2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

Pros: Sporty styling and driving personality is distinctive among compact SUVs; optional panoramic glass roof panel; competitive starting price; decent front and rear passenger space

Cons: Middling acceleration with base engine; high noise levels; prices rise quickly as options are added; mediocre overall refinement; bobtail styling compromises cargo space

CG Says: The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport gains safety features and the top trim level is now badged GT instead of SEL. Blind-spot alert and rear cross-traffic alert are now standard on SE and GT trims. Forward-collision mitigation, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights are newly standard on GT. Outlander Sport is a crossover subcompact SUV with seating for five. The base engine is a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. The topline GT has a 168-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. All models offer a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The front-wheel drive ES offers a choice of 5-speed manual or CVT automatic transmissions, otherwise all models have a standard CVT. Available features include panoramic glass roof panel, keyless access and starting, automatic high-beam headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Outlander Sport’s bobtail styling gives it a unique personality, and for the most part, its driving character lives up to the sporty looks. However, its drivetrain behavior isn’t as refined as most class competitors, and its pricing can get rather steep as you add options. Fortunately, most of the factory packages are little more than window dressing and can be easily skipped. If you’re looking for a versatile urban runabout, a modestly equipped Outlander Sport might make some sense.