Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018, shall we? This subcompact SUV has been a popular choice for those wanting a blend of practicality, style, and affordability. We're going to explore everything from its engine options and interior features to its safety ratings and potential problems. So, buckle up!

Overview of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport entered the market as a refreshed version, offering a few cosmetic updates and technological improvements over the previous model year. Its appeal lay in its compact size, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spots. The Outlander Sport provides a decent amount of cargo space for its class and is known for its fuel efficiency. It’s also important to acknowledge that the Outlander Sport is the smaller sibling of the Outlander, which means it offers a slightly different driving experience and caters to a different set of needs.

Trim Levels

The 2018 Outlander Sport was available in several trims, including the ES, LE, SE, and GT. Each trim offered a different set of features and options, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. The base ES trim provided essential features like a touchscreen infotainment system and a rearview camera. The LE trim added features like unique wheels, and a sunroof, offering a more stylish look. Moving up to the SE trim provided more advanced features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, enhancing safety and convenience. The top-of-the-line GT trim was equipped with the more powerful engine and came with premium features like leather upholstery and a Rockford Fosgate sound system. Understanding the differences between these trims is crucial when considering purchasing one, as the features available greatly impact the driving experience and the value proposition. Also, the availability of these trims can vary depending on the region and the specific market it was sold in.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offered two engine choices. The base engine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced a respectable amount of power for daily driving. This engine was generally praised for its fuel efficiency, making it a great option for those prioritizing cost savings. For those seeking more power, the GT trim featured a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, providing a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque, resulting in a more engaging driving experience, especially during acceleration and highway merging. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributed to the vehicle's fuel efficiency but could sometimes feel a bit sluggish. The availability of all-wheel drive (AWD) was another key feature, especially for those living in areas with inclement weather. The AWD system provided enhanced traction and stability, making the Outlander Sport a capable choice in various driving conditions, ensuring better handling and control on slippery surfaces. The choice of engine and drivetrain played a significant role in the overall performance and driving experience of the 2018 Outlander Sport, and buyers needed to consider these options based on their individual needs and driving habits.

Interior and Technology of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018

Let’s peek inside, shall we? The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a functional and straightforward interior design. While it might not be the flashiest in its class, the cabin is well-built with a focus on practicality. The materials used are generally durable, and the layout is user-friendly, with controls placed within easy reach. The seats are supportive, and the driving position is comfortable for most drivers. Passengers will find adequate space in both the front and rear, although taller individuals might find the rear headroom a bit tight.

Infotainment and Features

The infotainment system in the Outlander Sport is centered around a touchscreen display. The size of the screen and the features offered varied depending on the trim level. Entry-level models came with a smaller screen and basic functionality, including Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels offered larger screens with added features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. These features allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle’s infotainment system, providing access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The system also supports voice commands, allowing you to control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel. The sound quality is decent, especially in trims equipped with the Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, which delivers a richer and more immersive listening experience.

Comfort and Convenience

Other notable interior features include automatic climate control (available in higher trims), which helps maintain a consistent cabin temperature, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, which add a touch of luxury. The Outlander Sport also provides ample storage space, with various compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized. The rear cargo area is relatively spacious for a subcompact SUV, offering enough room for groceries, luggage, and other everyday items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space when needed, making the Outlander Sport versatile for various tasks. The overall interior design and features of the 2018 Outlander Sport aim to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Safety Features and Ratings for the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2018

Safety is a big deal, right? The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport comes with a range of safety features designed to protect occupants and help prevent accidents. Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a rearview camera. These features work together to provide a solid foundation of safety, ensuring that the vehicle remains stable and controllable in various driving situations.

Advanced Safety Systems

Higher trim levels of the Outlander Sport are equipped with advanced safety systems, such as blind-spot monitoring, which alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert, which warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. These features significantly enhance safety by providing additional awareness of the vehicle's surroundings. The Outlander Sport also offers lane departure warning, which alerts the driver if they start to drift out of their lane, and forward collision mitigation, which can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision. These advanced safety systems are designed to actively assist the driver in avoiding accidents and protecting occupants.

Safety Ratings

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport received generally good safety ratings from major safety organizations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Outlander Sport