Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Mileage: An In-Depth Look at Its Efficiency and Performance

Is the Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel-Efficient Enough for Your Needs?

The Mitsubishi Outlander has long been a reliable choice in the compact SUV segment. With its solid build, impressive features, and attractive design, it’s clear why the Outlander has found its place among SUVs. But in today’s car market, buyers are looking for more than just looks and comfort; they want fuel efficiency. If you’re interested in how the Mitsubishi Outlander performs on fuel efficiency, you’re in the right place.

Mitsubishi Outlander Overview

Before diving into mileage and efficiency let’s talk about what the Outlander brings to the table.

• Spacious Interior: The Outlander is known for having one of the roomiest interiors in its class, which can be a significant advantage for families or anyone who needs extra space.
• Powertrain Options: Mitsubishi offers several powertrain options, including a hybrid version (PHEV), allowing you to pick what fits your driving style.
• Comfort & Tech: You’ll find a good range of tech features in the Outlander, from an intuitive infotainment system to safety features like lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control.

"The Outlander provides a unique balance between fuel efficiency and comfort that’s hard to find in other SUVs," says Alex Collantes, a seasoned Mitsubishi owner and automotive enthusiast.

How Good is the Fuel Mileage on the Mitsubishi Outlander?

When it comes to fuel mileage, Mitsubishi has made significant improvements in recent years. But let’s get specific on what kind of mileage you can actually expect.

Standard Gasoline Outlander

For the gasoline-only Mitsubishi Outlander, the official EPA ratings for fuel mileage are:

• City: Approximately 24-25 MPG
• Highway: Around 30-31 MPG
• Combined: Average of 27 MPG

These numbers are fairly competitive within the compact SUV class. However, real-world driving conditions can impact these figures. For instance:

• City Driving: You might find that actual city mileage hovers closer to 22 MPG due to stop-and-go traffic.
• Highway: On a clear highway, some drivers have reported achieving up to 33 MPG.

Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is an exciting option if you want better fuel economy and reduced emissions.

• Electric-only Range: Up to 24 miles per charge
• Combined Hybrid Mode: Approximately 26 MPG

The electric-only range is a major plus for those with short commutes. By using the EV mode for short trips and city driving, you can drastically reduce your fuel consumption. But remember, the 24-mile range may vary depending on speed and driving style.

Outlander PHEV: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly: Lower emissions and fuel costs
• Quiet operation: Runs nearly silent in electric mode
• Versatile charging options: Can be charged at home or at public EV stations

Cons:

• Limited electric range: 24 miles may not be enough for all daily commutes
• Higher price tag: The PHEV version costs more upfront than the gasoline model
• Reduced cargo space: Battery placement takes up some of the rear storage

Real-World Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Economy

When you get behind the wheel of an Outlander, how does it perform in real life? Fuel economy can often vary from the official EPA ratings due to driving habits, weather, and other factors. Here’s what drivers are saying:

What Drivers Like About Outlander’s Fuel Efficiency

• Consistent Efficiency: Many drivers note that the Outlander maintains good fuel economy even with heavier loads.
• Smooth Highway Driving: On longer trips the Outlander can perform quite well giving drivers a solid 30+ MPG.
• Eco Mode: The Eco Mode feature helps drivers optimize fuel economy by adjusting throttle response and air conditioning usage.

Potential Drawbacks for Fuel Efficiency

While the Outlander offers good mileage for an SUV there are a few downsides:

1. City Driving Impact: Fuel economy can drop notably in stop-and-go traffic.
2. All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Choosing AWD can reduce overall fuel economy by about 1-2 MPG.
3. Battery Charging for PHEV: The PHEV version requires regular charging to maximize efficiency, which might not be practical for all drivers.

Tips to Maximize Your Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Efficiency

If you’re looking to get the most out of your Outlander’s fuel tank, here are a few tips:

• Utilize Eco Mode: The Eco Mode on the Outlander is designed to reduce fuel consumption by moderating throttle input and air conditioning.
• Maintain Optimal Tire Pressure: Ensuring your tires are properly inflated can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.
• Regular Maintenance: Routine services such as oil changes and air filter replacements keep your engine running efficiently.
• Lighten the Load: Avoid carrying unnecessary weight, as this can decrease fuel efficiency.

Mitsubishi Outlander vs Competitors: Fuel Mileage Comparison

Let’s compare the Outlander’s fuel economy with other popular SUVs:

1. Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 offers similar fuel efficiency at around 27 MPG combined for the standard gas model.
2. Honda CR-V: Honda’s CR-V delivers 28 MPG combined for its gas model, slightly edging out the Outlander.
3. Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 is known for its sporty drive but comes with a modest 26 MPG combined, which is close to the Outlander’s rating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I improve the fuel efficiency of my Mitsubishi Outlander?

Use the Eco Mode drive conservatively and keep up with regular maintenance. Following these steps can help you achieve optimal fuel efficiency.

What is the best driving condition for fuel mileage in an Outlander?

The Outlander tends to perform best in highway driving conditions with a light load and Eco Mode engaged. Avoiding heavy traffic and city streets can also yield better fuel economy.

Is the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV worth it for city drivers?

If your daily commute is within the PHEV’s 24-mile electric range you can see significant fuel savings. Otherwise the limited electric range might not be as beneficial in city driving with frequent stops.

Final Thoughts on Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Mileage

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a well-rounded SUV that offers decent fuel efficiency for its size and powertrain options. Whether you go for the standard gasoline model or the PHEV variant the Outlander delivers a balance of performance and fuel savings. The PHEV model’s electric range can benefit those with short daily commutes but it comes with a higher upfront cost.

In the end if you’re after a compact SUV with reliable mileage an array of features and competitive pricing the Mitsubishi Outlander is worth a closer look.