2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a light-update year, not a redesign. The main change is revised tuning for the automatic transmission, intended to make it respond more quickly and operate more smoothly.
About the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
1st generation, second model year, before the 2013 styling refresh.
Mitsubishi positioned the Outlander Sport as a small 5-passenger crossover that mixed SUV ride height and cargo flexibility with a compact footprint that was easier to park and easier on fuel. Its main appeal was bold styling, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, solid standard safety hardware, and useful everyday features such as Bluetooth/USB voice control. Compared with many rivals at the time, it leaned more on sharp looks and a strong standard-feature list than on outright power or maximum cargo space.
The ES is the straightforward, value-focused trim, with a 148-hp four-cylinder engine, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, cruise control, and a folding rear seat. The better-equipped SE adds high-intensity-discharge headlights, automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, rain-sensing wipers, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
What changed, by category
2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Sportronic | Automatic, CVT w/Sportronic |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 148 hp | 148 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 145 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 49.5 cu-ft | 49.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 36.3 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| HID Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport a redesigned model?
No. The 2012 Outlander Sport remains in its first generation and receives only small running updates. The exterior styling refresh did not arrive until 2013.
What changed on the 2012 Outlander Sport’s automatic transmission?
The continuously variable automatic transmission received revised tuning for quicker response and smoother operation. Models using it also gained extra sound insulation to reduce cabin noise.
What changed on the 2012 Outlander Sport ES?
Automatic-transmission ES models received revised transmission tuning and added sound insulation. ES models with the manual transmission gained an upshift indicator.
What changed on the 2012 Outlander Sport SE?
The SE received revised automatic-transmission tuning, more sound insulation, a new 18-inch wheel design, and small chrome accents around the gauges and center console.
Did the 2012 Outlander Sport get new safety equipment?
No. The 2012 Outlander Sport had no meaningful lineup-wide safety-equipment change.