The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.0L gets 27 MPG combined, which isn’t record-setting, but it’s acceptable for its purpose. This vehicle is designed to be affordable and relatively spacious, with efficiency as a secondary, but still important, consideration. Buyers are often young and budget-conscious, prioritizing value and practicality over fuel savings.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Outlander Sport’s fuel economy at 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure is due to stop-and-go driving and idling, which reduces fuel efficiency. You can achieve 30 MPG on the highway on longer trips at consistent speeds, especially with a light foot. The automatic transmission (AV-S6) helps keep the engine in its most efficient range, but the small engine still needs to work hard to maintain highway speeds, particularly on hills or with headwinds.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.0L at $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices at the time of testing. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how much you drive, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving and neglecting maintenance can also significantly impact this figure.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers can expect to see figures close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions. However, extreme weather (extensive use of air conditioning or heating), heavy loads, and aggressive driving can easily lower the average below 27 MPG. Conversely, careful driving and mostly highway miles could raise the average above the EPA estimate. Monitor your fuel consumption over time to see how your driving style affects the Outlander Sport’s efficiency.

How it compares

The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport’s fuel economy compares differently to its competitors’ depending on the trim and engine. The Mazda CX-3, for example, achieves about 29 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Honda HR-V delivers similar numbers, often slightly exceeding the Outlander Sport in real-world testing. The Nissan Juke, with its turbocharged engine, offers around 28 MPG combined but requires premium fuel for optimal performance, potentially negating the mileage advantage. Buyers should consider the initial price, fuel economy, and fuel type when comparing these vehicles. For Mitsubishi enthusiasts, be sure to view all Mitsubishi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Outlander Sport. Avoid rapid starts and hard braking, as these consume more fuel. Accelerate smoothly and gradually, allowing the engine to build momentum efficiently.

Maintain a consistent speed on the highway. Cruise control helps minimize speed fluctuations, which can reduce fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary lane changes, which often require sudden acceleration and braking.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which is on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Keep your engine tuned, change the oil regularly, and ensure the air filter is clean. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently and consumes less fuel.

Pay attention to cargo weight. Transporting unnecessary items increases weight, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any extra items and only carry essential cargo for the trip.

Want to compare this Mitsubishi to others? Check out OUTLANDER MPG across all years.