Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The Outlander Sport is offered in well-equipped ES and premium SE trims. All Outlander Sports are powered by a 148-horsepower, 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder engine. On ES models a 5-speed manual gearbox is standard, while a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is optional.
All-wheel drive is now available on both trim levels--only with the CVT--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 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-- four with two adults in back. Rear seatbacks are split 60/40 and fold forward, while back-seat occupants get a fold-down padded armrest and there's 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, as well as steering-wheel audio controls. The sound system that's included has 140 watts and four speakers. Other standard features on the ES include rear LED tail lamps, a trip computer, air conditioning, and rear heated ducts. SE models add a 6-speaker system, automatic climate control, HID headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and push-button engine start.
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.