7 Reasons Why the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition Stands Out

The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition is here and ready to make waves in the competitive compact SUV market. It's got the attitude, the tech, and a little bit of ruggedness to appeal to adventurous drivers. This article breaks down everything you need to know about this new trim. We'll look at what makes the Trail Edition unique, highlight some pros and cons (with a bit of humor), and leave you with an insider's take on whether this is the right SUV for your garage.

What's New in the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has been a strong contender in the compact crossover segment for years, and the Trail Edition is its latest attempt to cater to the growing crowd of drivers who want an affordable, stylish SUV that can also handle some weekend adventures. Here are the notable updates and features in the 2024 Trail Edition:

A Rugged Twist on a Classic Crossover

The Trail Edition takes the familiar Outlander Sport and adds off-road-inspired elements. Think of it as the Outlander Sport that just came back from a hike. Mitsubishi didn't go wild with the design, but they added the right touches to give it a more "trail-ready" feel. Some exterior enhancements to note:

• Exclusive Trail Edition Badging: Because what's a special edition without some flashy branding?
• Black Roof Rails and Trim: The dark accents add to that rugged look, and let’s be honest – black just makes everything look cooler.
• 18-inch Alloy Wheels: Polished and ready for any terrain... or the local Starbucks drive-thru.

The Paint Colors to Choose From

The 2024 Outlander Sport Trail Edition comes in a few classic Mitsubishi colors:

1. White Diamond: A slick and clean white that shows off all those black accents.
2. Mercury Gray Metallic: Adds an understated, sleek look.
3. Alloy Silver Metallic: Because silver goes with everything, right?
4. Labrador Black Pearl: You can never go wrong with an all-black SUV.

Interior: Keeping It Comfortable & Practical

Moving inside the Trail Edition, the cabin stays true to the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport's functional layout. It’s still a compact crossover, so don't expect a limousine experience in the back seats, but there's a surprising amount of space and comfort in this vehicle.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Trail Edition boasts a 7-inch touchscreen that's simple and gets the job done – no frills, just what you need. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so you can have your favorite tunes or navigation apps right there.

Notable Interior Features

• Water-Resistant Fabric Upholstery: For when your off-road adventure ends with a bit of mud, which let’s face it – it probably will.
• Heated Front Seats: A cozy addition, especially if you live in a place where winters are harsh.
• Push-Button Start: Makes life a little easier when you're juggling keys, coffee, and life.

And let’s not forget the cargo space. With 21.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a total of 49.5 cubic feet with the seats folded down, you’ll have room for all your weekend gear – whether that’s a camping tent or just a pile of groceries.

Performance & Capability: The Good & the Not-So-Good

The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition is powered by a 2.0-liter MIVEC DOHC 4-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combo delivers 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. If you were expecting a racecar experience, you might be disappointed, but hey – it’s an SUV built for comfort and practicality, not drag racing.

Pros & Cons of Performance

Pros

1. Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Mitsubishi’s All-Wheel Control (AWC) system is standard in the Trail Edition, making it perfect for those who want a bit of adventure or live in areas with unpredictable weather.
2. Smooth Ride Quality: The Outlander Sport has always been known for its smooth ride, and the Trail Edition doesn’t disappoint. It soaks up bumps and keeps things comfortable for all passengers.
3. Impressive Fuel Economy: For an AWD SUV, the Trail Edition manages to return around 23 mpg city/29 mpg highway, which isn’t too shabby.

Cons (With a Laugh)

1. Not a Speed Demon: Let’s be real – with 148 horsepower, this SUV isn’t going to win any stoplight drag races. But who needs speed when you have heated seats?
2. CVT Groan: Continuously variable transmissions are known for that "drone" sound when accelerating. The Trail Edition's CVT is no different, and while it’s functional and helps with fuel efficiency, the noise might take a bit to get used to.
3. Trail-Ready?: The Trail Edition moniker suggests off-road prowess, but keep in mind – this isn’t a Jeep Wrangler. It can handle a gravel path and some light trails, but don't expect to conquer Moab.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety-wise, Mitsubishi has equipped the Outlander Sport Trail Edition with some solid features. While it’s not going to have every bell and whistle found in more expensive competitors, it covers the bases.

Standard Safety Features Include:

• Forward Collision Mitigation: A fancy term for automatic emergency braking.
• Lane Departure Warning: Helps keep you in line, literally.
• Automatic High Beams: Because you shouldn't have to think about turning your brights on and off.

