When most manufacturers refresh a vehicle, they usually just change the grill and the dash, rather than tackling much else. Thats not the case with the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander, which drives like a new model instead of a cosmetically changed one. The subcompact crossover performs much better than last years model, finally making it a serious contender in the popular small SUV market.
The 2016 Outlander Sport does get a new Dynamic Shield front end and an upgraded interior, including a redesigned steering wheel and new 6.1" display screen. But the most important changes are the ones you dont see. Mitsubishi engineers have quieted down the Continuously Variable Transmission than used to whine when driving slowly and howl under hard acceleration. It now just growls a little, sounding more like a low exhaust note not than anything else. Although some road noise is still apparent, the overall ride is now much quieter.
Out test model was a fully equipped GT version which came with the more powerful 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine and the companys All-Wheel-Control system that can be electronically set in two-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive, or 4WD with the center differential locked. It also boasted such premium features as a leather interior, an upgraded stereo system and a sunroof, creating a more refined driving environment than some might expect.
On the road, the 2016 Outlander GT AWD felt light and nimble, which is only fitting for such a small vehicle. Although bigger than the smallest subcompact crossovers, it is also smaller than some competitors compact models, giving it what potential buyers might consider a just right size. That paid off in around town driving, where squeezing into small parking spaces was never a problem, thanks in part to the rear view camera. The engine provided enough power to easily take advantage of breaks in the traffic to change lanes, although it strained a little getting up to freeway speeds, even in the manual shift mode. Keeping up with freeway traffic was no problems, however.
The Outlander Sport has always been a good value, and the 2016 version continues to be with a starting price below $20,000 and Mitsubishi's lengthy warranties: a fully transferable 5-year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty; a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty; a 7-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion perforation limited warranty and a 5-year/unlimited mile roadside assistance. Our top-of-the-line GT model was just under $29,000, which is a very good price, considering everything it came with.
Up until now, its been difficult to recommend the Outlander Sport over most other small crossovers, despite its strong points. Mitsubishi has stepped up with the 2016 model, however, and put it firmly in play.
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport GT AWD
Base price: $19,595
Price as tested: $28,246
Type: Subcompact crossover
Engine: 2.0-liter 4 (148 hp, 145 lbs-ft); 2.4-liter 4 (168 hp, 167 lbs-ft)
Transmission: 5-speed manual; Continuously Variable EPA estimated mileage: 22/27 (as tested); 24/31 (2.0, 2WD)
Overall length: 171.5 inches
Curb weight: 3,109 to 3,285 pounds
Final assembly: Okazaki, Japan
