2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Pros vs Cons

Built for a family of five, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport combines simplicity and and smart engineering. Built on a compact body, this versatile crossover SUV offers the All-Wheel Control with multiple driving modes for superb handling in any weather. Featuring rear parking sensors and a rearview camera, this small Mitsubishi model is easy to handle in the city. The signature Smartphone Link Display Audio console provides good value in digital technology.

What's New for 2022?

Adopting the same mechanical design from the previous year, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport doesn't have any noticeable changes to its capabilities. This compact crossover SUV is now available with the Special Edition labels for the SE and 2.4 GT models. These all-new editions simply get some minor exterior enhancements, such as signature exterior badges for distinctive appeal.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport – The Pros

1. Solid Light-Duty Performance

Built on the iconic MIVEC platform, the 2022 Outlander Sport's 2.0-liter engine block whips out a maximum of 148 horsepower. Running on regular fuel, this four-cylinder powerplant unleashes 145 pound-feet of peak torque. Also adopting the MIVEC design, the 2.4-L engine block delivers up to 168 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque. Made of lightweight aluminum, both engines on this compact crossover use a naturally aspirated induction system for all combustion phases. Incorporating the classic the Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design, the valvetrain operates precisely and efficiently during the intake and exhaust cycles.

2. Sporty and Nimble Handling

Standard on the 2022 Outlander Sport, the traditional continuously variable transmission system operates on a wide spectrum of gear ratios. This classic CVT system diverts torque to the default 2WD system or All-Wheel Control (AWC) system with the Drive Mode Selector. With a boost from the Active Control Logic, this compact Mitsubishi car quickly recovers from sudden swerving and other unpredictable movement on the road. Likewise, the Active Stability Control optimizes the linear and curved tracing of the wheels in real time. An electronic power steering (EPS) system gives the driver good mechanical leverage for controlling this lightweight crossover SUV on paved surfaces.

3. Great Fuel Economy

When equipped with a 2WD system and 2.0-L MIVEC engine, the 2022 Outlander Sport gets up to 24 MPG in the city per EPA projections. Such a configuration ensures a maximum fuel economy of 30 MPG on the highway. The AWC and base powertrain earn ratings of 23 MPG on urban roads and 29 MPG on highways. When equipped with the AWC and 2.4-L MIVEC engine, this two-row crossover SUV is rated at 23 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. Select models have a 16.6-gallon fuel tank that ensures a driving range of about 500 miles on paved roads.

4. Comfort For All Occupants

Standard inside the 2022 Outlander Sport, the Automatic Climate Control System keeps the front row at ideal temperatures throughout the year. The ATC is controlled by several large electronic dials that are conveniently positioned on the center stack for easy reach. Similarly, several electronic buttons control the heating settings for the first-row seats inside this small Mitsubishi car. Featuring micron air filtration, the powerful and highly responsive ATC system also diverts warm air to the rear heating ducts. Thanks to the power driver's window with an auto up/down design, the front row could be easily ventilated with some fresh air.

5. Modern Electronic Technologies

The 2022 Outlander Sport offers the optional Smartphone Link Display Audio System. Tilted at a slight angle for good visibility, the 8.0-inch touch screen shows crisp graphics in high quality. The signature SDA multimedia console offers seamless connections to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay for accessing plenty of popular mobile applications. Designed with smartphone users in mind, this compact Mitsubishi crossover SUV offers two USB ports in the first row and two USB ports in the second row. Compatible with the latest speech-recognition technology, Bluetooth 2.0 is readily accessible inside the cockpit.

6. Flashy Exterior

The 2022 Outlander Sport exits the assembly plant in highly alluring exterior colors, such as Red Diamond, Sunshine Orange and Octane Blue. Drivers seeking a more elegant finish could choose Oak Brown Metallic, Labrador Black or Mercury Gray. High-level trims have a front grille with Satin Silver and Gloss Black accents for distinctive contrast with the color of the body. A chrome side garnish, roof spoiler and black roof rails make strong styling statements on this small crossover SUV. Having a two-tone finish, 18-inch alloy wheels are installed on most models.

7. Convenience For Daily Driving

Synced with the 2022 Outlander Sport, the Remote Keyless Entry gives the driver extra convenience for accessing the cabin. High-level models include the signature FAST-KEY Entry System, which enables the push-button start functionality for the ignition system. This family-oriented crossover SUV comes standard with a multitude of other convenient installations, like the cargo tie-down hooks and a floor-mounted console box with an armrest. Thanks to rain-sensing front windshield wipers and heated outside mirrors, the driver will quickly adjust to precipitation and other harsh weather conditions. The rear privacy glass also creates a more soothing environment in the second row.

