2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
Mitsubishi offers two subcompact SUVs, the Outlander Sport and Eclipse Cross, but neither is a MotorTrend favorite. The Outlander Sport is the smaller of the two offerings and is the most affordable way into Mitsubishi's SUV lineup. Rivals to the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport include the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Honda HR-V .
Looking for the standard Outlander compact SUV?Read about it here.
What's New
- Trail Edition model
- Complimentary limited maintenance for two years or 30,000 miles
- GT trim rebadged as SEL
What We Think
Sometimes being the most affordable SUV in the lineup isn't all it's cracked up to be, particularly for the Outlander Sport. Its lowest trim levels are lean on features, and its small size and engine seem to provide little benefit when it comes to fuel efficiency. Plus, several of its competitors offer better cabins and safety scores.
But as the brand's smallest crossover, it's a good fit for dense urban environments. Its infotainment system is easy to use, and we think the Outlander Sport is the best use of Mitsubishi's current SUV design language. Plus, the Sport gets the same great warranty and now two years of free limited maintenance that every 2024 Mitsubishi receives.
Performance and MPGs
Every 2024 Outlander Sport is AWD, and there are two powertrains available—both employ a CVT automatic. The spicier engine is only for the SEL model, a 168-hp 2.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, although it is neither exceptionally powerful nor all that efficient. It returns fuel economy of 23/28 mpg city/highway.
A 148-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder is the other engine, used in lower trim levels, but it's barely more efficient. It's rated at 23/29 mpg city/highway. With its 2.0-liter non-turbo inline-four, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross AWD sees much better numbers: 29/32 mpg city/highway.
What Is the 2024 Outlander Sport Trail Edition?
Mitsubishi says the new trim commemorates the automaker's off-road heritage—we're guessing AWD performance cars like the rally-racing Lancer Evolution, Starion, Galant, and Pajero. The 2024 Outlander Sport Trail Edition does this primarily with cosmetic modifications.
Distinct graphics adorn the front, rear, and hood of the crossover. Black side and fender moldings, a black hood protector and tailgate trim, black inner door handle protectors, mud flaps, and all-weather floor mats are also standard.
Safety Ratings and Features
The IIHS gives the 2024 Outlander Sport several Good ratings but two Acceptable grades as well, for child car seat ease of use and for the small overlap front impact test. In NHTSA assessments, the 2024 model missed a five-star overall safety rating—the administration's highest—by one star.
In terms of driver assistance features, the 2024 Outlander Sport gets only the basics. Automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, and lane departure warning are standard on the S base model. For standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic monitoring, you must get into the Outlander Sport SE or higher.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Both of Mitsubishi's subcompact SUVs manage to occupy the small end of the class. Front legroom is competitive but everywhere else in the Outlander Sport room is at a premium.
Technology
Four speakers, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a single front USB port are standard on the S base model. Next up, the LE gets a second front and rear USB outlets, larger 8.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and heated front seats. SE models are standard with six speakers, push-button start, and a universal garage door opener in its auto-dimming rearview mirror. SEL models score a power driver's seat.
Trim Levels and Prices
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is expected to be available in multiple trims this year: S, ES, LE, SE, Ralliart, and SEL (formerly GT). Furthermore, a Trail Edition has been announced—but this could be akin to a package (like Black Edition models with the standard Outlander) or it could even replace the Ralliart. Look for 2024 Outlander Sport pricing to start around $25,500 and rise to more than $30,500 for the SEL.
