2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is rated as the Best Compact Crossover. This crossover is available in 7 exterior colors. It is packed with extra features, performance, and design. It is also available in ES, SE and SE (AWC) models.

Performance

The Outlander Sport is equipped with Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) I-4 engine with an engine displacement capacity of 2 liters. This engine delivers 148 HP and 145 pound-foot at of torque.

Its maximum fuel tank capacity is 16.6 gallons for ES and SE models and 15.8 gallons for SE (AWC) model. The suggested fuel type is Regular Unleaded. The engine’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) enhances fuel mileage and provides easier shifting.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior design of this crossover conforms to the Law of Aerodynamics. It reduces wind resistance and provides easier driving experience. The body of this crossover is specifically built in Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) structure. RISE improves the capability of the chassis to protect the passengers during collisions by applying additional reinforcements to its body and steel beams. This vehicle has a maximum height of 64.2 inches, a maximum length of 169.1 inches, and a maximum width of 69.7 inches. It has an optional rear spoiler and an optional fog lights. The halogen headlights are automatically controlled with an automatic-off feature. The headlamps are provided with automatic-off and automatic-on features.

It provides accommodation for a maximum of 5 passengers. Its interior has a volume capacity of 97.5 cubic feet. It is equipped with adjustable seats which can be controlled manually. The shift knob and the steering wheel are covered with leather. Its instrument panel has a Bluetooth technology capable of providing hands-free mobile phone communication. It is also equipped with a USB port capable of providing music playback. It has Rockford-Fosgate audio entertainment system supplied with 9 speakers. The instrument panel can also provide a navigation display system with an available memory of 40 gigabytes of hard disk drive capable of displaying traffic guidance, directions and location. It can also serve as a DVD player and a music player.

Safety

This vehicle offers safety by providing 7 airbags. A driver’s knee airbag is also introduced which protects the lower portion of the driver’s body during collisions. The seats are designed with head restraints and 3-point seatbelts combined with pre-tensioners for an additional security.

The children are also provided with a delicate security provided by Mitsubishi’s Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system. The LATCH system allows the toddler’s safety seat to be easily attached into the seats for safety purposes. The vehicle is also equipped with Hill Start Assist and Brake Assist. The safety feature also includes a system for monitoring the tire pressure.

The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has the lowest price scale compared with other crossovers of the same category. Its safety features offer more security and reliability. It also delivers the advantage of technology with its Bluetooth capability features and USB connectivity.

The Competition

Other vehicles worth looking at that are in the same class as the Outlander Sport are the Dodge Nitro Heat (MSRP $22,245; 16 city / 22 hwy), the Nissan Juke (MSRP $19,570; 27 city / 32 hwy), and the Hyundai Tucson (MSRP $21,995; 22 city / 31 hwy). All are priced slightly higher than the Outlander Sport but are worth looking at.

Pros & Cons

The major advantage of this vehicle is affordability. It is also equipped with several features for safety. Its body is designed for decreasing possible damages during collisions. Unfortunately, this vehicle provides smaller room for its cargo capacity. The available cargo volume behind the rear and front seats provides smaller rooms.

It has the lowest engine displacement. It also has the lowest amount of torque force and horsepower among its competitors. Although it lacks the powerful engine performance, it contains several efficient safety features and technology.

Overall Rating
65 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has an excellent layout, with comfortable seating and good versatility, but road noise and drab trim are serious blemishes.”Car Connection

“There is plenty of legroom for 6-footers. Headroom is generally fine, but the optional fixed-glass roof steals some of that. The seat is generally supportive but could use more padding for best comfort. The view out back and to the front and sides is good, though thick roof pillars pinch the view to the right rear. The available rearview camera helps here.”Consumer Guide

“The Outlander Sport is a chopped version of the small Outlander SUV, with reduced rear-seat and cargo space.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Aggressive styling; smooth, quiet ride; standard voice-activation system; affordable price.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Crossover SUV Base Price: $18,495.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (37854 liters) MPG: 25 city / 31 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 169.1 in. (429.5 cm) Width: 69.7 in. (177 cm)
Height: 64.2 in. (163 cm) Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm)
Curb Weight: 3032 lbs (1375 kg) Ground Clearance: 8.5 in. (21.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 21.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 2.0L MIVEC DOHC Inline 4 Displacement: 1998 cc
Horsepower: 148 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 145 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed CVT Sportronic®
0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Outlander Sport SE 2WD MSRP: $21,695; MPG: 25 city / 31 hwy
Option:Outlander Sport SE AWC MSRP: $22,995; MPG: 24 city / 29 hwy

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