Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

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Shopping for a 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport? MSRP: $18,795 - $23,295

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The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a compact crossover that's aimed at those who dwell in the city, rather than the suburbs. Shorter than the Outlander, which is more of a utility vehicle in purpose, but about as tall and wide as that model, the Outlander Sport looks and drives quite differently than its larger cousin, and borrows some of its mechanical components from the Lancer family of sedans and hatchbacks. Currently, rival models include the Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, as well as perhaps the Scion xB and Kia Soul.

The Outlander Sport, which was brought to the U.S. for the 2011 model year, is sold in other markets as the Mitsubishi RVR or ASX, and is a modern replacement for the Mitsubishi Expo LRV (also sold as the Dodge Colt Wagon and Eagle Summit Wagon) sold in the U.S. in the 1990s. Like that vehicle, it aims to offer more space than you otherwise typically get with a parking footprint that's subcompact in some respects.

All Outlander Sport models come with a 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, hooked up to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) or five-speed manual gearbox. Out choice is without hesitation the manual, as the CVT tends to make the engine feel sluggish and boomy, especially on the highway. Fuel economy is unremarkable, at 25/31 mpg at best

From the outside, the front end of the Outlander Sport bears the most likeness to the rugged Outlander family, while the rest of the Outlander Sport feels like a rather tall, slab-sided hatchback. Inside, the Outlander Sport does feel far more like a tall car than a utility vehicle. While there's a lot to like inside the Outlander Sport for the practically minded—including supportive front seats, and real space for two adults (or three kids) in the back, as well as a low cargo floor, the downside of this model is its very basic, drab trims and an on-a-budget feel overall. Road noise is also an issue—although Mitsubishi reported making some improvements, with more insulation, for 2012.

The Outlander Sport stands out as a strong value for the money, especially considering that the base model starts at less than $20,000. Front knee airbags are a standard safety feature you won't find in many other models in this category, and keyless entry, A/C, and a 140-watt sound system are all included at the base level. Top-of-the-line SE models include automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, premium audio, and heated seats.