2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: What's Changed

CARS.COM

• Most significant changes: Automatic climate control and a shark-fin roof antenna are standard on all models. The 2.4-liter engine is no longer available on ES models or the front-wheel drive GT trim.
• Price change: TBA
• On sale: Early fall
• Which should you buy, 2016 or 2017? 2016

Related: More Mitsubishi News

The Outlander Sport is the smaller of Mitsubishi's two SUVs, but it is the bigger seller and most popular model in the Japanese brand's lineup.

Changes for 2017 are modest: All models now have standard automatic climate control and a roof-mounted shark-fin antenna. The only other change is that the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is no longer available on the ES or front-drive GT models, so those come with only the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

The lineup consists of ES and front-drive GT models with the 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine and SE, SEL and all-wheel-drive GT models with the 168-hp, 2.4-liter engine. The 2.0-liter engine offers a choice of a manual or continuously variable automatic transmission; a CVT is the sole transmission for the 2.4-liter models. All models are available with front- or all-wheel drive.

With seats for five and compact dimensions, the Outlander Sport competes in a popular but crowded market segment that includes top-selling SUVs such as the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4.

Standard equipment on the Outlander Sport includes 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, heated side mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry and side curtain air bags that cover both rows of seats. In addition, it comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which provides some protection for the long haul without having to pay extra for an extended service contract.

Prices for 2017 haven't been announced but will likely remain close to the current levels, which are competitive if not lower than some rivals. The Outlander Sport, though, faces tough competition from brands that have more dealers, greater advertising support and better reputations for quality and reliability. The bottom line is that Mitsubishi dealers should be offering good deals on this compact SUV to offset the advantages offered by its rivals.

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