Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Gets More Power at a Price
Mitsubishi’s Outlander Sport isn’t known for being a sprightly small SUV. In her review of the 2014 model with its anemic 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder, Cars.com Assistant Managing Editor-News Jennifer Geiger says, “slow and loud are two Outlander Sport hallmarks.”
Related: 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Expert Review
For 2015, Mitsubishi is adding an optional 168-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. It makes 20 more horsepower than the 2.0-liter and at least provides a better chance the new Outlander Sport 2.4 ES and GT trim levels won’t have acceleration as leisurely as the 2.0-liter. The smaller engine sticks around as the Sport’s base engine for 2015. The new engine pairs exclusively with the continuously variable transmission and is available in front- or all-wheel drive. The 2.4-liter starts at $22,145, including an $850 destination fee.
The 2.4 ES trim level is a $1,700 upgrade over the ES with 2.0-liter, while the new GT 2.4 starts at $24,445 and includes additional features like a power driver’s seat, aluminum pedals and LED turn indicators. Outlander Sport 2.4 ES and GT trims are differentiated from 2.0-liter models by a black center bumper. An optional GT Premium Package adds a premium stereo, panoramic moonroof, LED mood lighting and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. A GT Touring Package adds leather seating and a navigation system with a 7-inch touch-screen.
The larger displacement engine with more power takes a fuel-economy hit compared to the 2.0-liter, as you’d expect. Front-wheel-drive 2.4-liter models are rated at 22/28/25 mpg city/highway/combined, while all-wheel-drive models are rated at 23/26/24 mpg. Each represents a significant 3 mpg decrease in combined ratings compared with equivalent 2.0-liter configurations.
The 2015 Outlander Sport with 2.4-liter engine goes on sale toward the end of February.
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