The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 4WD with its 2.4L engine achieves 25 MPG combined, which is an adequate figure for a subcompact SUV designed primarily for urban drivers who need some extra all-weather capability. This isn’t a vehicle bought for its excellent efficiency, but for its attractive price, manageable size, and the security of four-wheel drive. Buyers in snowy climates or those who occasionally venture off the beaten path prioritize these features and are willing to accept fuel economy that isn’t class-leading to get them.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Outlander Sport break down to 23 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The urban figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the 2.4L engine and automatic transmission work hardest, moving a vehicle that weighs around 3,300 pounds. The 28 MPG highway figure is better, but remember that achieving this number requires a light foot and consistent speeds. Rapid acceleration or sustained high-speed cruising will quickly diminish your fuel mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 4WD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. Someone who primarily drives short distances in the city will likely exceed this estimate, while someone who does mostly highway driving might fall below it. This calculation also assumes the use of regular gasoline, the only type recommended for the Outlander Sport.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world fuel economy often changes. Expect that 25 MPG combined figure to vary based on several factors. Cold weather, for instance, can noticeably reduce fuel economy as the engine takes longer to reach its optimal operating temperature. Aggressive driving, frequent hard acceleration and braking, is another major cause. Careful driving habits and consistent highway speeds can help you approach, or even slightly exceed, the EPA estimates. The Outlander Sport’s simple powertrain doesn’t offer advanced features like cylinder deactivation or a particularly advanced transmission, meaning that the driver’s influence on fuel economy is significant.

How it compares

The Outlander Sport’s fuel economy is roughly in the middle of the subcompact SUV segment. The Honda HR-V, for example, with its available all-wheel drive achieves around 28 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-30 with AWD also delivers slightly better fuel economy in real-world testing. The Nissan Kicks, which is only available with front-wheel drive, boasts significantly better mileage, nearing 33 MPG combined. This comparison highlights the trade-offs in choosing the Outlander Sport. You gain the security of all-wheel drive, but you sacrifice some fuel efficiency compared to front-wheel-drive competitors. To see all Mitsubishi fuel economy data, you can click the appropriate link. Also to see OUTLANDER MPG across all years, follow that link.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is key to improving fuel economy in any vehicle, including the Outlander Sport. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Following the recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes and other services will also help ensure that the engine is running efficiently.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Letting the engine run while stationary consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine.

Practice smooth acceleration and braking. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and drive smoothly to minimize the need for sudden speed changes. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the roof rack, as they increase wind resistance and reduce fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. Ensure that your windows are closed when driving at higher speeds to further minimize drag.