What It Is
For many of us, that four-wheeled rig parked in the driveway is much more than a means of transportation. It’s also our kids’ mobile stroller, the family’s weekend shuttle and the always-at-the-ready delivery van.
Clearly, we need a vehicle that serves up equal parts comfort and utility, but we also want it to be efficient and sporty. Some would call that a tall order, one that Mitsubishi has done its best to address with the all-new 2011 Outlander Sport.
What’s New
Though Japanese drivers have already had a chance to take in all that is the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, the 2010 New York International Auto Show marked the crossover’s first foray onto American soil.
Aside from its identical nose and name, the 2011 Outlander Sport shares little with its big brother. There’s a smaller, more efficient engine under the hood, less overall length, and two rows of seating – no third-row option here.
Shoppers interested in the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport can select between two trims. Base versions carry ES nomenclature and are delivered with 16-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, cruise control, a nice array of power amenities, and a handy USB port.
Bump up to the Outlander Sport SE for added features like automatic climate control, a push-button ignition system, heated front seats, high-intensity discharge headlights, and more. Given the choice, we might go with this option simply because it comes with a sliding front center armrest.
All 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport models are decked out with seven airbags (including one for the driver’s knee), stability control and antilock brakes. Options include a Premium Package that tacks on a panoramic sunroof and a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, and the Navigation Package with its seven-inch screen, real-time traffic information and 40-gigabyte hard drive.
What’s Under the Hood
While it shares its name with Mitsubishi’s popular crossover, the 2011 Outback Sport actually borrows its powertrain from the brand’s entry-level sedan. Power for Mitsu’s newest offering comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual gearbox (ES and SE) or a continuously variable transmission with paddle shifters (SE only). A total of 148 horses is directed to either the front or all four wheels.
The EPA has not released official fuel economy figures for the 3,042-pound Outlander Sport, but Mitsubishi claims drivers will enjoy up to 31 mpg.
And, for you Ralliart fans, Mitsubishi wouldn’t confirm or deny the development of a racier version of the Outlander Sport, but there is an awful lot of extra room under the hood. Plenty for a turbocharger.
First Impressions
Mitsubishi is venturing into well-populated waters with the 2011 Outlander Sport, a model that will battle with rides like the Nissan Rogue and completely redesigned Hyundai Tucson (and, soon, the 2011 Kia Sportage).
The Nissan packs more power but less estimated fuel economy, while the Hyundai trumps both with 176 horsepower and up to 31 mpg on the highway.
The Outlander matches that last figure, albeit with nearly 30 fewer ponies under its hood. However, Mitsubishi just may level the playing field with superior handling. We’re looking forward to getting behind the wheel and determining that for ourselves.
So, fuel economy may not ultimately set the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport apart from the pack. Chances are that’ll be covered by the aggressive front-end styling and the available 710-watt sound system (Hyundai’s unit taps out at 360 watts). Ruptured eardrums, here we come.
When You Can Get One
Unfortunately, those of you who are lovin’ this cute ute will have to wait until October to take one home. Pricing has not been finalized, but we’re told the base sticker will come in under $19,000.
Mitsubishi expects the 2011 Outback Sport to become the company’s volume seller by the end of the year. That just might prove to be a reality, as the Outback Sport is already selling extremely well in Japan despite being on the market for only a few short months.
