The 2014 model year of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport crossover is ready to hit the showrooms, boasting enhanced specifications, a “Top Safety Pick+” certificate from IIHS, and a proud “Made in America” label. The Outlander relies on its great value for money to survive in the fierce, unforgiving, and over-crowded compact crossover segment.

And that value is further enhanced in the new model with the addition of a whole host of new features. Some of the changes are more fundamental, like the improved sound insulation and engine balancing shaft, some are cosmetic, including an LED Daytime Running Lights Package, and some are for the convenience, like the new steering wheel with audio buttons, new headunit for the stereo, HD radio, black leather, MMC navigation, and rear-view camera.

Safety features – the main reason for the car’s great performance in IIHS tests – include a host of clever airbags even for your knees, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; Active Stability Control (ASC) with Hill Start Assist (HSA); Traction Control Logic (TCL); Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). There is even a brake override system that stops the car should both the accelerator and brake pedal be engaged at the same time.

Engine-wise, all 2014 Outlander models comes with a 148 horsepower DOHC 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit that can be paired to either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. The latter does 24 mpg city/31 mpg highway (2WD) and 24 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (4WD).