Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2012. If you're in the market for a compact SUV and the 2012 model has caught your eye, you're probably wondering if it’s a good choice. We'll break down everything you need to know, from performance and fuel economy to interior comfort and reliability, helping you decide if this vehicle is the right fit for your needs. Let’s get started!

Overview of the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a compact SUV that aims to blend fuel efficiency with sporty styling and practical utility. At the time of its release, it was designed to appeal to urban drivers looking for a vehicle that could handle city streets and the occasional weekend adventure. However, like any used car, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision. The Outlander Sport aimed to be a budget-friendly option in the compact SUV segment, offering a smaller footprint than the standard Outlander while still providing ample cargo space and a higher driving position. This model year came with a few different trim levels, each offering varying degrees of features and amenities, so there's likely a version out there to match your specific preferences and budget. This car was trying to compete with big players in the market, aiming to provide a compelling mix of value and practicality. Now, let's dive into the specifics to see how well it holds up today.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produces around 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While this might sound adequate on paper, in reality, the Outlander Sport can feel a bit underpowered, especially when fully loaded with passengers or cargo, or when trying to accelerate quickly on the highway. The engine needs to be revved quite high to get the most out of it, which can make the driving experience somewhat noisy. Some reviewers at the time noted that the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which was available as an option, could exacerbate this feeling of sluggishness, as it tends to keep the engine at higher RPMs during acceleration. However, the CVT does contribute to better fuel economy.

In terms of handling, the Outlander Sport is reasonably nimble. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking is a breeze. The steering is light and responsive, which adds to the ease of driving. However, the suspension is tuned more for comfort than for sporty handling, so you might experience some body roll in corners. Overall, the Outlander Sport is not designed to be a performance-oriented vehicle, but rather a practical and comfortable daily driver. If you're looking for something with a bit more pep, you might want to consider other options. But if you prioritize fuel efficiency and ease of use, the Outlander Sport could still be a viable choice. Road imperfections can be noticeable, and the ride isn't as smooth as some of its competitors, but it's adequate for most driving conditions.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is a significant factor for many car buyers, and the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport does reasonably well in this area. The EPA estimates for the front-wheel-drive model with the CVT are around 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. These numbers are quite competitive for a compact SUV of this vintage. The manual transmission version has slightly lower estimates, but still respectable. Real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but overall, the Outlander Sport is an economical choice for daily commuting and long trips. One of the main reasons for its good fuel economy is its relatively small engine and the efficiency of the CVT. However, as mentioned earlier, the CVT can sometimes make the engine feel strained, which might tempt some drivers to push the engine harder, thus reducing fuel economy. Nevertheless, if driven conservatively, the Outlander Sport can help you save money at the pump. Keeping up with regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, can also help maintain optimal fuel efficiency.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, the interior is functional but not particularly luxurious. The design is straightforward, with an emphasis on practicality rather than high-end materials or flashy styling. The seats are generally comfortable, especially for shorter trips, but may lack sufficient support for longer journeys. The rear seats offer adequate legroom for adults, but it might feel a bit cramped for taller passengers. The quality of the materials used in the cabin is decent for its class, but there's a fair amount of hard plastic, which can detract from the overall feel.

On the plus side, the Outlander Sport offers a good amount of cargo space for its size. With the rear seats up, there's enough room for groceries or luggage, and folding the seats down expands the cargo area considerably. The infotainment system is fairly basic, with available features like a CD player, USB port, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trim levels may include a touchscreen display, but it's not the most intuitive system on the market. Noise insulation could be better, as road and wind noise can be noticeable at higher speeds. Overall, the interior of the Outlander Sport is adequate for its price point, but it's not its strongest selling point. If you prioritize a comfortable and well-appointed interior, you might want to explore other options.

Reliability and Maintenance

Reliability is a crucial factor when considering a used car, and the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a mixed reputation. Some owners have reported few issues, while others have experienced problems with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. It's always a good idea to check the vehicle's history report and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the CVT transmission, which can be expensive to repair or replace. Engine issues, such as oil leaks and excessive oil consumption, have also been reported. Electrical problems, such as issues with the power windows and door locks, are also not uncommon.

Maintenance costs for the Outlander Sport are generally reasonable, but it's important to keep up with regular servicing to prevent major issues. Oil changes, fluid checks, and tire rotations are essential for maintaining the vehicle's performance and reliability. It's also a good idea to check the owner's manual for recommended maintenance intervals. When it comes to repairs, parts availability is generally good, and prices are competitive. However, as mentioned earlier, CVT transmission repairs can be costly. Overall, the Outlander Sport can be a reliable vehicle if properly maintained, but it's important to be aware of the potential issues and take steps to mitigate them.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport comes equipped with standard features such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. These features provide a basic level of protection in the event of a collision. Higher trim levels may include additional safety features, such as a rearview camera, which can be helpful when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. In government crash tests, the Outlander Sport received mixed ratings. While it performed well in some tests, it received lower scores in others, particularly in the side-impact test. It's important to consider these ratings when evaluating the vehicle's overall safety.

It's also worth noting that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2012, so the Outlander Sport lacks many of the modern safety features found in newer vehicles, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. If safety is a top priority, you might want to consider a newer vehicle with more advanced safety features. However, the Outlander Sport still offers a reasonable level of protection for its age and class. Regular maintenance, such as checking the brakes and tires, is also essential for ensuring the vehicle's safety.

Pros and Cons

To sum it up, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport:

Pros:

• Good fuel economy
• Compact size for easy maneuverability
• Available all-wheel drive
• Reasonable cargo space
• Affordable price point (especially on the used market)

Cons:

• Underpowered engine
• CVT transmission can feel sluggish
• Interior lacks luxury and refinement
• Mixed reliability record
• Lacks modern safety features

Alternatives to the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

If you're not completely sold on the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, there are several other compact SUVs from that model year that you might want to consider. The Honda CR-V is a popular choice known for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. The Toyota RAV4 is another excellent option, offering a similar combination of reliability and practicality. The Mazda CX-5 is a more sporty choice, with sharp handling and a stylish interior. The Subaru Forester is a good option if you need all-wheel drive and appreciate a roomy cabin. Each of these alternatives has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's worth doing some research and test-driving a few different models to see which one best fits your needs.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

So, should you buy a 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport? The answer depends on your priorities and budget. If you're looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient compact SUV for city driving, and you're willing to accept some compromises in terms of performance and interior quality, the Outlander Sport could be a viable option. However, it's crucial to do your homework and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a purchase. Check the vehicle's history report, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic, and be aware of the potential reliability issues. If you prioritize performance, luxury, or advanced safety features, you might want to consider other options. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive the Outlander Sport and compare it to other vehicles in its class.

Good luck with your car search, and I hope this review has been helpful!