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.
Great Maneuverability And Parking Ease
All-weather Capability With All-wheel Drive
Roomy, Versatile Layout
Safety Features
Affordability And Value
For 2013, Mitsubishi has introduced a number of subtle changes to help make the Outlander Sport look and feel a little more sophisticated and refined. In front there's a redesigned fascia, along with a new grille and fog lamp design. The rear bumper design is also new, and the side sills are now black. The doors also get new chrome trim inside and out.
Also inside are new seating fabrics, and a higher-grade sound insulation brings a quieter cabin overall. Sound quality for the Premium Audio System has been improved as well, with new high-performance speakers.
Meanwhile, the Outlander Sport gets substantial tuning changes that should help it drive a bit better: The rear suspension has been retuned; so has the electric power steering, which now transmits a little more steering feel. And the continuously variable automatic transmission has a new calibration for a smoother shift feel.
Otherwise a new ES 4WD model is new to the lineup and offers the All-Wheel Control system at a lower price than the SE 4WD. SiriusXM satellite radio and heated front seats now come standard on the SE model; 18-inch alloy wheels come standard on all models; and two new colors, White Pearl and Quick Silver, join the palette.
The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers the convenience of a crossover utility vehicle in a footprint that's smaller than most compact sedans--making 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 this year's improved standard equipment and appearance enhancements, it's an impressive value for the money.