8. Robust Passive Safety Design

The 2022 Outlander Sport takes full advantage of the legendary Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution design for withstanding harsh impacts on the road. The proprietary RISE frame quickly diverts energy away from the front row to other parts of the body. Fitted with a total of seven air bags, including side-curtain air bags, this compact Mitsubishi crossover SUV shields the driver and all other passengers from forceful impacts. A knee air bag and an air bag below the dashboard provide a high level of protection for the driver. Additionally, this lightweight crossover SUV has head restraints on all five seats for mitigating whiplash and other neck injuries during a high-speed crash.

9. Accident-Mitigation Features

Standard on the 2022 Outlander Sport, the Forward Collision Mitigation could slam on the braking system when a crash seems imminent. The FCM includes the Pedestrian Detection design for preventing potential collisions with people in a crosswalk. This small Mitsubishi crossover SUV also has the default Lane Departure Warning that compares the driver's intentions with the actual movement of the wheels in real time. With supplemental guidance and intervention from the Lane Change Assist, the driver might avoid an impact with another automobile in a neighboring lane. Similarly, the Blind Spot Warning generates prompt notifications on possible conflicts with hard-to-see cars in other lanes.

10. Helpful Parking Technologies

Activated by default on the 2022 Outlander Sport, the Rearview Camera transfers real-time videos to the SDA monitor in the center stack. Shown in multiple colors for optimum contrast, virtual gridlines make it easy to align the rear wheels with the sidewalk or other points of references on the pavement. With feedback from the Rear Park Assist sensors, the driver will carefully park this compact Mitsubishi car. Backing up from a parking space won't be stressful thanks to notifications from the Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Additionally, the rear intermittent wipers enhance the driver's view of whatever is moving or standing behind the tailgate.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport – The Cons

1. Low-End Interior Design

Standard on entry-level 2022 Outlander Sport trims, the six-way driver's seat is covered in basic fabric. Having a simple black color, such a conventional material certainly doesn't embody any luxury or elegance. Even the combination soft-touch materials don't significantly enhance the overall interior design of high-level models. Also covered in black, the dashboard and other interior panels have a plastic-like appearance that certainly doesn't invoke a positive response. Additionally, the rectangular HVAC air vents and other electronic buttons on the dashboard seem outdated by today's standards.

2. Limited Second-Row and Cargo Space

This compact Mitsubishi crossover SUV only offers up to 36.3 inches of legroom in the second row. Three adults won't be too pleased with such limited space inside this light-duty family car. In accordance with SAE guidelines, the 2022 Outlander Sport only offers 97.5 cubic feet of interior volume for passengers. When the rear seats are in the normal upright configuration, the cargo capacity is 21.7 cubic feet. Therefore, families won't be able to pack a handful of suitcases, luggage and other bags for road trips inside this lightweight vehicle.

3. Harsh Ride at High Speeds

Having a registered curb weight of slightly more than 3,000 net pounds, the 2022 Outlander Sport doesn't offer a cushioned ride on the road. Families will most likely feel plenty of bumps and other unpleasant vibrations when navigating the highway at the posted speed limits. A conventional 60/40 weight distribution contributes to the harsh ride for passengers in the second row. Despite having a traditional stabilizer bar, the multi-link rear suspension system is partially responsible for the stiff ride in this lightweight Mitsubishi vehicle.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vs 2022 Hyundai Venue

Having a first-generation platform, the 2022 Hyundai Venue is a relatively new player on the compact crossover SUV market of the United States. Under the hood, the Venue has the 1.6-L Smartstream engine block that only makes 121 hp and 113 lb-ft. Running on the Continuously Variable Valve Timing, this four-cylinder powertrain lacks the capabilities of the MIVEC engine block. Available only with a front-wheel drive, the Venue lacks the all-weather capabilities of the Outlander Sport. Additionally, the Hyundai model doesn't have parking sensors for scanning the surroundings in real time.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vs 2022 Chevrolet Trax

A compact crossover SUV that's built for urban environments, the 2022 Chevy Trax runs on a six-speed automatic transmission system. Engineered for efficient driving, this conventional gearbox doesn't operate as smoothly as the Outlander Sport's standard CVT system. The Trax offers the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with a 7-inch monitor, which is smaller than the Mitsubishi's signature SDA.

Conclusion

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a viable choice for urban families seeking good fuel economy and reliable safety features. Available with two MIVEC engines, this compact crossover SUV performs fairly well for its lightweight platform. Additionally, the All-Wheel Control and Vehicle Dynamics Control optimize the vehicle's performance on dry, slippery or rough roads.