The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD with the 2.4L engine gets 25 MPG combined, which won’t win any awards. However, for its target buyer, it’s an acceptable trade-off for affordability and reasonable practicality. This isn’t a vehicle for those who prioritize fuel efficiency above all else. Instead, this Outlander Sport configuration is aimed at budget-conscious buyers needing a small crossover for urban commutes and occasional weekend trips. They’re drawn in by the low starting price and Mitsubishi’s generally reliable reputation, and they’re likely willing to live with middling MPG figures to secure a new vehicle with a warranty.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Outlander Sport 2.4L at 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that many owners will experience daily. The 2.4L engine, while offering more power than the base 2.0L, still needs to work to get the Outlander Sport moving from a standstill, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. The highway MPG figure is more palatable, suggesting reasonable efficiency on longer drives, aided by the automatic transmission’s ability to settle into a more fuel-efficient cruising gear. Expect that 29 MPG to decrease in hilly terrain or when battling strong headwinds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.4L at $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices.

Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of driving you do. If your commute is mostly stop-and-go traffic in a city with high gas prices, you’ll likely exceed that $1,750 figure. Conversely, if you primarily drive on the highway and live in an area with lower gas prices, you may spend less. Always check current gas prices and estimate based on your typical mileage.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing, real-world MPG often differs. Expect to see figures slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and neglecting basic maintenance can all negatively impact fuel economy. Tire pressure, cargo weight, and even weather conditions will affect what you see on the fuel pump.

Owners of the 2018 Outlander Sport often cite MPG figures in the low-to-mid 20s, reinforcing the idea that the EPA estimates are optimistic under typical conditions. You can browse all Mitsubishi fuel economy data to see how other models fare.

How it compares

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2.4L’s fuel economy is neither exceptional nor dreadful when compared to its competitors. A similarly equipped Honda HR-V, for example, delivers around 28 MPG combined, giving it a notable edge. The Mazda CX-3, another popular subcompact crossover, achieves comparable numbers to the HR-V. A Jeep Renegade with its 2.4L engine offers slightly lower MPG figures, closer to the Outlander Sport’s, but typically at a higher price point. The Nissan Kicks tends to deliver considerably better MPG figures than the Outlander Sport in most trims. For those considering other Mitsubishi models, check the OUTLANDER MPG across all years for context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important to maximizing fuel economy in the 2018 Outlander Sport. The 2.4L engine is responsive enough, but avoid stomping on the gas pedal unless absolutely necessary when needing to merge onto the highway. Smooth, gradual acceleration will help keep the RPMs down and reduce fuel consumption significantly. Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration.

Regular maintenance and proper tire inflation play a critical role. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo adds strain on the engine and reduces MPG. Remove any items from the trunk or cargo area that you don’t need for your daily commute. Even a few extra pounds can make a difference over time.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and avoid fluctuations in throttle input. This can help optimize fuel efficiency on long drives, but disengage cruise control when encountering hilly terrain since these systems can result in excessive downhill speed and unnecessary acceleration uphill.