25 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s adequate for the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 4WD. This isn’t a hybrid or a dedicated efficiency machine. It’s a compact, affordable SUV designed to get you around town reliably, even when the weather turns foul. The type of buyer drawn to the Outlander Sport 4WD prioritizes a low price, a generous warranty, and the all-weather confidence of four-wheel drive over segment-leading fuel consumption. They accept this MPG figure as a reasonable compromise for those benefits.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Outlander Sport 4WD will achieve 23 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the 2.4L engine works harder and spends more time idling. The highway number showcases the engine’s ability to cruise more efficiently at consistent speeds. The automatic (AV-S6) transmission plays a role here, trying to keep the engine in its optimal rev range for fuel conservation, though its operation can sometimes feel a bit strained when merging or passing at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, you can expect to spend approximately $1,750 on fuel annually driving the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 4WD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and local fuel prices, giving you a benchmark for comparison. Even small fluctuations in gas prices can noticeably impact your annual spending.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized fuel economy rating, but real-world MPG often differs. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even the weather can affect fuel consumption. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will negatively impact your MPG. Smooth, consistent driving habits will help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Routine maintenance, such as keeping your tires properly inflated and changing the engine oil, can also make a difference.

How it compares

The Outlander Sport 4WD’s fuel economy places it somewhere in the middle of the compact SUV segment. The Nissan Kicks, for example, boasts a significantly better 31 MPG combined, but it’s only available with front-wheel drive, which might be a dealbreaker for some buyers. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its standard all-wheel drive, achieves around 27 MPG combined, a slight edge over the Mitsubishi. A similarly-equipped Jeep Renegade 4×4 comes in around 24 MPG combined, showing the Outlander Sport in a slightly better light.

Potential buyers considering a Nissan Rogue Sport (before it was discontinued) with AWD could have expected roughly 27 MPG combined. Ultimately, the Outlander Sport buyer is willing to trade a few MPG for its specific blend of affordability, features, and that all-important Mitsubishi warranty. For those interested in exploring other options within the Mitsubishi family, there’s all Mitsubishi fuel economy data available for comparison, including details on the OUTLANDER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. The Outlander Sport’s 2.4L engine responds best to smooth, gradual inputs. Stomping on the gas pedal to quickly accelerate will rapidly deplete fuel. Look ahead, maintain a safe following distance, and try to time your approach to traffic lights to minimize the need for sudden stops.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can fluctuate.

Minimize idling whenever possible. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so you won’t be causing undue wear and tear by doing so. This is particularly important in city driving, where you might spend a significant amount of time sitting at red lights.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. This can help maintain a constant speed, reducing unnecessary speed fluctuations that waste fuel. Be mindful of the terrain and traffic conditions. Cruise control might not be the most efficient option in hilly areas, where the vehicle might downshift frequently to maintain speed.

Keep up with routine maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean air filter ensures that the engine breathes easily, and fresh oil reduces friction and improves overall efficiency. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will help keep your Outlander Sport running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.