The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a compact crossover SUV, introduced as a smaller, sportier alternative to the larger Outlander. Part of its first generation (globally known as RVR or ASX), it was available in ES and SE trims. New prices ranged from approximately $19,500 to $24,000. It stood out for its affordability, nimble size for city driving, and relatively good fuel economy, appealing to budget-conscious buyers seeking a versatile compact utility.
The Good
Key advantages include its excellent fuel efficiency and accessible price point, offering strong practical value. Its compact size and available All-Wheel Control (AWC) provide confidence and agility, making it a nimble city companion. The straightforward design and comfortable cabin appeal to those seeking an unpretentious, reliable, and economical ride.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include the 2.0-liter engine's somewhat anemic performance and the Continuously Variable Transmission's (CVT) sometimes noisy operation. The interior materials can feel basic, and the ride might be firmer than some rivals. Cargo space is also on the smaller side for its class.
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Quick Overview
- Engine Option: The primary engine for the 2014 model year was a 2.0-liter MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system) inline 4-cylinder. While a 2.4-liter engine was introduced late in the 2014 model year for the SE AWC trim, the 2.0L remains the most common.
- Horsepower: The 2.0-liter engine produced 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission (FWD only) or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD with CVT: EPA-estimated 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined.
- AWD with CVT: EPA-estimated 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined.
- FWD with 5-speed Manual: EPA-estimated 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined.
- 0-60 Times: Typically ranged from 9 to 10 seconds, depending on the transmission and drivetrain, indicating leisurely acceleration.
- Towing Capacity: The 2014 Outlander Sport was generally not officially rated for substantial towing. If properly equipped, it could handle very light loads, typically up to 1,500 pounds, but it's not recommended as a primary tow vehicle.
- Trim-Level Features:
- ES Trim: The base model came standard with 16-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, automatic climate control, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack.
- SE Trim: Building on the ES, the SE added 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, xenon headlights, automatic headlights, chrome exterior trim, keyless ignition/entry, an upgraded fabric upholstery, heated front seats, a rearview camera, a six-speaker sound system, a color multi-information display, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls with Bluetooth connectivity. Optional for the SE were a panoramic sunroof and a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system. Both trims offered either Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system.
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2014 |
| Make | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Outlander Sport |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0L L4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Have?
Owners of the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport have frequently reported several issues, with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) being a primary concern. While generally reliable, some units can exhibit excessive noise, hesitation during acceleration, or, in more severe cases, complete failure. Regular and diligent CVT fluid changes are critical for its longevity.
Another common complaint revolves around excessive road and wind noise at highway speeds, which can detract from cabin comfort. The interior, while functional, uses hard plastics that can show wear and tear over time and contribute to rattles or squeaks.
Less frequently, but still noted, are issues with the air conditioning system, including leaks or compressor failures, and some owners have reported premature wear of suspension components leading to noise or a degraded ride quality.
Regarding recalls for the 2014 model year, two significant ones were issued by NHTSA:
Long-term reliability is generally considered average. While the 2.0L engine itself is quite robust, the CVT remains the primary long-term reliability wildcard. Proper maintenance is paramount to mitigate these potential issues.
Another common complaint revolves around excessive road and wind noise at highway speeds, which can detract from cabin comfort. The interior, while functional, uses hard plastics that can show wear and tear over time and contribute to rattles or squeaks.
Less frequently, but still noted, are issues with the air conditioning system, including leaks or compressor failures, and some owners have reported premature wear of suspension components leading to noise or a degraded ride quality.
Regarding recalls for the 2014 model year, two significant ones were issued by NHTSA:
- Recall 14V628000 (November 2014): This recall addressed a potential issue where the front lower control arm mounting bolts could loosen. If these bolts detach, it could lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Mitsubishi advised owners to have the bolts inspected and, if necessary, replaced or retightened.
- Recall 14V340000 (June 2014): This recall involved the fog light wiring harness. The harness connector could corrode due to water intrusion, potentially causing the fog lights to fail or short circuit, which could pose a fire risk. Dealers were instructed to inspect and replace the wiring harness assembly if necessary.
Long-term reliability is generally considered average. While the 2.0L engine itself is quite robust, the CVT remains the primary long-term reliability wildcard. Proper maintenance is paramount to mitigate these potential issues.
How long will the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport last?
With diligent maintenance, a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport can reliably reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles, providing many years of service. Its 2.0-liter engine is generally durable and robust. However, long-term durability largely hinges on the health of its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT requires regular fluid changes to prevent premature wear or failure, which can be a significant and costly repair if neglected.
Over time, owners might notice increased road noise due to aging seals and suspension components. Interior plastics, while hard-wearing, can develop rattles or show signs of scuffing. Suspension bushings and other wear-and-tear items may also need attention as mileage accumulates. Overall, with proactive care, it offers respectable longevity.
