2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: A Comprehensive Review
Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, a compact SUV that's been turning heads and sparking conversations. If you're in the market for a reliable and affordable ride, this might just be the one for you. In this comprehensive review, we’ll cover everything from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!
Overview of the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a compact SUV that offers a blend of practicality, affordability, and style. It's designed to appeal to a wide range of drivers, from young professionals to small families. One of its key strengths is its fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for daily commutes and long road trips. The Outlander Sport also boasts a comfortable interior and a decent list of standard features, ensuring a pleasant driving experience. However, like any vehicle, it has its pros and cons. We’ll explore these in detail, so you can make an informed decision.
Mitsubishi aimed to create a vehicle that stands out in the crowded compact SUV market. The 2017 Outlander Sport features a distinctive design, with sharp lines and a sporty stance. Inside, the cabin is well-laid-out, with user-friendly controls and ample space for passengers and cargo. Under the hood, you have a choice of engines, each offering a different balance of power and efficiency. Overall, the 2017 Outlander Sport is a well-rounded package that offers good value for money.
But what truly sets the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport apart? It's the combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and a comprehensive warranty. Mitsubishi's reputation for reliability also adds to its appeal. Of course, it’s not without its shortcomings. Some critics point to its engine performance as being somewhat lackluster, especially when fully loaded. The interior, while functional, may not have the premium feel of some competitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2017 Outlander Sport remains a compelling option in its class. Now, let's delve deeper into its specific aspects.
Performance and Engine Options
When it comes to performance, the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a couple of engine options to suit different driving preferences. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). For those seeking a bit more power, there's an available 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that bumps the output to 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively mated to a CVT.
The 2.0-liter engine is adequate for everyday driving, providing enough pep for city streets and highway cruising. However, it can feel a bit strained when accelerating quickly or climbing hills. The CVT, while smooth, can sometimes drone under hard acceleration. On the other hand, the 2.4-liter engine offers a noticeable improvement in performance. It provides more confident acceleration and makes the Outlander Sport feel more responsive overall. If you frequently carry passengers or cargo, the 2.4-liter engine is definitely the way to go. It offers a smoother, more confident driving experience.
Handling is decent, with the Outlander Sport feeling relatively stable and composed on the road. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. However, the suspension can be a bit firm, resulting in a somewhat bumpy ride on rough roads. Overall, the 2017 Outlander Sport isn't the sportiest SUV in its class, but it provides a comfortable and capable driving experience for most situations. Engine performance is adequate for urban environments and will handle long drives, as well. It's best for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a major selling point for the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. With the base 2.0-liter engine and CVT, it achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The manual transmission version offers slightly better fuel economy, with 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The more powerful 2.4-liter engine delivers similar fuel economy, with ratings of 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. These figures are quite competitive for the compact SUV segment, making the Outlander Sport an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Real-world fuel economy often varies depending on driving conditions and habits. However, many owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates. This means you can expect to save money at the pump compared to less fuel-efficient SUVs. The Outlander Sport's efficient engines and lightweight design contribute to its impressive fuel economy. Additionally, the CVT helps to optimize engine performance for maximum efficiency. For those who prioritize saving money on fuel, the 2017 Outlander Sport is a smart choice. It offers a great balance of affordability and efficiency.
To maximize fuel efficiency, try maintaining a steady speed, avoiding aggressive acceleration, and keeping your tires properly inflated. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and air filter replacements, can also help to improve fuel economy. With a little bit of effort, you can easily achieve the EPA-estimated numbers and save even more money on gas. Fuel efficiency is a significant advantage of the 2017 Outlander Sport, making it a practical and economical choice for daily driving.
Interior and Features
Stepping inside the interior of the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, you'll find a functional and well-laid-out cabin. The design is simple and straightforward, with user-friendly controls and a focus on practicality. While the interior may not have the premium feel of some competitors, it offers a comfortable and spacious environment for both driver and passengers. The seats are supportive, and there's ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear. The Outlander Sport also offers a decent amount of cargo space, making it suitable for carrying groceries, luggage, and other gear.
Standard features on the base ES trim include a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a four-speaker audio system. Higher trims add features such as a larger 6.1-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Available options include leather upholstery, a Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. However, some users may find the graphics and interface to be a bit dated.
Overall, the interior of the 2017 Outlander Sport is functional and comfortable, with a decent list of features for the price. It may not be the most luxurious SUV in its class, but it offers a practical and user-friendly environment for daily driving. The focus is on providing essential features and comfort without breaking the bank. This makes it a great option for those who prioritize value and practicality over premium amenities. It’s a comfortable, spacious, and practical interior.
Safety and Reliability
Safety and reliability are crucial factors when choosing a vehicle, and the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport performs reasonably well in these areas. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Outlander Sport an overall safety rating of four out of five stars. In individual crash tests, it earned four stars for frontal and side impacts and five stars for rollover protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the Outlander Sport good marks in several crash tests.
Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. Available safety features include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features can help to improve safety and prevent accidents. While the Outlander Sport doesn't offer the most advanced safety technology in its class, it provides a decent level of protection for its occupants.
In terms of reliability, Mitsubishi has a reputation for building dependable vehicles. The Outlander Sport has generally received positive reliability ratings from consumer organizations. However, some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission and electrical systems. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help to prevent these issues and keep your Outlander Sport running smoothly. Overall, the 2017 Outlander Sport offers a good balance of safety and reliability, making it a trustworthy choice for daily driving. It's a reliable and safe option for your family.
Overall Value and Conclusion
So, what's the final verdict on the overall value of the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport? It's a compact SUV that offers a compelling combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Its attractive starting price and low running costs make it a great option for budget-conscious buyers. The Outlander Sport also boasts a decent list of standard features and a comfortable interior, ensuring a pleasant driving experience.
While it may not be the most luxurious or powerful SUV in its class, it offers a good balance of features and performance for the price. The available 2.4-liter engine provides adequate power for most situations, and the fuel economy is competitive. The Outlander Sport also comes with a comprehensive warranty, giving you peace of mind and protecting you from unexpected repair costs. This adds to its overall value proposition.
In conclusion, the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable compact SUV. It's a practical and economical option for daily commutes, family trips, and everything in between. If you're looking for a vehicle that offers good value for money, the 2017 Outlander Sport is definitely worth considering. It’s a reliable and budget-friendly SUV.
