable LED lighting.
On the safety front, all models include electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, Hill Start Assist, active front headrests and a driver knee bag in addition to a full set of frontal and side airbags.
Great Maneuverability And Parking Ease
All-weather Capability With All-wheel Drive
Roomy, Versatile Layout
Safety Features
Affordability And Value
The 2016 Outlander Sport gets several enhancements to both the exterior and the interior this year. The new front fascia is the most immediately noticeable change, with a new grill, lip moldings and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the steering wheel has been redesigned along with some of the HVAC controls. New seating materials round out the changes to the outlander sport for 2016.
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers the convenience of a crossover utility vehicle in a footprint that's smaller than most compact sedans, which makes it extremely easy to park and maneuver. The Outlander Sport has an attractive package for small families, with relatively good fuel efficiency and a strong set of safety features. With improved standard equipment and appearance enhancements, it's an impressive value for the money.