OUTLANDER CLOSER TO ITS PEAK

Once you get a look beyond its fresh angular appearance, the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SEL SUV leaves you feeling like the engineers haven’t quite finished the refit.

I’ve tested several Outlanders — and for all the good things the full-sized SUV offers, the Sport model felt like it was lacking.

But fear not: Reports indicate the 2018 Outlander Sport will get the missing upgrades — notably a 7-inch Smartphone Link which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Look too for a Touring package that bundles the panoramic sunroof, a quieter ride and updated safety features with a lanedeparture warning feature.

With so many excellent choices in the small SUV category, including the

Honda HR-V, Mazda CX3, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson and Subaru CrossTrek, the 2017 Mitsubishi was already fighting an uphill battle without factoring in the high price tag. Our SEL tester hit the road on the high side at $26,590.

The Sport SEL’s interior can be a bit Spartan, with only a few soft-touch surfaces. Although the design makes for a bit of a utilitarian feel, the driver’s cockpit is laid out nicely, the infotainment center and controls are well-placed, and the sporty aluminum pedals add a touch of flare.

The 2.4-liter inline 4 puts out 168 hp and the ondemand four-wheel-drive is spun through a Continuous Variable Transmission. The ride on 18-inch alloy wheels can be a bit jittery and road bumps are pronounced. But once in AWD, the SUV calms down and provides a more solid-feeling ride.

The short wheelbase makes for excellent city maneuverability and parking was a breeze. A backup camera helps in those tight spots.

Although the engine is peppy, the fuel mileage is below class averages at 22/27 mpg and the Sport may be better served with a small turbo like some others in this class.

The chair-like driving position provides an excellent field of vision and the simple two-gauge dash with an info box is easy to read.

The rear seats have a simple fold-down mechanism and created a goodsized cargo area and the lift gate is well-balanced and can be operated with one hand.

The Outlander Sport may never challenge for class sales leader but it’s worth a test drive when shopping the category because it does offer some nice standard features.

But if you can wait a year, the 2018 upgrades may be worth it.

STAFF PHOTO BY JIM MAHONEY NEARLY: Mitsubishi’s new Outlander Sport lacks the feel which its competitors have included in their SUVs.

STAFF PHOTO BY JIM MAHONEY KEEP IT SIMPLE: While not barren, the 2017 Outlander is missing elements that will be in next year’s model.