2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Review: Affordable AWD With Compromises

What's New for 2025?

The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport carries over with minimal changes, continuing its 14-year production run with only incremental updates. The Trail Edition that debuted last year has been discontinued, while a rear-seat alert system becomes standard across all trims - a welcome safety addition for families.

Pricing and Value Proposition

Starting at $25,530 (including destination), the Outlander Sport undercuts most AWD competitors by several thousand dollars. Here's the complete pricing structure:

All prices include the $1,595 destination charge and $190 Welcome Package (owner's manuals, floor mats, and touch-up paint). When cross-shopping, consider that many competitors offer more standard features at similar price points after accounting for available incentives.

Trim Level Breakdown

Outlander Sport S (Base Model)

The entry-level S trim offers minimal frills:

• 16-inch steel wheels
• Manual adjustable front seats
• Basic cloth upholstery
• 7-inch infotainment display
• 4-speaker audio system

Surprisingly, Mitsubishi includes LED lighting, automatic climate control, and rain-sensing wipers even on this base model.

Outlander Sport ES

Stepping up to the ES adds:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED fog lights
• More color options (6 exterior choices)
• Choice of black or gray interior

Outlander Sport LE

The LE trim introduces more premium touches:

• Black side mirrors and wheels
• Red contrast stitching
• Heated front seats
• Upgraded 8-inch touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Outlander Sport SE

The SE focuses on safety enhancements:

• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane change assist
• Push-button start
• Upgraded speaker system

Outlander Sport SEL (Top Trim)

The range-topping SEL includes:

• 2.4L engine (vs 2.0L in other trims)
• Power-adjustable driver's seat
• Premium black leather upholstery
• Additional sound insulation
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Safety Technology Assessment

The Outlander Sport's safety suite reflects its budget positioning:

Notably absent are adaptive cruise control, lane centering, or any semi-autonomous driving features that are becoming common even in this price segment.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Outlander Sport offers two engine choices:

2.0L 4-cylinder (S, ES, LE, SE trims)

• 148 horsepower
• 145 lb-ft torque
• 23/29/26 mpg city/highway/combined

2.4L 4-cylinder (SEL trim only)

• 168 horsepower
• 167 lb-ft torque
• 23/28/25 mpg city/highway/combined

All models come exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. The powertrain prioritizes fuel efficiency over performance, with acceleration that feels sluggish compared to newer turbocharged competitors.

Competitive Landscape

While the Outlander Sport wins on price, consider these alternatives:

Subaru Crosstrek

Starting around $2,000 more but offers:

• Superior AWD system
• More modern platform
• Better resale value

Kia Seltos

Comparably priced with:

• More powerful turbo option
• Longer warranty
• Contemporary tech features

Nissan Kicks

Front-wheel drive only but:

• Lower starting price
• Superior fuel economy
• More cargo space

Ownership Considerations

Warranty Coverage

Mitsubishi's warranty remains competitive:

• 5-year/60,000-mile basic
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain
• 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion
• 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance
  
  

Maintenance Costs

Projected to be below average for the segment, with simple mechanicals and widespread parts availability contributing to affordable upkeep.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport makes the most sense for:

• Budget-focused buyers who prioritize AWD capability above all else
• Urban dwellers needing compact dimensions
• Secondary vehicles where advanced features aren't critical

More discerning shoppers should test drive competitors like the Subaru Crosstrek or Kia Seltos, which offer more contemporary designs and better driving dynamics for marginally higher prices. While the Outlander Sport delivers on its promise of affordable all-wheel-drive transportation, it feels increasingly outdated in a rapidly evolving market segment.
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