Used 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SUV Crossover Review & Ratings

Performance

One of the main selling points of the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is its fantastic fuel economy, as it returns 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Both trims are powered by the same 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that delivers 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. While this sure does not seem like much power, the front-wheel drive paired up with a manual transmission can accelerate zero to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds. However, choose the continuously variable transmission and acceleration turns into a very sleepy 10.3 seconds. All-wheel drive is optional on both trims, and surprisingly it does not really affect fuel economy very much. As for handling, it is certainly not the worst sport utility vehicle out there, but consumers should not be expecting too much. Although the ride is fairly smooth and pretty quiet, there is a ton of body roll while cornering. So, while you may want to drive this vehicle like a fun sedan, you will constantly be reminded that it is definitely not one!

Technology

• Audio - A 710-watt Rockford Fosgate® audio system includes nine speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer.
• FUSE - This hands-free link system uses advanced speech recognition. It links with Bluetooth-enabled phones, MP3 players and USB drives. Simply speak a voice command after you tap a button and you have full control.
• Navigation - An optional 40GB hard drive navigation system uses the 7-inch LCD touchscreen to provide driving directions, real-time traffic updates and more. It even includes a music server to store up to 3,000 songs.
• FAST-Key - This passive entry system allows you to unlock your door and start your vehicle without even taking your keys out of your pocket or purse.

Safety

When tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2013 Outlander Sport scored a “Good” rating in side and frontal-impact protection. Braking was average, taking 123 feet to stop from 60 mph. Airbags offer protection throughout the cabin, and there is even one at the driver’s knees to stop them from sliding under the dash in a collision. Other safety features include:
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Antilock brakes
• Whiplash protection system in front head restraints
• Emergency brakeforce distribution
• Traction control
• Rear door safety locks
• Front seatbelt pretensioners
• Stability control
• Emergency braking assist
• Engine immobilizer
• Rear view camera

Appearance

The 2013 Outlander Sport is definitely a good looking vehicle. It is sporty without looking like it’s trying too hard to be rugged, which is a good thing considering it’s not. A fierce grille, aerodynamic styling, attractive wheels, advanced polymer front fenders and rear roof spoiler all work together to create a truly dynamic look.

Comfort

The passenger cabin does not offer a lot to get excited about, but controls are thoughtfully placed and easy to identify and use without taking your eyes off the road for too long. Five passengers will appreciate comfortable seating to a certain degree. The seats are nice and supportive, and the driver is granted a nice position to have total command of the road, but a taller person will find head room to be lacking. Plus, taller passengers in the rear may wish for a little more leg room as well.

Cargo

Cargo space is limited, but considering it has a shorter wheelbase than the regular Outlander, it should be expected. Behind the rear seat there is 21.7 cubic feet, and with the seat down, there is 49.5 cubes.