Mitsubishi RVR Review
2017-2023
The Mitsubishi RVR (sold as the ASX or Outlander Sport in global markets) is an agile 5-seater compact crossover imported from Japan. Powered by responsive 1.8L 4J10 or 2.0L 4B11 MIVEC petrol engines, it offers 195 mm ground clearance, optional electronically controlled 4WD with Lock mode, and straightforward mechanical upkeep.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- High 195 mm ground clearance: Easily navigates steep urban speed bumps, deep potholes, and unpaved estate tracks.
- Sub-2,000 cc customs tax advantage: Qualifies for KRA 25% excise duty rate to deliver affordable landed costs.
- Electronically controlled 4WD selector: On-demand 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock modes provide strong wet-weather grip.
- Durable MIVEC powertrain: Simple, naturally aspirated engine design ensures low maintenance overhead.
What’s not so good
- CVT responsiveness under load: INVECS-III transmission revs high during steep upcountry climbs.
- Firm rear suspension tuning: Can feel bouncy over corrugated gravel roads when unladen.
Most popular: RVR G / Black Edition
5 doorsPetrolAutomatic
At a glance
- Model
- Mitsubishi RVR (GA4W Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Compact Crossover SUV
- Seating capacity
- 5 seats
- Fuel types
- Petrol (MIVEC)
- Engine sizes
- 1,798 cc (1.8L) / 1,998 cc (2.0L)
- Transmission
- INVECS-III 6-Speed Sport Mode CVT
- Drivetrain
- FWD or Electronically Controlled 4WD
- Ground clearance
- 195 mm
- Source market
- Japan (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 15.2 km/L (1.8L FWD) / 13.8 km/L (2.0L 4WD). Tank: 63 L (about 958 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 1,773 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,297 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 14,932
- Full tank (63 L)
- KES 14,298
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
M / G / Active Gear / Black Edition
- Setup
1.8L 4-cylinder petrol (139 hp / 172 Nm), INVECS-III CVT, FWD or 4WD, returning 15.2 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
The core Japanese export choice, delivering strong fuel economy and low tax overhead.
- Local consideration
Highly reliable engine requiring standard 5W-30 synthetic oil changes.
Package tiers
RVR trims range from practical M base packages to sporty Black Edition models.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| M | Base comfort | 16-inch alloy wheels, fabric seats, manual climate control, and touchscreen display. |
| G | Executive grade | 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, push-button start, leather steering wheel, and paddle shifters. |
| Active Gear | Outdoor adventure | Orange exterior accents, black alloy wheels, suede/leather water-repellent seats, and roof rails. |
| Black Edition | Dark luxury | Blacked-out front grille, dark 18-inch wheels, black roof liner, red interior stitching, and Rockford Fosgate audio. |
About the Mitsubishi RVR
Kenya strictly enforces a right-hand drive mandate and an 8-year age limit calculated from the exact month of assembly. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 RVR models sit comfortably inside the direct import window, 2018 units face month-by-month cutoff deadlines, while earlier models are traded on local dealer lots.
Both the 1.8L (1,798 cc) and 2.0L (1,998 cc) engines sit well under KRA's 2,500 cc threshold. This qualifies the RVR for Kenya's standard 25% excise duty tax bracket, keeping total import taxes significantly lower than larger 2.5L+ crossovers.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
