25 MPG combined won’t break any records, but for the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.4L 4-cyl, it’s an acceptable tradeoff. This isn’t a cutting-edge hybrid. It’s an affordable, basic crossover targeted at budget-minded buyers who want low prices and practicality more than fuel economy. These are buyers who prioritize a new-car warranty and the higher seating position of a CUV, without spending too much.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Outlander Sport achieves 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The lower city number is typical for this type of vehicle, since stop-and-go traffic reduces fuel economy. The highway number is arguably more important for potential buyers. Many owners commute, and that 29 MPG represents considerable savings on longer trips compared to less efficient vehicles. The AV-S6 automatic transmission, tuned for fuel efficiency, helps keep the RPMs low on the open road, which helps highway mileage. The larger 2.4L engine in this 2WD model will always use more fuel than the smaller 2.0L in all driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD 2.4L 4-cyl at $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving and local fuel prices, but this is a useful comparison point. Assume regular unleaded fuel, which means premium grades will increase costs. For many buyers, minimizing annual fuel expenses is a key priority, and the Outlander Sport’s $1,750 estimate caters to that. The number is competitive enough that the savings on purchase price will allow owners to tolerate fuel stops.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Driving style, road conditions, and even tire pressure can impact your MPG. Expect slightly lower figures in stop-and-go traffic or with a full load of passengers and cargo. Driving at moderate speeds on the highway can sometimes produce results that meet or exceed the EPA’s 29 MPG estimate. Aggressive acceleration will hurt fuel economy significantly with this naturally aspirated engine.

Regular maintenance, especially air filter replacements, helps keep the Outlander Sport running efficiently. Be sure to explore OUTLANDER MPG across all years to see if your past experiences help you understand this vehicle’s behavior.

How it compares

The Outlander Sport competes in a crowded market, and fuel economy is important. The Nissan Kicks, for example, achieves a combined MPG of 31, making it more efficient. However, the Kicks delivers less power than the Mitsubishi with its smaller engine, a compromise some buyers won’t accept.

The Hyundai Kona gets around 30 MPG combined with its base engine, slightly edging out the Outlander Sport, and the Kia Seltos offers around 29 MPG combined in FWD form. Those extra 4-5 MPGs of the Nissan and Hyundai equal real savings, but consider the performance and features tradeoffs. For a complete picture, review all Mitsubishi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Outlander Sport. Avoid aggressive starts and stops, and try to maintain a consistent speed. Gentle inputs work best with the engine, and you’ll see the MPG gauge climb when you avoid flooring the accelerator. This driving style is effective in city driving.

Tire inflation plays a crucial role. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and using more fuel.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra cargo in the trunk or on the roof rack can negatively impact fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t regularly need. Small amounts of added weight add up, impacting overall fuel consumption.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel efficiency on long trips. Be aware of traffic and avoid cruise control in heavy traffic or hilly areas.

Regular maintenance is important. A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups. A properly maintained engine will burn fuel more efficiently.