2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

Pros: Sporty styling and driving personality is distinctive among subcompact SUVs; 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 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport adds standard equipment, but is otherwise unchanged. 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 have a standard CVT automatic transmission and offer a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive—except the GT where all-wheel drive is standard. Available safety features include forward-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. 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.