I’m currently looking at either a 2018 Jeep Renegade Sport or a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2.4 SEL AWD.

I liked the feel and fit of the Jeep yesterday when I test drove it and almost had a deal done on it with my own financing through USAA....but the dealership insisted on doing the financing through their bank (local bank in this area) so they would get a $1500 incentive through Chrysler. They said I could refinance after four months if I wanted but it had to be their financing for the incentive. Either that, or put the $1500 down as part of the deal. So naturally I walked away.

A couple hours later another dealer here calls me and asks if I want to come in to look at the Outlander Sport. I said sure, and headed on down there. Well, when I got there they put me in a brand new 2017 2.4 SEL...which is almost the top of the line for the Outlander Sport.

Took it for a drive and was actually pretty impressed with it. I was really skeptical the whole time because of most professional reviews were negative, but at the same time, owner reviews were mostly positive.

So I’m really considering this small SUV to replace the Malibu I’m currently driving. It’s a decent car but I hate climbing in and out of it, especially in the winter when parking lots are slick with ice and slush. Not to mention no AWD or 4WD in the winter sucks around here.

So with all that said, does anyone have any experience with a newer Outlander Sport by chance, and care to give opinions either positive or negative?

I would get a Subaru Crosstrek over both. I wouldn't trust Chrysler or Mitsu personally.

The incentives on the Outlander Sport and this particular Jeep are really good right now. Subaru, pretty much non-existent right now. If I were to get a Subaru it would be Forester right now...but I will likely get an Ascent in a few years after it’s been out for a while.

They don't need incentives to sell the Subarus...

Also, the resale value on the Subaru will be significantly better and save you a ton of money in the long run.