In a bid to stay relevant on the scene, Mitsubishi rolled out a freshened 2016 Outlander crossover at the New York Auto Show addressing some of the most vocal critics with bolder styling front and rear.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is arguably one of the also-ran Japanese brands most important models in North America. And if they are to succeed here in the long term, the Outlander three-row crossover SUV must.
So to get more people into the showroom to even get behind the wheel and test drive it, Mitsubishi gave it a new facial design called “Dynamic Shield”. Kind of a superhero reference, it means a bolder grille, bumpers and headlights.
New front fenders are added to frame the new look which features LED positioning lights. Trims along the doors and a new rear fascia are added to bring the new styling all around the perimeter. It’s all anchored with stylish new 18-inch alloy wheels.
The freshness fairy also gave the previously forgettable interior a sprinkle of magic which brings in higher quality soft-touch materials and an new steering wheel design. The center stack gets a new infotainment touchscreen system too.
The improvements Mitsubishi says also extend to new trim elements and materials on doors, dashboard, seating surfaces and the headliner. A welcome feature is a redesigned folding rear seat which promises to be easier to use.
It should be quieter too with what Mitsubishi says is over 100 engineering and design improvements to the chassis and interior build for better rigidity, ride quality and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. These range from thicker rear door glass and more sound insulation to improved weather stripping.
Engine choices are essentially the same as the 2015 model which include the venerable 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine with 166 horsepower and the optional 3.0 liter V6 which offers up 224 horsepower. Both engines fall a bit short of most competitors in terms of power.
An improved constantly variable transmission comes with four-cylinder models which the company says offers improved simulated shift feel. A six-speed automatic transmission comes with V6 models. Four-cylinder models come in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive, the V6 only with all-wheel-drive.
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander continues to be available with a host of driver-assistance systems that include forward collision warning with auto braking, lane departure warning and radar controlled cruise control.
These systems in addition to the Mitsubishi’s stout underlying structural safety systems are expected to bring the 2016 Outlander an IIHS “Top Safety Pick+” rating when it’s tested, as the 2015 model currently enjoys.
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander will arrive later this year at Mitsubishi dealerships with pricing to be announced closer to that time.
