The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a strong competitor in the SUV market. Not surprisingly, the five-passenger Outlander Sport was embraced in the automobile market this year. As Mitsubishi reports, the Outlander Sport was qualified as its best-selling model. In fact, for U.S. dealers November sales for this American-built crossover marked the best year-to-date ever, up 25.3% (ytd), and Kelley Blue Book named it to the "10 Most Affordable SUVs" list as well as KBB.com's "10 Best Back-to-School Cars of 2014," the only crossover/SUV to make the list. The Outlander Sport is available in two versions, which include the SE and ES. Both versions have a host of standard features, but the SE includes additional higher tech options.

A feature of the Outlander Sport is the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that produces 148 HP and 145 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is present on the ES version, while the SE version features a continuously variable automatic (CVT, which is optional on the ES version). With either the CVT or the manual gearbox, the Outlander Sport gets EPA city rating of 24 mpg city and a hwy rating of 31 mpg. It has a 105.1" wheelbase and has an overall body length of 170" with standard 18" wheels.




Despite its compact dimensions, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport's back seat is spacious enough to accommodate adults comfortably. Even though the automobile doesn't have a huge amount of cargo space, test drivers agreed that there is enough cargo space to hold a few suitcases. Its interior is surprisingly wonderful, from its dark, sleek appearance to the soft touch of the dashboard. The tilt-telescopic steering wheel with auxiliary audio controls is a welcome addition for taller drivers. The speedometer and tachometer are crisp with white back-lighting and numerals that are easy to read at a glance. Its ergonomics are quite good, including both the automatic and manual climate controls.

Other unique features and options of the automobile include a FUSE voice-command system for phones and music devices, HD Radio, Satellite, Hill Start Assist, Sportronic Steering wheel paddle shifters, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, FAST-key passive entry system with panic feature, a power driver's seat, a four speaker stereo with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, automatic climate control, push-button start and a panoramic moon roof (among others).

For safety, the Outlander Sport comes with anti-lock brakes, standard stability control and seven air bags (full-length side curtain, driver's knees, front side, and front). In government crash tests, the automobile received a rating of four stars out five. It also earned the coveted Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) 2014 Top Safety Pick Award. It is fun to drive and easy to park. This compact crossover is Mitsubishi's best selling vehicle for a reason.


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