2016 Mitsubishi Outlander

The Outlandish Advantage! 

By Charles Donaldson

Lately, I have had a run of crossovers as my test vehicles, all with a variety of options and prices. Some of the more expensive vehicles would be dressed in the fine linens as you would expect. Occasionally, you will find a vehicle dressed for the red carpet; however, available on an import-beer budget. This describes the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander.

The 2016 Outlander totally changed my impression of Mitsubishi. For 2016, the Outlander has really upped their game in technology features in value, presentation, styling, and performance. It was designed for the family value-oriented customer.

Style changes for 2016 could add up to a mid-cycle upgrade including the addition of Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield front-end design styling. The new front styling continues the character flair to the backend with complementary changes throughout. The result is a clean set of sheet metal.

The 2016 Mitsubishi comes in the following trim levels: ES ($23,890), SE ($24,890),  SEL ($25,890), and GT ($31,890). The SE and SEL have optional Four-wheel drive ($2000), while the GT comes standard with Four-wheel drive. All models except for the GT come with a 166 horsepower 2.4-liter engine and an automatic CTV transmission. The GT is packaged with a 224 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 and 6-speed Sportronics automatic transmission.

I was impressed by the clean interior with very comfortable seats and that the Outlander could accommodate a group of seven. If you have fewer people, and more stuff to transport, the rear seat folds flat and over double cargo space. All three rows of seats come with headrests to improve safety. There were plenty of cup holders and storage areas throughout.

My test model was the GT and it included satellite radio and a backup camera, which are all standard. The only option we had was the GT Touring package which comprised of many safety features, such as the navigation system, forward collision mitigation system, Adaptive cruise control and a lane departure warning system.

Cool Features:

• Forward Collision Mitigation System (optional feature)
• Hill Start Assist
• Paddle Shifters

Safety on the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander begins with the standard package including many safety features. These features include: rear camera, anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, active stability control, traction control, side curtain airbags, and front seat mounted side airbags.

In Summary –Mitsubishi is striving to improve its image both in design and quality and become buyer-relevant. Mitsubishi’s hope is that the 2016 Outlander with its major mid-cycle refresh, feature offerings and attractive pricing, will generate enough buzz to deliver the value and benefit message, which in turn, will motivate buyers to add it to their list of choices.

Specifications

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander GT

Base price:                  $30,995 as driven: $35,195 (including destination & optional

                                    features)

Engine:                        3.0-liter MIVEC SOHC 24-valve 6-cylinder

Horsepower:               224 @ 6,250 RPM

Torque:                       215 @ 3,750 RPM

Transmission:             6-speed automatic

Drive:                          AWD Drive

Seating:                       7-passenger

Turning circle:            34.8 feet

Cargo space:               10.3 cubic feet

Curb weight:               3,593 pounds

Fuel capacity:              15.8 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 20/Hwy 27

Wheel Base:                105.1 inches

Warranty:                    5 years/60,000 miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Honda CRV, Jeep Cherokee, Dodge Journey, Hyundai Santa Fe,

                                    and Subaru Outback