25 MPG combined isn’t the main reason someone buys a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD with the 2.4L engine. This isn’t a fuel-sipping hybrid; it’s an affordable, compact crossover for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize space, practicality, and a reasonable price over high efficiency. The fuel economy is adequate and plays a supporting role.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 23 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the Outlander Sport’s stop-and-go driving, where the 2.4L engine works harder to move its nearly 3,200 pounds. The AV-S6 automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t great at maximizing fuel economy in cities. On the open road, the 28 MPG highway figure is more achievable, especially with consistent speeds and moderate acceleration. Long commutes on flat highways will yield the best fuel-efficient results, but expect a dip when encountering hills or needing to pass.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.4L. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with mixed city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the roads you drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. If you drive a lot in the city or have a heavy foot, expect to spend more. But, if you do a lot of highway driving and practice fuel-efficient habits, you might spend less than the EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy often differs from EPA estimates. Owners of the 2017 Outlander Sport 2.4L often report numbers that are slightly below the official 25 MPG combined. Expect numbers in the low 20s to the mid-20s, depending on driving style and conditions. Factors like carrying extra weight (passengers or cargo), aggressive acceleration, and neglecting routine maintenance can negatively impact fuel economy. Regularly checking tire pressure, using the recommended grade of gasoline, and avoiding unnecessary idling are simple steps to help maintain optimal efficiency.

How it compares

The 2017 Outlander Sport’s fuel economy is in the middle of the compact crossover class. A comparable Honda HR-V, especially front-wheel drive models, gets around 28 MPG combined, a noticeable advantage. A Jeep Compass with its 2.4L engine often struggles to break 24 MPG in combined driving. The Nissan Rogue Sport, another popular option, hovers around 27 MPG combined. For a buyer prioritizing fuel economy alone, there are better choices. However, the Outlander Sport has a lower price, making it a good option for those willing to trade a little MPG for savings. Exploring OUTLANDER MPG across all years can also provide valuable context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.4L engine in the Outlander Sport responds best to smooth inputs. Quick starts and hard braking waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed when you can.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s specifications, which are on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your Outlander Sport adds weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove items you don’t need to carry regularly, such as sporting equipment or tools. Even small changes can make a difference.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. Don’t use cruise control in hilly terrain though, as the transmission may shift a lot, canceling out any gains.

Consider the “Eco” mode. The Outlander Sport has an “Eco” mode that adjusts engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it may reduce performance a little, it can improve MPG, especially during city driving. Remember to explore all Mitsubishi fuel economy data for a broader perspective.