27 MPG combined is an understandable compromise in the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.0L. This isn’t a Prius competitor, and it’s not trying to be. This generation of Outlander Sport targets budget-conscious buyers who need the elevated driving position and perceived safety of a small SUV, but without the hefty monthly payments or repair bills. Good fuel economy is a plus, but affordability is always the primary concern.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Outlander Sport’s fuel economy further, estimating 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. That 24 MPG city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, and the 2.0L engine needs to work harder to get the nearly 3,000-pound Outlander Sport moving from a standstill. The automatic (AV-S6) transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but city driving will always take a toll. The 30 MPG highway figure is more palatable, and reflects the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently once up to speed. This makes the Outlander Sport a reasonable choice for those with longer commutes or frequent road trips, provided they don’t demand scorching acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.0L is approximately $1,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving, excessive idling, and consistently using premium fuel (which is unnecessary for this engine) will all increase your annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners report figures close to the EPA’s estimates. Some see slightly lower numbers, especially in regions with hilly terrain or frequent use of air conditioning. Keeping track of your fuel consumption using a fuel log app or simply noting mileage at each fill-up can provide a more accurate picture of what to expect in your specific driving situation. Be aware that cold weather can also negatively affect fuel economy, particularly on shorter trips.

How it compares

The 2018 Outlander Sport’s fuel economy places it competitively among other budget-friendly compact SUVs. For instance, the front-wheel drive 2018 Honda HR-V achieves 28 MPG combined with its CVT, slightly better than the Outlander Sport. The 2018 Mazda CX-3, known for its engaging driving dynamics, manages 29 MPG combined in front-wheel drive guise. The Nissan Kicks, a direct competitor focused entirely on value and fuel efficiency, boasts an impressive 33 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight that while the Outlander Sport is respectable, there are more fuel-efficient options in the segment, but often at a higher initial price or with fewer standard features. For those considering other Mitsubishi models, comparing all Mitsubishi fuel economy data can also inform your purchase. And if you’re interested in the broader Outlander lineup, research OUTLANDER MPG across all years to see how this model fits within that family.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to improving fuel economy in the Outlander Sport. The 2.0L engine responds best to a light foot on the accelerator. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to maintain a steady pace, especially in city driving. The automatic transmission will shift more efficiently when not pressured by aggressive inputs.

Regular maintenance also has a noticeable impact. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe easier, improving efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the vehicle adds weight and increases the engine’s workload, resulting in lower fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or back seat that you don’t need on a regular basis. Even small weight reductions can add up over time.

Plan your routes strategically. Whenever possible, choose routes that avoid heavy traffic and frequent stops. Using navigation apps to find the most efficient path can help you minimize idling time and maximize fuel economy. Highway driving is generally more efficient than stop-and-go city driving.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling wastes fuel and contributes zero miles per gallon. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than letting it idle for an extended period. This is especially relevant when waiting in parking lots or drive-through lines.