2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Overview

Navigating the compact SUV market can feel like a maze, with countless options vying for your attention. Are you searching for a vehicle that balances practicality, value, and a touch of sporty flair without breaking the bank? If so, the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Overview is precisely what you need. This comprehensive guide will cut through the noise, providing a clear, informational look at what makes this crossover tick, from its refreshed styling to its everyday performance and safety features.

Unpacking the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Overview

The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, a subcompact SUV, carries forward the significant exterior refresh it received in the 2020 model year, maintaining its distinct road presence. While some critics point to its aging platform, Mitsubishi has focused on enhancing its value proposition for 2021 by integrating more standard safety features and amenities across the lineup. But what exactly does this mean for you as a driver or a prospective owner? Let's dive into the specifics.

Exterior Design: A Sporty Stance

Mitsubishi aimed for an aggressive and sporty look with the Outlander Sport, and for 2021, it continues to deliver on that aesthetic. The vehicle retains its restyled front and rear elements, contributing to a modern facade. Standard exterior features across all trims include automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED tail lights.

For those who appreciate attention to detail, the LE trim introduces black 18-inch wheels, a black grille, and black door mirrors, giving it a more assertive appearance. The base S trim comes with 16-inch wheels, while the ES upgrades to 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels. Heated exterior mirrors and rain-sensing windshield wipers are also standard, enhancing convenience in varying weather conditions.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Practicality Meets Connectivity

Step inside the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, and you'll find a cabin designed with practicality in mind. Standard features across the range include automatic climate control, a 6-way adjustable driver's seat, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, offering flexibility for both passengers and cargo. While the front seats aren't power-adjustable, even on the top GT trim, higher trims like the GT do feature upscale suede-style upholstery with contrast stitching, adding a touch of refinement.

When it comes to technology, the Outlander Sport offers a tiered approach. Lower trims are equipped with a 7-inch display audio system, providing essential connectivity. However, most trim levels, including the LE, SE, and GT, boast an 8-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) unit that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity for navigation, music, and more. Additional convenience features on higher trims include push-button start and a FAST-Key Passive-entry system.

Performance and Engine Options: Finding Your Drive

Under the hood, the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers two engine choices, both paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT):

• Standard 2.0-liter MIVEC Four-Cylinder: This engine produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It's designed for efficiency and adequate performance for daily commuting.
• Optional 2.4-liter MIVEC Four-Cylinder: Available exclusively on the top-tier GT trim, this more powerful engine delivers 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque. If you're looking for a bit more pep, especially at highway speeds, this is the engine to consider. It has been tested to go from 0 to 60 mph in 8.0 seconds.

Front-wheel drive (2WD) is standard on most trims, providing nimble handling, while Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system is available as an option and comes standard on the GT trim. This intelligent AWC system continuously monitors road conditions and distributes power to the wheels as needed, offering enhanced traction and confidence, especially in adverse weather.

Fuel Economy: Efficiency on the Road

Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many SUV buyers, and the 2021 Outlander Sport offers competitive, though not class-leading, figures:

• 2.0L FWD: Achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, for a combined 27 mpg.
• 2.0L AWC: Slightly less efficient at 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined.
• 2.4L AWC (GT): Rated at 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined.

While these numbers might not set new benchmarks, they represent a reasonable balance for a vehicle in its class, especially when considering the available all-wheel-drive capability.

Safety Features: Prioritizing Your Peace of Mind

One of the most significant updates for the 2021 Outlander Sport is the expansion of its standard safety features across all trim levels. Mitsubishi has made a concerted effort to enhance driver confidence, which is a big win for consumers. Every 2021 Outlander Sport now comes equipped with:

• Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with Pedestrian Detection: This system warns you of potential frontal collisions and can even apply the brakes automatically if you don't react in time.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without an activated turn signal.
• Automatic High Beams (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic and ambient light.

Beyond these standard features, available safety technologies include Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), further assisting drivers in challenging situations like changing lanes or backing out of parking spots.

In terms of crash test ratings, the 2021 Outlander Sport received a four-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While it wasn't named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), it did perform well in certain tests, with the front crash prevention system avoiding collisions in 12 mph and 25 mph vehicle-to-vehicle tests.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding Your Fit

The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is offered in several trim levels, allowing buyers to choose the right balance of features and price:

• S: The base trim, offering essential features and a budget-friendly entry point.
• ES: Adds more standard amenities, including 18-inch alloy wheels.
• LE (Limited Edition): Features unique styling elements like black wheels and red interior stitching.
• SE: Steps up with additional comfort and convenience features.
• BE (Black Edition): A stylish option with gloss black and red exterior accents.
• GT: The top-tier trim, which includes the more powerful 2.4-liter engine, standard All-Wheel Control, and premium interior appointments.

Starting prices for the 2021 Outlander Sport begin around $20,995 for the S trim, while the fully-loaded GT 2.4 AWC CVT is priced around $26,995. For many, the GT trim represents a strong value, considering the performance boost and standard AWD for a relatively small increase in cost.

The Driving Experience: What to Expect

The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport aims to provide a comfortable and stable ride, especially at cruising speeds. Its continuously variable transmission (CVT) is designed for smooth acceleration, though some drivers might find the initial low-speed response less immediate. The vehicle's stable feel can make it seem larger than its subcompact dimensions suggest, and its light steering and tight turning radius make it well-suited for city driving and parking maneuvers.

While it might not be the most dynamic performer in its class, its available All-Wheel Control system provides a significant advantage for those who encounter varied driving conditions, from slippery roads to light off-road paths.

Conclusion: Is the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Right for You?

The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a compelling package for those seeking a practical, value-oriented subcompact SUV. With its distinctive styling, expanded list of standard safety features, and available All-Wheel Control, it presents a solid choice for daily commuting, small families, or individuals looking for a versatile vehicle. While its engines may not be the most potent in the segment, and the interior might feel a bit dated compared to newer rivals, its competitive pricing and comprehensive warranty make it a worthy contender.

Are you considering the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport for your next vehicle? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Or, if you're exploring other options, check out our related article on "Top Compact SUVs for Urban Driving."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the main engine options for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

A1: The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport primarily offers two engine options: a standard 2.0-liter MIVEC four-cylinder producing 148 horsepower, and an optional 2.4-liter MIVEC four-cylinder, available on the GT trim, which generates 168 horsepower.

Q2: Does the 2021 Outlander Sport come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

A2: Yes, most trim levels of the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, including the LE, SE, and GT, come standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Lower trims feature a 7-inch display without these smartphone integration features.

Q3: What standard safety features are included in all 2021 Outlander Sport models?

A3: For 2021, all Mitsubishi Outlander Sport models include Forward Collision Mitigation with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning, and Automatic High Beams as standard safety equipment.

Q4: How much cargo space does the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offer?

A4: The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport provides a respectable 21.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. When the 60/40 split-folding rear seats are folded down, the cargo area expands significantly to 49.5 cubic feet.