2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SE: A Practical Compact Crossover

Highlight: All new Mitsubishis are equipped with a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Mitsubishis warranty coverage is one of the best in the industry.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $22,490 (Base price starts at $19,240)

Major Standard Features: automatic on/off headlights; power windows; power door locks; a/c; 140-watt, AM/FM/CD/MP3-compatible audio system - with 4-speakers, 16-inch wheels; rear tinted windows; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; remote keyless entry; front side impact air bags and side impact air curtains with rollover protection

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter DOHC/148-hp

Standard Fuel Mileage: 25-city/31-highway

Competitor: Chevy Equinox, Dodge Nitro, Ford Escape; Hyundai Tuscon, Kia Sportage, Nissan Juke, Toyota RAV4 and VW Tiguan

What’s New: The Outlander Sport five-seater compact crossover is a new addition to the Japanese automaker’s line-up for the 2011 model year.

Pros: The fuel-efficient, smooth-riding, athletic designed crossover with its bold front grille definitely standouts from most mommy-like crossovers. The all-new 2011 Outlander Sport is available in two trim levels: ES and SE. Depending on the model, one can opt for either a 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive configuration with either a manual or automatic transmission.

Our Mitsubishi was also equipped with easy-to-read gauges, using the brand’s color Multi-information display (MID) center which included a trip computer, a maintenance reminder, ambient temperature data and audio system information.

Moreover, in today’s market our barebone SE crossover seemed quite affordable – before adding on options. Besides the standard features noted above on the base model, our SE model was outfitted with 18-inch wheels, a push-button keyless starter, high intensity headlights, a front-seat center sliding armrest, a rear- seat center armrest with cupholders, and a 6-speaker audio system.

And to enhance the overall driving experience of this compact crossover, one can choose to accessorize their vehicle by adding a navigation system, a rear-view camera, a 710-watt audio system, a satellite system and a panoramic roof. Ironically, by adding on these options, the price significantly increases along with the overall ownership expense in case something goes wrong with the vehicle.

Cons: While we able to find an optimal seating position in the vehicle we tested, it would be great if the option list expands to add a power driver’seat and leather seats.

Also the 4-cylinder engine, which is the only one available in this compact, was a little noisier than what we expected. We’re not sure if the extremely hot summer-like weather with the a/c cranked-up caused the additional strain, causing the excessive noise. However, according to the folks at Mitsubishi, they have accessorized the crossover with its tried and true 4B11 engine. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t that refine for a $20,000 automobile. The noisey engine sort of reminded us of a 1987 underpowered Chevy Nova.

Furthermore, we were perplexed that the vehicle was equipped with paddle shifters on the steering wheel so as to operate like a clutchless automatic. Now while the vehicle has sport in its name, it just doesn’t drive like any sports car we’ve become accustomed to.

The Verdict: Unlike most of today’s vehicles, Mitsubishi has managed to remain frugal with our SE model, making it both affordable and practical with its stylish athletic exterior and cool looking 18-inch wheel package.

For those who can live without high-end features like a back up camera, leather seats, a roof and a satellite radio system, the Outlander Sport will definitely serve its purpose, as we found in the upgraded SE model we reviewed without any options. For a price point in the low $20,000 range, this vehicle is a worthy contender in its segment. However, upon loading the vehicle up with high-end features, the vehicle’s price drives up to $29,000. At the $29,000 price point, this vehicle pits against larger compact crossovers which offer more room and standard equipment like the Chevy Equinox.