“The se model has the touch screen that is larger and easy to read. The options on the heated seats. Also the rise and tilt features for adjusting your steering wheel. The smooth driving and back up camera are amazing”
2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
For 2018, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport gets a light mid-cycle refresh led by revised styling, an updated cabin, and touchscreen audio across the lineup. It is an update to the existing generation, not a full redesign.
About the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
1st generation Outlander Sport (2011-2020 in the U.S.), late-cycle refresh year with updated styling, cabin revisions, and broader infotainment upgrades.
Mitsubishi positions the Outlander Sport as a small crossover built around value, reliability, available all-wheel capability, and a strong warranty rather than class-leading space or performance. In this period, the brand’s messaging centers on giving shoppers a city-friendly SUV shape with useful safety features, simple controls, and everyday comfort at an accessible entry point. Its main appeal is straightforward utility with available smartphone tech and winter-friendly traction in a compact footprint.
The ES remains the straightforward base trim, while the LE adds a sportier look, heated seats, and smartphone integration. The SE pairs the stronger 2.4-liter engine with added convenience features, and the top SEL adds leather upholstery, a power driver’s seat, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are fitted to LE, SE, and SEL models.
What changed, by category
Styling
The front grille and rear trim were revised. Inside, a redesigned center console brought a new shift lever and USB layout.
Tech
A touchscreen audio display became standard on every trim. SE and SEL gained Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and dual USB ports.
Powertrain
The 2.4-liter SE and SEL switched to Mitsubishi’s newer CVT8 automatic transmission.
Lineup
The late-2017 Limited Edition concept became the regular LE trim, the GT was dropped, and SEL gained a Touring Package.
2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Sportronic | Automatic, CVT w/Sportronic | Automatic, CVT w/Sportronic | Automatic, CVT w/Sportronic |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 24 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 30 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 148 hp | 148 hp | 168 hp | 168 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 145 lb-ft | 167 lb-ft | 167 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 49.5 cu-ft | 49.5 cu-ft | 49.5 cu-ft | 49.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 36.3 in | 36.3 in | 36.3 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport a full redesign?
No. The 2018 Outlander Sport is a light mid-cycle refresh of the existing generation, with revised exterior details, a redesigned center console, and broader touchscreen availability.
Does the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, LE, SE, and SEL models have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The ES has a 7-inch touchscreen audio system but not those smartphone-integration features.
What changed mechanically on the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
The 2.4-liter SE and SEL switched to Mitsubishi’s newer CVT8 automatic transmission. The ES and LE retain the smaller 2.0-liter engine.
How did the 2018 Outlander Sport trim lineup change?
The LE became a regular trim after appearing as a late-2017 special edition, the GT was dropped, and the SEL gained a Touring Package.
What does the 2018 Outlander Sport add over the 2017 model?
The 2018 model adds refreshed front and rear styling, a redesigned center console, and touchscreen audio on every trim. SE and SEL also gain Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual USB ports, and the newer CVT8 automatic.
2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.
3.9
2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
(152 reviews)
“It's a very comfortable car to drive. Even on the test drive it immediately felt comfortable, not awkward like I usually feel the 1st time driving a vehicle other than my own. I also like the many safety features, and since I do a lot of driving, the good gas mileage.”
“The sport is super fun to drive. It can zoom corners and have room for multiple animals.”