Ben Stewart at Popular Mechanics asks us Does it stack up against competitors from Hyundai and Nissan? We think there’s more than enough room in the small-utility market if it grows by 480% (like Mitsubishi forecasts). In many regards the Sport is a just a shortened Outlander and we know it is a good platform, but the eco-friendly naturally aspirated 4B11 won’t make this a barnstormer. Luckily everyone is anxiously looking for a 4B11T and maybe Mitsubishi will get the message.

Entry-level crossovers like the new Outlander Sport deliver good value. The Sport won’t be in Mitsubishi dealerships until October, but the company says the ES will start at less than $19,000, and even the heavily equipped SE probably won’t top $25,000. Fuel economy is promised to be equally competitive, as ES models should deliver 31 mpg on the highway thanks in part to a slippery 0.32 coefficient of drag. The Outlander Sport is certainly an attractive crossover, with a supple suspension and smart interior, but it would be even more attractive with a turbocharged 237 hp engine under the hood. Let’s hope a Ralliart version is in the works.

With the Lancer Evolution likely turning hybrid-diesel (yes really) there might be more chance for the 4B11T to find its way into the Outlander Sport. We’ll be first in line for a Evolander Sport, thankyouverymuch.