2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: the Exterior Screams Sporty, the Interior Family

Looking at most compact crossovers your mind goes to things like Soccer and piano lessons but not so with the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. It’s got sporty looks that harken to its more aggressive sibling, the Lancer Evolution sedan. What’s more the performance of the Outlander Sport is not at odds with its sporty looks.

Then open the door and you’ll find one the roomiest crossovers in its class when it comes to cargo. However when it comes to people the puny third row seat is a real disappointment.

The Outlander comes with three trim levels: ES, SE and GT. I drove the SE with the optional Premium package which added a sunroof, rearview camera, nine speaker Rockford Fosgate sound system to the already generous 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, keyless ignition and other accoutrements.

The SE is equipped with a 2.4 liter four banger that gives power when it’s needed. The suspension is comfortable and steering tight.

The interior is austere with square lines and simple surfaces. Look closely and you’ll find some subpar plastics but on the whole the interior is pleasant to look at.

The most exciting thing about the Outlander is the drive. If you have to drive a crossover you want to at least have some fun while doing it. With the Outlander you get the fun along with the looks and you won’t see yourself coming and going.

With mileage estimates at 25/city and 31/highway you can drive happily knowing you won’t be stopping for the gas every other day. And the price is easy on your wallet; my test model with the optional Premium Package came in at just under $27,000.00. Not bad for a looker.