Over time, owners might notice increased road noise due to aging seals and suspension components. Interior plastics, while hard-wearing, can develop rattles or show signs of scuffing. Suspension bushings and other wear-and-tear items may also need attention as mileage accumulates. Overall, with proactive care, it offers respectable longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offered a decent array of built-in technology and entertainment features for its class and price point.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Driver-Assistance Features:
Driver-assistance technology was relatively basic for the 2014 model year. Advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not available. A rearview camera was an important optional feature, standard on the SE trim, which aided in parking and reversing safety.
Safety Features:
The Outlander Sport was equipped with a comprehensive set of passive and active safety features:
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2014 Outlander Sport performed reasonably well in independent crash tests:
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
- Standard: The base ES trim included a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio input jack.
- SE Trim: Stepped up to a six-speaker sound system, a USB port, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, and a color multi-information display in the instrument cluster.
- Optional: Available options primarily for the SE trim included a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system with real-time traffic updates, a premium 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers and a subwoofer, and satellite radio.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Driver-assistance technology was relatively basic for the 2014 model year. Advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not available. A rearview camera was an important optional feature, standard on the SE trim, which aided in parking and reversing safety.
Safety Features:
The Outlander Sport was equipped with a comprehensive set of passive and active safety features:
- Standard anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Traction control
- Active Stability Control (ASC)
- Hill Start Assist
- Seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2014 Outlander Sport performed reasonably well in independent crash tests:
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): It received the top rating of "Good" in moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact, roof strength, and head restraints & seats tests. It received an "Acceptable" rating in the challenging small-overlap frontal-offset test, which was a newer, more stringent test at the time.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The vehicle earned an overall rating of four out of five stars. It received four stars for frontal crash protection, five stars for side-impact protection, and four stars for rollover protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport had an MSRP ranging from approximately $19,500 for the base ES FWD to around $24,000 for a well-equipped SE AWD model. Currently, in the used market, prices typically range from $7,000 to $12,000, varying significantly based on mileage, condition, and trim level.
Mitsubishi vehicles, including the Outlander Sport, tend to depreciate faster than competitors like Honda or Toyota. Factors heavily affecting resale value include high mileage, documented service history (especially for the CVT), accident history, and general cosmetic condition. Models with All-Wheel Control (AWC) and the more feature-rich SE trim usually hold their value slightly better than the basic ES FWD versions.
Mitsubishi vehicles, including the Outlander Sport, tend to depreciate faster than competitors like Honda or Toyota. Factors heavily affecting resale value include high mileage, documented service history (especially for the CVT), accident history, and general cosmetic condition. Models with All-Wheel Control (AWC) and the more feature-rich SE trim usually hold their value slightly better than the basic ES FWD versions.
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Cost of Ownership
The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is generally an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs are typically average or slightly below for its class, thanks to good safety ratings and moderate performance. Fuel costs are low, with impressive EPA ratings of 24-31 MPG. Routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations) is affordable, and common parts are readily available.
However, potential repair costs for the CVT, if it fails out of warranty, can be substantial, representing the largest long-term cost wildcard. Aside from this, major repairs are not unusually frequent. Overall, its good fuel economy and reasonable standard maintenance make it a relatively cost-effective choice for long-term ownership, provided the CVT is well-maintained.
However, potential repair costs for the CVT, if it fails out of warranty, can be substantial, representing the largest long-term cost wildcard. Aside from this, major repairs are not unusually frequent. Overall, its good fuel economy and reasonable standard maintenance make it a relatively cost-effective choice for long-term ownership, provided the CVT is well-maintained.
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Safety Rating
NHTSA
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Recalls & Defects
Seat Belts
Recall date
2014-11-21
Recall no.
14v744000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013-2015 Outlander Sport Vehicles Manufactured July 20, 2012, TO July 23, 2014. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Front Passenger Seat Belt LAP END Attachment Fastener MAY NOT BE Torqued TO Specification, and THE Fastener MAY Loosen With Time.
Consequence
A Loosened and Weakened Fastener MAY NOT BE Capable OF Withstanding THE Load Forces Associated With A Vehicle Crash, Leaving THE Seat Occupant Insufficiently Restrained and Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Mitsubishi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Seat Belt LAP END Attachment Fastener, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 1, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Mitsubishi Customer Service AT 1-714-372-6000. Mitsubishi's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-14-011.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:motor
Recall date
2016-10-31
Recall no.
16v792000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mmna) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2015 Outlander Sport Vehicles Manufactured August 26, 2010, TO January 5, 2015. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Water MAY Drop Between THE Hood and THE Windshield and Leak Into THE Wiper Motor Breathing Hole. THE Water MAY Cause Internal Corrosion OF THE Windshield Wiper Motor and THE Possible Failure OF THE Motor.
