26 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it paints a realistic picture of what to expect from the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD 2.4L 4-cyl. This isn’t a hybrid or a hyper-efficient compact, it’s a budget-friendly three-row SUV with all-weather capability, designed for families who prioritize space and affordability over fuel savings. Buyers accept the 26 MPG because it allows them to get into a larger vehicle for less money. They’re often willing to trade a few MPGs for the practicality and versatility the Outlander offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates place the 2019 Outlander 4WD at 24 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions many Outlander owners experience daily, shuttling kids to school or running errands around town. The 29 MPG highway rating is achievable during steady-state cruising, which many owners likely experience on weekend road trips or longer commutes. The 2.4L engine, while adequate for daily driving and light towing, isn’t stressed at higher speeds, allowing it to maintain a reasonable level of efficiency. The automatic transmission’s six speeds (AV-S6) also help to optimize fuel consumption across various driving situations. For a broader perspective, explore OUTLANDER MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD 2.4L 4-cyl to be $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. While individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local gas prices, $1,700 provides a reasonable baseline for budgeting. Consider this number a target to beat through judicious driving habits. It is the figure against which you will measure your own savings, and it is a critical factor to weigh against the costs of larger or more luxurious SUVs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides valuable estimates, real-world fuel economy often varies. The 2019 Outlander 4WD’s MPG can be affected by factors like driving style, terrain, and load. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and carrying heavy cargo will all reduce fuel efficiency.

Likewise, driving in hilly or mountainous areas will typically result in lower MPG than driving on flat, level roads. Owners who drive primarily in city environments with heavy traffic should adjust their expectations accordingly. Some drivers might achieve slightly better figures than the EPA estimates, especially those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds. Keeping tires properly inflated, performing regular maintenance, and avoiding unnecessary idling can contribute to maximizing fuel efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to other SUVs in its class, the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD 2.4L 4-cyl lands somewhere in the middle of the pack in terms of fuel economy. For example, the front-wheel drive Nissan Rogue typically achieves around 29 MPG combined, making it a slightly more efficient option for those who don’t need all-wheel drive. On the other hand, a comparable Kia Sorento with all-wheel drive might deliver around 24 MPG combined, placing the Outlander ahead. The Subaru Forester, known for its standard all-wheel drive, often gets around 28 MPG combined. These differences matter to the Outlander buyer who wants third-row seating and AWD capability, but might be willing to consider a more fuel-efficient option without the third row if cost outweighs all other factors. Browse all Mitsubishi fuel economy data to see how other models compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.4L engine in the Outlander responds predictably to changes in driving style, so prioritize smooth and gradual acceleration. Avoiding “jackrabbit” starts and unnecessary bursts of speed will conserve fuel over the long run. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Tire pressure plays a surprisingly significant role in fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance and reduce MPG, especially on long highway drives.

Minimize idling whenever possible. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. Every little bit helps in the long run and prolongs the life of internal components.

Be mindful of the weight you’re carrying. Remove any unnecessary cargo from the vehicle, as extra weight increases fuel consumption. This is especially relevant for Outlander owners who frequently use the cargo area for hauling items, so take the time to clear out unnecessary items on occasion.

Regular maintenance is key to optimizing fuel efficiency. Keep your engine properly tuned, replace air filters as recommended, and use the correct type of engine oil. Preventative maintenance, such as spark plug replacement, ensures proper engine combustion and maximized fuel economy.