“The vehicle is a good asset to me and my family. The only thing I don't like is it has Bluetooth and no CD player. Radio yes. The price was right and the rating was excellent.”
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a small five-seat SUV known for its city-friendly size, higher seating position, useful cargo flexibility, and straightforward controls. Models from 2023 onward come with standard all-wheel drive.
Since its 2011 U.S. debut, the Outlander Sport has been the smaller, simpler SUV below the Outlander. Its long-running formula centers on easy maneuverability, practical space, and an outdoorsy look rather than cutting-edge cabin technology. Styling, safety, and convenience features have improved over time, while the basic size and purpose have stayed familiar.
Strengths
- Its compact footprint makes it easy to maneuver through city traffic and tight parking areas.
- All-wheel drive has been standard on every trim since 2023, adding useful traction in poor weather.
- The upright seating position gives drivers the raised view many people want from an SUV.
- The 2026 model provides 49.5 cubic feet of cargo space, giving it useful flexibility for errands and everyday gear.
- Its familiar controls are approachable for drivers who do not want a screen-heavy interior.
- Models from 2021 onward include forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams across the lineup.
Who it's for
It suits commuters, small households, and first-time SUV shoppers who want something easy to place in traffic and parking lots. It is especially relevant for drivers who face snow, rain, or rough roads and value standard all-wheel drive on 2023 and newer models. It also fits used-car shoppers who prefer familiar controls over a screen-heavy cabin.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport lineup
The S and ES are the straightforward entry points, with the S serving as the base trim and the ES keeping the focus on the Outlander Sport’s basic practicality. The LE adds a sportier, blacked-out personality, while the SE has traditionally been the step up for more cabin convenience and upgraded materials. The SEL sits at the top of recent lineups and is the one to pick for the larger 2.4-liter engine. In recent years, RALLIART and Trail Edition models have added rally- or trail-themed styling for shoppers who want a more distinctive look rather than a fundamentally different SUV.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport generations
From 2011 to 2026, the Outlander Sport spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2011.
1st Generation (2011–Present)
The Outlander Sport launched as a small five-seat SUV with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and front- or four-wheel drive. It has kept the same basic structure throughout its U.S. run, with several styling and cabin updates, a later 2.4-liter engine, and standard all-wheel drive from 2023 onward.
167 In Stock
2026Trim changes
The lineup carries over with standard all-wheel drive, 2.0- and 2.4-liter engines, and the Trail Edition.
2025Trim changes
Rear Seat Alert becomes standard across the lineup.
2024Trim changes
The Trail Edition debuts with trail-themed graphics and black trim, while the former GT is renamed SEL.
2023Trim changes
The rally-themed RALLIART special edition debuts, and all-wheel drive becomes standard on every trim.
2022Trim changes
Two Special Edition trims join the lineup. SE and GT receive upgraded seating, and upper trims gain rear USB ports.
2021New generation
The LE trim joins the lineup. Collision warning with automatic braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams become standard across the range.
2020Mid-cycle update
A major refresh brings a new front end, a reshaped rear bumper, updated cabin trim, and standard LED exterior lighting. The manual transmission is dropped.
2019Trim changes
A new GT trim pairs the 2.4-liter engine with a broader set of driver-assistance features.
2018Mid-cycle update
Revised exterior styling, a redesigned center console, and a touchscreen on every trim mark this light refresh.
2017Trim changes
The LE trim joins during the model year. Automatic climate control becomes standard across the lineup.
2016Mid-cycle update
A styling refresh brings a new front-end design, updated wheel-arch trim, revised wheels, and cabin changes. The SEL trim also joins the range.
2015Trim changes
New 2.4 ES and 2.4 GT models introduce a 168-horsepower 2.4-liter engine. Automatic models also receive revised transmission tuning.
2014Trim changes
Added sound insulation, a redesigned steering wheel, and equipment updates improve cabin comfort and usability.
2013Mid-cycle update
A mild refresh revises the front and rear styling, cabin materials, suspension, steering, and automatic transmission tuning.
2012
Automatic models receive added sound insulation and revised transmission tuning, along with minor equipment updates.
2011New generation
The Outlander Sport launches in the U.S. as a new compact five-seat SUV with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.
2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport the same SUV as the Outlander?
No. The Outlander Sport is the smaller five-seat SUV. It was introduced below the larger Outlander and is aimed at shoppers who want easier city maneuvering, a higher seating position, and flexible cargo space in a compact package.
What is the Outlander Sport known for?
The Outlander Sport is known for its city-friendly size, straightforward controls, useful cargo flexibility, and rugged-looking design. Newer models also make all-wheel drive standard, giving shoppers built-in traction without moving to a larger SUV.
Who is the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport a good fit for?
It suits someone who wants a small, easy-to-park SUV with five seats, a higher driving position, and added bad-weather traction. It also fits shoppers who prefer familiar controls and simple packaging over a cabin centered on large, flashy screens.
How much passenger and cargo room does the Outlander Sport have?
The Outlander Sport seats five. In the latest version, it has 36.3 inches of rear legroom and up to 49.5 cubic feet of cargo space, making it useful for everyday errands while remaining compact enough for city driving.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport a hybrid?
No. The Outlander Sport uses gasoline engines rather than a hybrid system. Most newer trims have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the top SEL uses a stronger 2.4-liter four-cylinder.
Does every Outlander Sport have all-wheel drive?
No, not across its entire history. All-wheel drive became standard on every trim for 2023. Earlier used examples include both two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, so check the specific vehicle rather than relying only on the trim name.
Has the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport been redesigned?
The U.S. Outlander Sport has remained in the same generation since its 2011 debut. Mitsubishi updated its styling and equipment several times, including a major front-end refresh for 2020, but those changes did not create a new generation.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Reviews
What owners are saying about the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.
4.0
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
(1,461 reviews)
“Love the 4WD and high clearance, hate that there's no rear climate control. Front climate controls aren't intuitive which makes me look down too often.”
“The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is a beautiful, stylish, and great looking SUV for the value and the features available. I love the security features and safety features and I really love my heated seats. It is fun to drive and it feels very sturdy and safe for my family. I am proud of our new car.”
“Great for transporting friends and family, roomy and comfortable. A good car for going long distance and traveling out of state.”
“Absolutely worth it. I don't have really anything negative to say about the Outlander Sport at all. Has made travel for work or leisure so much more comfortable and I save money on gas with amazing mpg.”
“Well engineered everyday vehicle Fun to drive Stylish Beats all other competitors on overall value Best kept secret on the road today.”