Hey guys,

I am strongly considering a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport for a Spring 2017 purchase, and had a question about how the MPG was calculated. For the 2015 2.0L 2WD model, 25C/32H is the quote from the manufacturer. The 4WD option, same engine, gets 24C/30H.

My question is this: With the 4WD option, did they do mixed testing with the system enabled, or would this be entirely 2WD operation? Does the presence of a 4WD system hurt fuel economy even if it is disengaged? How big is the hit to efficiency if the 4WD system is left in Auto? I'm seeing 4WD versions of the 14/15 models that would be in my price range, used, low mileage, and would be willing to take the small hit to MPG for the 4WD option.

If this is a stupid question, I apologize in advance. Don't know much about 4WD vehicles, and this would be my first. Thanks for your time!

 

My wife has a '15 Outlander Sport AWD and she gets very close to or better than what the window sticker says. When you run in 4 auto, it defaults to fwd until the rear tires are needed. She runs 2wd in the summer and when the snow hits, leaves it in 4 auto.