The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a compact crossover SUV that packs a lot of versatility and capability into its affordable and fuel-efficient package. One area that makes the Outlander Sport so versatile is its towing capacity, allowing owners to haul trailers, boats, ATVs and more with ease. But to get the most out of the Outlander Sport’s towing abilities, it’s important to understand the factory tow rating and tips for maximizing towing capacity safely and effectively.
Outlander Sport Towing Capacity Overview
The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs when properly equipped. This allows the Outlander Sport to tow small trailers, watercraft like jet skis and small fishing boats, motorcycles and ATVs, and small campers or pop-up trailers with ease.
The Outlander Sport’s tow rating applies when the vehicle is equipped with the available towing package. This includes a trailer hitch and associated wiring to power trailer lights and electric brakes. Towing capacity remains 2,000 lbs regardless of engine choice or drivetrain configuration.
What Can an Outlander Sport Tow?
With a 2,000 lb tow rating, the Outlander Sport can tow a variety of recreational equipment and small trailers. Here are some examples of items that can be towed safely within the limits:
- Small utility trailers up to 2,000 lbs gross trailer weight
- Jet skis, wave runners or other personal watercraft
- Aluminum fishing boats up to 18 ft in length
- Motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATVs
- Pop-up campers and small trailers under 2,000 lbs loaded weight
- Enclosed snowmobile, golf cart or motorcycle trailers
Heavier items like large travel trailers, fifth wheel campers and larger fishing boats will exceed the Outlander Sport’s capacity and should be towed with a larger truck or SUV instead. But for most light recreational towing duties, the Outlander Sport has enough brawn.
Tips for Towing at Max Capacity
While the Outlander Sport can tow up to 2,000 lbs in ideal conditions, real-world towing can subject the vehicle to stresses from terrain, weather and driving style. Here are some tips for optimizing your Outlander Sport’s towing capacity while staying safe:
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Know your weights: Weigh your Outlander Sport and loaded trailer on a scale at a truck stop to confirm you’re within all weight limits. This includes maximum tongue weight (200 lbs for the Outlander Sport).
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Distribute weight appropriately: Load the trailer so 10-15% of total weight is on the tongue. Heavy items should be placed close to the axle with lighter items towards the front.
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Adjust for altitude: At high altitudes, air density decreases which impacts engine power. Reduce towing capacity by 10% for every 5,000 feet above sea level.
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Limit passengers and cargo: The more weight in passengers and cargo you carry, the less capacity you have for towing. Keep passenger and cargo load light.
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Use tow/haul mode: This changes transmission shift points to reduce gear hunting and ease strain when towing.
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Watch transmission temperature: Towing puts more strain on the transmission. If it starts to overheat, turn on the A/C to help cool the fluid and take a break to allow it to cool if needed.
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Maintain speed: Towing puts more strain on the drivetrain, so maintain modest speeds below highway limits to reduce strain.
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Allow extra distance: Increase following distance to at least 4 seconds when towing to allow more room for braking.
Outlander Sport Towing Equipment
To maximize towing performance, Mitsubishi offers a factory-approved towing package for the Outlander Sport that includes:
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Trailer hitch: A Class I hitch with 1-1/4″ receiver tube mounts securely to the Outlander Sport’s frame. Check max tongue weight of 200 lbs.
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Wiring harness: Provides electrical connection for trailer brake controls and lights. Includes 4-pin flat and 7-pin round connectors.
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Transmission cooler: An auxiliary transmission fluid cooler prevents overheating when towing.
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Engine oil cooler: Adds an extra oil cooler for the engine to maintain optimal temperatures under load.
The towing package is available either factory-installed on new Outlander Sports, or can be purchased together and installed after purchase. Either way, using factory towing equipment maintains the vehicle’s warranty and provides optimal safety and performance.
Towing Safety Tips
Safely towing at the Outlander Sport’s maximum capacity requires care and preparation:
- Use safety chains crossed under the trailer tongue as a backup connection.
- Verify trailer light operation, brake activation and turn signals before each trip.
- Check tire pressures on both the Outlander Sport and trailer per manufacturer specifications.
- Confirm side mirrors provide good rear visibility around the trailer.
- Load the trailer correctly with 10-15% of weight on the hitch.
- Distribute weight evenly from side to side.
- Secure cargo inside the trailer to prevent shifting.
- Check brakes for both the tow vehicle and trailer.
- Adjust driving habits for increased stopping distance and limited acceleration when towing.
- Allow extra space for turning, backing up and cornering with a trailer.
- Verify you stay within GCWR, GVWR, max tongue weight and towing capacity limits.
Following basic safety practices helps ensure you and your Outlander Sport stay safe and secure while towing up to the maximum rated capacity.
Why Choose an Outlander Sport for Towing?
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport makes an excellent light-duty tow vehicle for several reasons:
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Value pricing – As one of the most affordable compact crossovers, the Outlander Sport delivers utility without breaking the bank.
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All-weather capability – Available AWC all-wheel drive provides grip and stability when towing in slippery conditions.
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Mitsubishi reliability – Mitsubishi vehicles are engineered for durability, longevity and dependability.
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Good fuel economy – Even while towing, the Outlander Sport delivers excellent MPG to save money.
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Responsive handling – Quick steering and a tight turning radius make navigating tricky spots easy.
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Seating for 5 – Room for passengers and gear make the Outlander Sport practical.
For savvy buyers needing an economical SUV with real work capability, the Outlander Sport is an ideal choice – especially thanks to its 2,000 lb tow rating. While abiding by weight limits and towing safety practices, owners can utilize their Outlander Sport’s maximum towing capacity to enjoy all kinds of adventures.
