2027 Mitsubishi Outlander SportMotorTrendLow starting priceSmall, city-friendly footprintLong warranty coverageVery datedWeak accelerationRivals feel more modernThe Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is one of the oldest designs in the subcompact SUV class, but its mission remains simple: offer small-SUV practicality at a low price. For 2027, the return of front-wheel drive should make it even more affordable, though this long-running model still feels more like a budget-minded stopgap than a fresh rival to newer competitors.AdvertisementAdvertisementSome of those rivals include the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Mazda CX-30.What's NewThe Outlander Sport carries over for 2027 with one notable change: front-wheel drive returns to the aging subcompact SUV's lineup, lowering the base price compared with the AWD-only 2026 model.Although Mitsubishi gave the Outlander Sport a refresh for 2020, it has not received a full redesign since its 2011 debut. The model's most recent updates came for 2024, when Mitsubishi added the Trail Edition, a new SEL trim, free limited maintenance, and a rear-seat alert.This page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.What We ThinkThe Outlander Sport remains easy to understand but hard to recommend. Its small footprint, low price, long warranty, and newly returned front-wheel-drive base model give it some appeal as an inexpensive city runabout, but it's still one of the oldest SUVs in its class, and the 2027 model does little to hide its age.AdvertisementAdvertisementWe like that the Outlander Sport is maneuverable, straightforward, and relatively affordable, especially now that buyers no longer need to pay for all-wheel drive just to get in the door. The Trail Edition also gives the lineup a little extra personality, even if its rugged touches are mostly cosmetic.Unfortunately, the Outlander Sport trails newer subcompact SUVs in most of the ways that matter. Its cabin feels dated, lower trims are light on features, fuel economy is merely average, and safety ratings have not been as strong as key rivals. Shoppers considering a Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, or Nissan Kicks will likely find more modern design, better technology, or stronger overall value.The Outlander Sport still works as basic, affordable transportation with a small-SUV shape. But unless price, warranty coverage, or Mitsubishi loyalty are top priorities, most buyers will be better served by a newer competitor.Top-Ranked Competitors:Honda HR-VToyota Corolla CrossMazda CX-30MotorTrend TestedLower trims of the 2027 Outlander Sport are expected to continue with a 2.0-liter inline-four developing 148 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, while higher trims upgrade to a 2.4-liter engine rated at 168 hp and 167 lb-ft. Both pair with a CVT automatic. After being dropped for the 2023 model year, front-wheel drive returns for 2027, with all-wheel drive now optional.AdvertisementAdvertisementDon't expect much urgency from either powertrain. It's been a few years since we last tested the Outlander Sport, but its previous results were underwhelming: A 2018 model with the larger 2.4-liter engine reached 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, and a 2015 Outlander Sport with the smaller 2.0-liter needed 9.0 seconds.That said, the Mitsubishi is not alone in being slow. The Honda HR-V comes with a single 2.0-liter inline-four producing 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque, also paired with a CVT. In testing, an AWD-equipped HR-V took a leisurely 9.8 seconds to reach 60 mph. Even so, newer rivals tend to feel more refined and better sorted than the aging Outlander Sport, which remains more focused on basic transportation than driving enjoyment.MPGs and RangeThe 2027 Outlander Sport's fuel economy should be similar to the 2026 model. With the 2.0-liter engine, expect about 23/29 mpg city/highway and an estimated 411 miles of range. The larger 2.4-liter engine is slightly thirstier at 23/28 mpg, with range dropping to about 395 miles.The HR-V is more efficient but doesn't travel as far on a full tank. For 2027, the HR-V is rated at 26/32 mpg with FWD and 25/30 mpg with AWD, with estimated ranges of 392 and 378 miles, respectively. That gives the Mitsubishi an advantage in driving range, but the Honda should cost less to fuel day to day.Safety Ratings and FeaturesThis Outlander Sport receives an overall safety rating of four star out of five from NHTSA. It also has not been fully tested by IIHS. Driver assist features include:AdvertisementAdvertisementLane keepingAutomatic emergency brakingAutomaitc head lightsAutomatic high-beamsRain-sensing wipersCargo Space and Interior RoomThe little Outlander Sport seats five and offers legroom that's nearly identical to the Mazda CX-30's. The Mitsubishi has an advantage over the Mazda in cargo space behind the rear seats, but the Honda HR-V offers more room than both competitors with the rear seats up or folded.TechnologyInfotainmentEvery Outlander Sport now comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, as Mitsubishi has discontinued the old 7.0-inch interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the lineup, giving even base models the smartphone integration shoppers now expect.A front USB port is also included, but the setup is still fairly basic compared with newer subcompact SUVs that offer larger screens, wireless connectivity, or more advanced infotainment features.Sound SystemThe base setup comes with four speakers, but most models feature a six-speaker system.Available UpgradesCabin niceties include a power driver's seat, heated front seats, pushbutton start, and additional USB ports.ValueStandard FeaturesAssuming prices don't climb much for 2027, the Outlander Sport should remain one of the more affordable ways into a small SUV. Its tidy dimensions make it easy to maneuver in the city, and its fuel economy is acceptable for the class. Still, shoppers may need to move above the base trim to get the features they want.
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