Consequence
Failure OF THE Wiper Motor CAN Cause A Loss OF Visibility, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mmna Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Wiper Motor, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer HAS Begun THE Recall, BUT Parts ARE NOT YET Available; A Second Notice Will BE Sent When Parts ARE Available. Owners MAY Contact Mmna Customer Service AT 1-888-648-7820. Mmna's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-16-010.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
Recall date
2018-02-09
Recall no.
18v103000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mmna) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2016 Outlander Sport Vehicles. Water MAY Enter Between THE Hood and Windshield and Cause THE Front Wiper Link Ball Joint TO Corrode, Possibly Resulting IN THE Wiper Link Separating and THE Wipers Becoming Inoperative.
Consequence
Loss OF Wiper Function CAN Reduce Visibility and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mmna Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE ROD OF THE Wiper Link and THE Wiper Motor Crank Arm, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin April 10, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Mmna Customer Service AT 1-888-648-7820. Mmna's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-18-004.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Parking Brake
Recall date
2018-01-26
Recall no.
18v070000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mmna) IS Recalling Certain 2014-2016 Outlander and 2013-2016 Outlander Sport Vehicles. Water MAY Enter THE Rear Brake Calipers Causing THE Parking Brake Actuator Shafts TO Corrode and Possibly Bind.
Consequence
IF THE Parking Brake Actuator Shaft Binds, THE Parking Brake MAY NOT Engage or Disengage Fully. IF THE Parking Brake Does NOT Engage Properly, THE Vehicle MAY Move Unexpectedly IF IT IS Parked ON A Slope, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mmna Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Rear Brake Calipers and Replace THE Parking Brake Boot and Lever or THE Brake Caliper Body, AS Necessary. Dealers Will Also Replace THE Piston Assembly OF THE Rear Brake Caliper. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin March 27, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Mmna Customer Service AT 1-888-648-7820. Mmna's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-18-002.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower ARM
Recall date
2020-05-18
Recall no.
20v279000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mmna) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2010 Lancer, 2009-2010 Lancer Sportback, 2008-2013 Outlander, and 2011-2016 Outlander Sport Vehicles Originally Sold IN, or Ever Registered IN, Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. THE Front Lower Control Arms MAY Detach DUE TO THE Front Cross Member Corroding From Salt Water Exposure Such AS From Road Salt Use.
Consequence
A Detached Front Control ARM CAN Result IN A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mmna Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Front Cross Members. Depending ON THE Level OF Existing Corrosion, Either A Sealing/Anti-Corrosion Agent Will BE Applied or THE Front Cross Member Will BE Replaced With A NEW One. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 7, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Mmna Customer Service AT 1-888-648-7820. Mmna's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-20-003.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:frame and Members
Recall date
2020-05-18
Recall no.
20v279000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mmna) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2010 Lancer, 2009-2010 Lancer Sportback, 2008-2013 Outlander, and 2011-2016 Outlander Sport Vehicles Originally Sold IN, or Ever Registered IN, Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. THE Front Lower Control Arms MAY Detach DUE TO THE Front Cross Member Corroding From Salt Water Exposure Such AS From Road Salt Use.
Consequence
A Detached Front Control ARM CAN Result IN A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mmna Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Front Cross Members. Depending ON THE Level OF Existing Corrosion, Either A Sealing/Anti-Corrosion Agent Will BE Applied or THE Front Cross Member Will BE Replaced With A NEW One. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 7, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Mmna Customer Service AT 1-888-648-7820. Mmna's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-20-003.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower ARM
Recall date
2021-03-05
Recall no.
21v144000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mmna) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2015 Outlander Sport Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. THE Front Lower Control Arms MAY Detach DUE TO THE Front Cross Member Corroding From Salt Water Exposure, Such AS From Road Salt Use.
Consequence
A Detached Front Control ARM CAN Result IN A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mmna Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Front Cross Members. Depending ON THE Level OF Existing Corrosion, Either A Sealing/Anti-Corrosion Agent Will BE Applied, or THE Front Cross Member Will BE Replaced With A NEW One, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Mmna Customer Service AT 1-888-648-7820. Mmna's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-21-001. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Number 20v-279. Owners NOT Previously Notified Under 20v-279 Were Notified ON March 22, 2021.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:frame and Members
Recall date
2021-03-05
Recall no.
21v144000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mmna) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2015 Outlander Sport Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. THE Front Lower Control Arms MAY Detach DUE TO THE Front Cross Member Corroding From Salt Water Exposure, Such AS From Road Salt Use.
