(2.0L 4-cyl. 5-speed Manual)
What our ratings include
Driver:
Date Driven: 7/20/2010
Performance
148 horsepower isn't going to overwhelm anyone, but with the five-speed manual transmission, it's peppy enough for around town and even its 8.8-second run to 60 mph isn't terrible.
Driving Dynamics
The Outlander Sport is like most CUVs where the tuning is for comfort and ride height: It doesn't turn or stop particularly well, but the electronic power steering has good feedback and the ESC is well tuned.
Ride Comfort
Ride comfort is very good here. The suspension is floating and large bumps are isolated and unintrusive.
Quietness
While the engine spins 3,000 rpm at 70 mph, there is precious little intrusion into the cabin. Road noise is minimal and wind noise almost nonexistent. Very good.
Ergonomics
There are some obstacles to overcome with Mitsubishi's gauge cluster and nav system. HVAC knobs are clear and easy.
Visibility
Along with quietness and ride comfort, Mitsubishi hit the mark here. The Outlander Sport is a small vehicle with very good sightlines.
Seat Access & Space
Nothing remarkable either way, here. Rear-seat room is limited, and rear step-in can be difficult. Rear headroom is tight for taller passengers.
Cargo & Storage
Smaller than virtually all of its competitors, the 49.5 max cubic feet of space is just enough while the 21.7 cu-ft with the seats up is barely acceptable.
Build Quality
Even with the soft-touch additions to the dash cowl, armrests and dash, the Outlander is still a generation behind the rest insofar as build goes. Subpar materials and inconsistent gaps. Easily this vehicle's biggest weakness.
