The Mitsubishi Outlander has been providing consistent performance in one stylish package since it was first introduced in 2001. Mitsubishi gave the popular mid-size crossover an update last year, and now the Outlander is set to get another design overhaul for next year’s model.
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander was officially unveiled last month at the New York International Auto Show. Based on what we saw, we’re confident that 2016 will be a great year for drivers shopping for a Mitsubishi in Miami.
Here’s everything we know about the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander so far:
Exterior Design Updates
Mitsubishi says that more than 100 design improvements have been made to the new Outlander, some in the look of the crossover and some in its mechanical structure. One of the biggest updates made to the exterior is what Mitsubishi is calling the “Dynamic Shield.” This new design language has been created to make the Outlander look stronger and safer. The look is both more imposing on the road and more comforting to those driving it.
The lines of the Outlander have been toned down, so there is no longer a pointy front end or other harsh angles. While some have complained about this more modest look, others love the versatility it offers.
Other exterior updates include a redesigned rear end, new front fenders and LED tail lights. Chrome accents have been added throughout, creating a sleek appearance. Fog lights are positioned low along the front bumper, creating accents for the large center and grille. Arch moldings around the wheel house frame the 18-inch alloy wheels.
Some trim levels of the new Outlander also feature LED head lights, a windshield de-icer and power-folding side mirrors.
Interior Updates
The interior of the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander has been overhauled to match the exterior.
The new Outlander gets an updated steering wheel, higher-quality upholstery and trim materials that are softer to the touch, and a new display for the navigation and audio system. The steering wheel can tilt or telescope so drivers can find just the right comfortable position. The driver’s seat and passenger seats also offer great leg room and head room.
The Outlander seats up to seven and has three rows of seating. With the 2016 update, the second row has been modified for easier folding to accommodate large cargo. The seats fold completely flat, and the whole row slides forward and backward to accommodate both cargo and passengers. The third row of seating also folds flat. A lower floor also makes it easier to load cargo.
Even more cargo room is provided by the storage compartments under the floor and in the side panels. Drivers can safely store valuables such as laptops, phones, purses and more.
Thicker glass is used to reduce the noise from the road, helping to create a quieter and more comfortable ride.
Other interior features on the new Outlander include automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped shift knob, power windows and locks, steering wheel mounted controls and more. Some trim levels include an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Some of these features carry over from the previous Outlander model, but others are totally new or a slight modification to previous features.
Under the Hood
Mitsubishi hasn’t yet revealed any details about the power train, such as the size of the engine or any performance specs. However, company officials did say that the new Outlander has received a new continuously variable transmission that is supposed to give it better acceleration and performance, including torque delivery. The 2015 Outlander has a 2.4-liter Inline 4 engine that puts out 166 horsepower and 162 pounds per feet of torque, and industry insiders expect that the 2016 model will have the same or a similar engine.
Mitsubishi has also focused on created a quieter and smoother ride with the new Outlander. As such, the 2016 model has been given an updated suspension system that reduces vibration and noise. The Outlander has also been designed with more high-tensile steel to make it both lighter and stronger.
Other changes that have been introduced to reduce noise and vibration include rear differential dampers, a noise-isolating windshield, and more insulation throughout the cabin.
Overall, drivers should expect the new Outlander to perform better and to deliver a better quality ride. Those are benefits that any driver can appreciate, whether headed to the office or out for a weekend of camping.
Safety Features
The Outlander has never scrimped on safety features, and the 2016 model introduces even more of them.
Some standard safety features include active stability control, tire-pressure monitoring, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, and hill start assist. Seven airbags are included for complete protection of the driver and passengers.
Advanced safety features include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help drivers to avoid accidents by providing more “eyes” all the way around the vehicle.
The 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander received top marks for safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The model was even named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. With the 2016 model continuing in the same tradition of excellence, we are sure it will perform just as well on future safety tests.
Mitsubishi has not yet released pricing details for the 2016 Outlander. However, the 2015 model is priced around $24,000, and we expected the new model to be priced in the same neighborhood.
A release date has not yet been announced either, but industry insiders say that the new Outlander will likely go on sale later in the summer or fall.