Optional Safety Features are also available for those who want a little extra peace of mind:

• Blind-Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert

It’s not the most advanced system out there, but it’s solid for the price range.

Pricing: Affordable Adventure

One of the big selling points for the 2024 Outlander Sport Trail Edition is its price tag. Starting around $27,000, this SUV offers a lot of features for the money, especially considering its standard AWD and tech. It’s one of the most affordable ways to get a capable compact crossover without breaking the bank.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition vs. The Competition

So how does the 2024 Trail Edition stack up against some of its rivals? Let’s do a quick breakdown.

2024 Mazda CX-30

• Pros: Sporty handling, more powerful engine options, upscale interior.
• Cons: Smaller cargo space, higher price tag.
• Verdict: If you want something with a sportier feel and more power, the CX-30 is a solid pick. But you'll pay for those features.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek

• Pros: Standard AWD, off-road capability, strong resale value.
• Cons: Higher starting price, infotainment could be more user-friendly.
• Verdict: The Crosstrek is a strong contender for those who plan to go off the beaten path more often. However, it’s going to cost more than the Trail Edition.

2024 Kia Seltos

• Pros: Good cargo space, modern tech features, sharp design.
• Cons: Engine can be noisy, not as trail-focused.
• Verdict: The Seltos offers a good mix of space and features, but if you want something with a more rugged appeal, the Trail Edition still has an edge.

Alex Collantes’ Take on the 2024 Outlander Sport Trail Edition

When talking about the Trail Edition, Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast and blogger, had some interesting thoughts. "The Outlander Sport Trail Edition is like the Swiss Army knife of compact crossovers. It's not the fastest, or the most luxurious, but it does a little bit of everything – and it does it all without emptying your wallet."

Alex went on to say, "The AWD system is a huge plus for drivers in snowy or wet climates. And while it might not be a hardcore off-roader, it's more than capable of handling the rough trails on the weekend."

Potential Drawbacks: With a Wink and a Nod

Like any car, the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition isn't perfect. Here’s a light-hearted look at some of its quirks:

• Horsepower Isn’t Everything: Yes, the 2.0-liter engine isn’t going to thrill you. But think of it this way – you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery as you accelerate to highway speeds.
• Infotainment "Simplicity": The 7-inch screen is intuitive but basic. If you’re looking for a futuristic, spaceship-like infotainment system, this isn’t it. Then again, fewer distractions, right?
• Plastic, Plastic Everywhere: Some drivers might notice that the interior features a lot of hard plastic. It’s durable, sure – but luxury is not the goal here. Still, think of it as "adventure-proof".

Final Thoughts: Is the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition for You?

The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition is an excellent choice for buyers who want a versatile, affordable compact crossover that doesn't shy away from a bit of adventure. It’s not the flashiest, fastest, or most high-tech option on the market – but that’s not what it's trying to be. It’s practical, comfortable, and capable of tackling more than just your daily commute.

So if you're after an SUV that's ready for the occasional off-road trip, has the convenience of all-wheel drive, and won't leave you with a massive car payment, the Outlander Sport Trail Edition is definitely worth a look.

Quick Summary: Why the 2024 Trail Edition Is Worth Your Attention

1. Standard All-Wheel Drive: Tackles inclement weather or light trails with ease.
2. Affordable Price: Starting at around $27,000 makes it one of the more wallet-friendly options.
3. User-Friendly Tech: Straightforward infotainment keeps things simple.
4. Fuel Efficiency: Competitive MPG for a compact crossover.
5. Rugged Design Touches: Black accents and trail-ready branding for a unique look.
6. Comfortable Ride: Smooth driving experience for daily commutes or weekend getaways.
7. Peace of Mind: Solid safety features included at an affordable price.

Conclusion

The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Trail Edition isn’t here to revolutionize the crossover market, but it provides a well-rounded package for buyers who value versatility, affordability, and a touch of rugged style. It's an everyday crossover with a bit of weekend warrior spirit – a car that makes life just a little bit more adventurous, without the pressure of being perfect.

References

1. Mitsubishi Official Site - https://www.mitsubishicars.com
2. MotorTrend's Compact SUV Reviews
3. Personal Insights from Alex Collantes - Automotive Blogger