2016 Mitsubishi Outlander: First Look

• Competes with: Kia Sorento, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
• Looks like: Significant exterior revisions make for a more modern, sophisticated Outlander
• Drivetrain: 166-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder or 224-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 engine with continuously variable automatic transmission (four-cylinder) or six-speed automatic (V-6); front- or all-wheel drive
• Hits dealerships: Summer 2015

More 2015 New York Auto Show Coverage

Mitsubishi has significantly overhauled its seven-seat Outlander crossover SUV for the 2016 model year with new exterior styling and a number of chassis improvements. The 2016 Outlander made its debut at the 2015 New York International Auto Show and hits dealerships this summer.

Exterior

The 2016 Outlander is the first model to feature the brand’s new front design language. Mitsubishi calls it “Dynamic Shield,” and the look is heavy on chrome with a chrome grille and vertical chrome accents that border a piano-black bumper treatment. New rear styling includes LED taillights that extend into the liftgate and a restyled bumper. Heated side mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard.

Interior

The general look of the cabin carries over, but there’s an updated steering wheel and available navigation system. There’s room for up to seven people in three rows of seats with cloth upholstery standard and leather optional.

Standard features include automatic air conditioning, a CD stereo with USB connectivity and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. A Rockford Fosgate premium stereo, power moonroof and power liftgate are optional.

Under the Hood

Power comes from a standard 166-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or an optional 224-hp, 3.0-liter V-6. The four-cylinder teams with a next-generation continuously variable automatic transmission, while the V-6 works with a conventional six-speed automatic.

Mitsubishi says body and suspension rigidity has been increased, the suspension and power steering have been updated, and there’s more sound insulation. Mitsubishi says the changes result in improved handling and less noise, vibration and harshness.

Safety

Antilock brakes and an electronic stability system are among the federally mandated safety features. The Outlander also has seven airbags. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation and lane departure warning.