26 MPG combined isn’t going to set any records, but it’s a perfectly acceptable figure for the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 4WD with its 2.0L engine. This vehicle is designed to be affordable, reliable, and capable in various conditions. Fuel efficiency, while important, is less important than its accessible price point and available all-wheel drive, appealing primarily to budget-conscious buyers who need a small SUV that can handle snowy roads or light off-roading.

City and highway performance

The Outlander Sport 4WD achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the relatively small 2.0L engine works harder to accelerate the vehicle’s mass. The highway MPG demonstrates that the Outlander Sport 4WD can maintain decent efficiency at steady speeds, making it suitable for longer commutes or road trips, although longer trips may require frequent stops to refuel.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 4WD at $1,700. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Individual costs may vary depending on driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of fuel used. This is a benchmark to compare running costs against other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized estimates, real-world fuel economy for the Outlander Sport 4WD can change. Aggressive driving, frequent hard acceleration and braking, will negatively impact MPG. Likewise, sustained high speeds on the highway, especially with a loaded vehicle, will decrease efficiency. Expect to see figures closer to the EPA estimates with a smooth, consistent driving style and properly maintained tires. Off-road driving will significantly decrease your MPG due to the increased drag and higher engine load.

How it compares

The Honda HR-V, another popular subcompact SUV, achieves 28 MPG combined in its AWD configuration. The Subaru Crosstrek, known for its standard all-wheel drive, manages around 27 MPG combined. The Nissan Kicks, front-wheel drive only, boasts a significantly higher 31 MPG combined due to its lighter weight and focus on maximizing economy. The Outlander Sport’s 26 MPG trails some competitors, but it remains competitive within the segment, particularly for buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and affordability over class-leading fuel efficiency. You can see all Mitsubishi fuel economy data including the OUTLANDER MPG across all years on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Outlander Sport features an automatic transmission that can benefit from mindful acceleration. Avoid stomping on the gas pedal, as this forces the transmission to downshift frequently, consuming more fuel. Accelerate smoothly and progressively to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain your tires at the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder, reducing MPG by as much as 3%. Properly inflated tires also contribute to improved handling and tire life.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or tools, as extra weight increases fuel consumption. Every 100 pounds of extra weight can reduce fuel economy by up to 1%.

Plan your routes to avoid heavy traffic. Stop-and-go driving consumes significantly more fuel than cruising at a steady speed. Use navigation apps to identify and avoid congested areas, allowing you to maintain a more consistent speed. Conserve fuel by doing so.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your Outlander Sport receives scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, maximizing fuel economy and extending the life of your vehicle.