New for 2016
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport features some extensive exterior upgrades, from a new grille design that makes the front bumper almost seem to disappear in the center to power-folding, heated side mirrors with turn signals.
Sporty Spice
As a midseries refresh, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport brings serious style to an already impressive vehicle. Chrome accents and the double grille give it an attractive look, while the same performance under the hood keeps this SUV running alongside its competitors.
The redesign takes an already good vehicle and gives it an updated look for the New Year.
Powertrains and Performance
Buyers can choose Outlander Sport SUVs with either a 2.0-liter or 2.4-liter MIVEC DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine. The 2.0-liter option provides 148 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.4-liter is a little more powerful, with 168 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque.
Since the 2.4-liter version offers more hp, drivers can expect it to give them a peppy ride. It's surprisingly quick for crossover SUV, even one that's relatively small like the Outlander Sport. The 2.0-liter option, of course, isn't as quick, but it is still gives drivers plenty of speed to keep them safe when merging on interstates and avoiding risky scenarios.
When it comes to fuel economy, both engines offer similar numbers. Drivers who choose the 2.0-liter engine can expect to get about 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.* The 2.4-liter engine gets about 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.*
A five-speed manual transmission comes standard with both versions, while a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is also available. The five-speed is a good option for buyers who like something to do while driving. The CVT, however, is a more convenient option for drivers who don't want to bother with switching gears in heavy traffic.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport comes in four trim levels: ES 2.0, ES 2.4, SE 2.0 and GT 2.4. The entry-level version starts at $19,595.**
The ES 2.0 comes with some pretty decent standard features for the price. The exterior comes with halogen headlights, rear LED lights, side fender turn-signal indicators and heated side-view mirrors. On the inside, the ES 2.0 offers cruise control, cargo tie-down utility hooks, Bluetooth® compatibility and a color multi-information display.
The ES 2.4 is essentially the same vehicle as the ES 2.0, with the biggest difference being the 2.4-liter engine.
The SE 2.0 has features that a lot of buyers will find impressive. Standout exterior features include fog lights with LED running lights, chrome beltline molding and windshield wipers that automatically turn on when they sense rain. On the inside, buyers will find a 6.1-inch touchscreen audio display, digital HD Radio®, SiriusXM® and a rearview camera system.
In addition to extra chrome on the exterior, the GT 2.4 is similar to the SE 2.0 but with a larger engine.
Design
The sportiest thing about the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is its exterior design. It has a low profile that almost looks like a large car instead of a midsize SUV. Thankfully, Mitsubishi avoided any styling that would make the Outlander Sport look aggressive. There are several good things to say about this SUV, but it does not have an aggressive nature.
Viewed from any angle, the Outlander Sport looks quite friendly and welcoming. It has the kind of aesthetic that will likely attract young parents who aren't quite ready to give up the faster cars of their youth.
Inside, the 2016 Outlander Sport offers a comfortable experience for the driver and passengers. Even at the lower trim level, the interior materials look more expensive than they really are. That's a testament to the design team's ability to make a pleasant interior while staying under budget. It's amazing what a few chrome accents can do.
It's also a roomy vehicle. With 39.4 inches of headroom in the front and 37.9 inches in the back, even tall passengers won't feel cramped.
Safety
All trim levels come standard with traction control, stability control and antilock disc brakes. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2016 Outlander its highest rating in all categories. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives it five out of five stars for overall crash protection.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a good option for buyers who want an attractive, affordable SUV and that will give them reliable performance for years to come.
For more information or to schedule a test drive, contact or stop by 3Birds Template today.
*EPA mileage estimate. Actual mileage may vary.
**Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling, tax, title, license etc. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your Mitsubishi retailer for details.
Image: Mitsubishi
