2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The 2021 Outlander Sport starts at $22,190 (all prices include destination) for the S trim, which is the only model available exclusively as front-wheel drive. Flagship GT AWC models are available solely with all-wheel drive, costing $28,190. In between, there are four other trims (ES, LE, BE, and SE) with modest price and specification differences between them; adding AWD to any trim increases its sticker price by $1,550.

The standard engine in an Outlander Sport is a two-liter four-cylinder gas engine, generating 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. This is supplied to either the front or all four wheels through a seven-speed CVT transmission with manual override.

Two-wheel drive models return an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 miles per gallon city, 30 mpg highway, and 27 combined, and this figure drops to 23/29/26 MPG in AWD guise.

GT models are powered by a bigger 2.4-liter gas engine with increased output of 168 hp and 167 lb-ft. Fuel economy drops to 23/29/25 MPG in FWD configurations, and 23/28/25 MPG in AWD models.

Cargo capacity for the five-seater Outlander Sport stands at 21.7 cu ft with the rear seats in place, and 49.5 cu ft once they’re dropped.

The Outlander Sport’s safety credentials have been boosted for 2021 with the introduction of lane departure warning, forward collision mitigation, and automatic high beam across the range.

Every model benefits from seven airbags, stability control with hill start assist, and brake force distribution. However, only ES trim and above receive rain-sensing wipers, automatic lights, and an auto-dimming mirror.

There’s a two-tier infotainment hierarchy in Outlander Sport models. S and ES trims make do with a seven-inch display and a solitary USB port, whereas LE models and above receive a larger eight-inch screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay alongside dual device ports. HD radio is standard across the range, but LE and above also get satellite radio. The rather paltry four-speaker audio system fitted to most trims is upgraded to six speakers in SE and GT.

Given its price, you wouldn’t expect S models to be lavishly equipped, and cost-cutting is evident in the basic infotainment system.

However, even the most affordable Outlander Sport receives cruise and climate control, rear heater ducts, and remote keyless entry. Also standard are power windows, LED daytime running lights, and rear privacy glass.

There are no upgrades or packages available on any Outlander Sport model.

The only additions to ES models include LED fog lights, and 18-inch two-tone alloys on all-season tires, replacing the 16-inch steel wheels found on S models.

AWD versions also receive a drive selector shift knob, but it’s hard to see why this model commands a $2,000 premium over S trim.

With black grille accents and side mirrors complementing black alloy wheels, LE models also sport a Limited Edition badge. This is the first trim to receive black seat fabric with red stitching, while the front seats are heated; leather adorns the steering wheel and shift knob.

More significantly, LE models are the first to receive a larger eight-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and satellite radio, while voice recognition is also standard.

Based on LE spec, Black Edition’s distinguishing features are all aesthetic, from black and red bumper garnishes and alloy wheels to body graphics, a roof spoiler and gloss black tailgate protector trim. The cabin also receives a black headliner and a leather-wrapped parking brake lever.

Also based on LE trim, a key upgrade on SE models involves blind-spot warning with lane change assistance, plus a rear cross-traffic alert. Keyless entry and push-button start come as standard, while the audio system receives an extra pair of speakers.

There are body-colored power-folding side mirrors with turn indicators and matching outer door handles, chrome side garnish, and two-tone alloy wheels.

With a more powerful 2.4-liter engine and standard AWD, GT trim is something of an outlier in the Outlander Sport range. It’s the only model to receive soft-touch seating and a Homelink-equipped auto-dimming rearview mirror, though its cabin specification is otherwise identical to SE.

Compare Outlander Sport Trims Side-By-Side