Consequence
A Detached Front Control ARM CAN Result IN A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Mmna Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Front Cross Members. Depending ON THE Level OF Existing Corrosion, Either A Sealing/Anti-Corrosion Agent Will BE Applied, or THE Front Cross Member Will BE Replaced With A NEW One, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Mmna Customer Service AT 1-888-648-7820. Mmna's Number FOR This Recall IS Sr-21-001. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Number 20v-279. Owners NOT Previously Notified Under 20v-279 Were Notified ON March 22, 2021.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Insurance
Insurance for a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport competes in the highly contested compact crossover segment, facing rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek, Nissan Juke, Kia Soul, and indirectly, the Mazda CX-5 (which is generally a step up in refinement).
Performance: Compared to rivals, the Outlander Sport's 2.0-liter engine often feels underpowered, especially when paired with the CVT. The Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Crosstrek (with its standard AWD and boxer engine character) generally offer more engaging driving dynamics and better acceleration. The Nissan Juke, particularly in turbocharged variants, can also feel more spirited. The Outlander Sport's strength lies in its nimble city maneuverability rather than outright power.
Features: For its price, the Outlander Sport offers a solid set of standard features, especially in the SE trim, including xenon headlights, heated seats, and a rearview camera. However, rivals like the CX-5 offered a more premium interior feel and, in some cases, more sophisticated infotainment options. The Kia Soul often provided more interior space and quirky design. The Subaru Crosstrek's standard AWD and higher ground clearance gave it an edge in light off-roading.
Reliability: Reliability for the Outlander Sport is generally considered average. While its 2.0L engine is robust, the CVT can be a long-term concern if not meticulously maintained. Rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-5 often have a stronger reputation for long-term durability and fewer powertrain-related issues, though all vehicles have their quirks.
Price: This is arguably where the Outlander Sport shines. Both new and on the used market, it typically undercuts many of its competitors, offering a strong value proposition for buyers on a budget.
Alternatives:
Performance: Compared to rivals, the Outlander Sport's 2.0-liter engine often feels underpowered, especially when paired with the CVT. The Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Crosstrek (with its standard AWD and boxer engine character) generally offer more engaging driving dynamics and better acceleration. The Nissan Juke, particularly in turbocharged variants, can also feel more spirited. The Outlander Sport's strength lies in its nimble city maneuverability rather than outright power.
Features: For its price, the Outlander Sport offers a solid set of standard features, especially in the SE trim, including xenon headlights, heated seats, and a rearview camera. However, rivals like the CX-5 offered a more premium interior feel and, in some cases, more sophisticated infotainment options. The Kia Soul often provided more interior space and quirky design. The Subaru Crosstrek's standard AWD and higher ground clearance gave it an edge in light off-roading.
Reliability: Reliability for the Outlander Sport is generally considered average. While its 2.0L engine is robust, the CVT can be a long-term concern if not meticulously maintained. Rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-5 often have a stronger reputation for long-term durability and fewer powertrain-related issues, though all vehicles have their quirks.
Price: This is arguably where the Outlander Sport shines. Both new and on the used market, it typically undercuts many of its competitors, offering a strong value proposition for buyers on a budget.
Alternatives:
- Better Alternatives (if budget allows): A used Mazda CX-5 (for superior driving dynamics, interior quality, and power), a Subaru Crosstrek (for standard AWD, better off-road capability, and strong reliability reputation), or even a Honda HR-V (though a slightly newer model, it offers better space and refinement).
- Similar Alternatives: The Nissan Juke (for its unique styling and similar compact footprint, though base models can also feel underpowered) or the Kia Soul (offering more interior space and a distinctive design, albeit with a less traditional 'SUV' feel).
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport a Good Wagon?
The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is ideal for urban commuters, first-time crossover owners, or budget-conscious buyers seeking a compact, maneuverable SUV with good fuel economy and available all-wheel drive. It suits those who prioritize practicality and affordability over spirited performance or luxurious interiors.
It is generally worth buying, but strongly as a used vehicle, as its significant depreciation makes it a great value proposition now. Focus on SE trims for enhanced features like heated seats, a rearview camera, and 18-inch wheels, which add comfort and convenience without a large price premium.
A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, particularly focusing on the Continuously Variable Transmission's condition and maintenance history, is absolutely crucial. If you find a well-maintained example with a healthy CVT, the 2014 Outlander Sport can serve as a dependable and economical choice.
It is generally worth buying, but strongly as a used vehicle, as its significant depreciation makes it a great value proposition now. Focus on SE trims for enhanced features like heated seats, a rearview camera, and 18-inch wheels, which add comfort and convenience without a large price premium.
A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, particularly focusing on the Continuously Variable Transmission's condition and maintenance history, is absolutely crucial. If you find a well-maintained example with a healthy CVT, the 2014 Outlander Sport can serve as a dependable and economical choice.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.