Image: Mitsubishi SA
In South Africa’s fiercely competitive compact SUV market, where value-driven options like the Renault Duster and Kia Seltos reign supreme, the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Aspire CVT emerges as a refined Japanese contender.
Launched early this year as the successor to the long-serving ASX, this model – known globally as the Xforce – starts at an inviting 2025 Outlander Sport price of R429 990 for the base GL trim, with the Aspire CVT variant hitting R479 990. This positions it squarely against the 2025 Outlander Sport vs Renault Duster debate, offering premium touches without the turbocharged premium. But does it deliver on 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport specs and reliability in our pothole-ridden realities? Let’s explore this 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport review.
Powering the Outlander Sport Aspire CVT is a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder MIVEC petrol engine, churning out 77 kW and 141 Nm of torque. Paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it sends drive to the front wheels, achieving a claimed 0-100 km/h in 13.6 seconds and a top speed of 175 km/h. While not a powerhouse – expect a familiar CVT drone under hard acceleration – more than adequate for Joburg commutes or N1 highway overtakes, with no excessive planning needed.
Fuel efficiency shines at around 7.8 L/100 km combined, translating to solid 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport L/100 km figures that undercut thirstier options. For those eyeing Mitsubishi Outlander Sport CVT problems, early reports praise its smoothness, though long-term durability will tell in our dusty conditions.
On the road, the Outlander Sport Aspire CVT impresses with its 193 mm ground clearance, ideal for tackling gravel backroads or urban speed humps. MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam rear provide a compliant ride, absorbing imperfections better than the firmer Kia Seltos. Selectable drive modes (Normal, Wet, Gravel, Mud) on Aspire and above enhance versatility for light off-roading, while Active Yaw Control keeps things planted.
Braking is confident with disc setups all round, and the electro-chromatic rearview mirror aids in glare-heavy Highveld summers. In the 2025 Outlander Sport vs Kia Seltos showdown, the Mitsubishi edges out on ride comfort, though the Korean’s turbo pep might sway thrill-seekers.
The interior of the 2025 Outlander Sport interior is a highlight, boasting a modern cabin with faux-leather upholstery, mocha accents, and ample space for five. Rear legroom leads the class at over 900 mm, with reclining seats and ISOFIX points for family hauls. Cargo space measures 480 litres behind the seats, expanding to 1 200 litres folded – perfect for braai gear or weekend getaways.
The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside Bluetooth and a six-speaker setup. Dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and ambient lighting elevate the Aspire, while the Outlander Sport infotainment Apple CarPlay integration feels seamless. Materials are a cut above the hard plastics of yore, though rivals like the Hyundai Creta offer plusher finishes.
Safety earns nods with a six-airbag setup (including curtains on Aspire), blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and tyre pressure monitoring. Stability control, hill-start assist, and rain-sensing wipers are standard, contributing to strong 2025 Outlander Sport safety ratings – though local NCAP testing is pending. Rear parking sensors and a camera add urban ease, but adaptive cruise is absent, a gap versus the feature-packed Duster.
Mitsubishi’s legendary 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport reliability is backed by a five-year/unlimited km warranty and three-year/45 000 km service plan (15 000 km intervals), plus roadside assistance. Ownership costs remain low, with complimentary services easing the load amid rising fuel prices.
Yet, in a segment buzzing with the VW T-Cross and Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, the Outlander Sport Aspire CVT’s modest power and FWD-only setup (no AWD here) might not thrill off-road purists. The 2025 Outlander Sport acceleration 0-100 km/h lags turbo foes, and while 2025 Outlander Sport cargo space impresses, boot access could be wider. It’s a four-star gem for urban families valuing efficiency and warranty over fireworks – check 2025 Outlander Sport used prices for deals under R450k.
