The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport gets a refresh for the model year, with the focus being updating its exterior styling. ExteriorStyling changes are highlighted by a new nose that features an updated front grille drawn from Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield design concept. This look is also worn by the larger Outlander and will eventually make its way across the rest of the Mitsubishi lineup. The middle of the front bumper is blacked out, which joins the grille with the lower air intake to form what looks like one continuous opening. The headlights have been restyled as well, and the fog lights lose their LED accents, adding black surrounds to better match the rest of the nose. There are also new standard 18-inch alloy wheels, while SEL and GT models add new power folding side mirrors with LED turn signal indicators. Three new paint colors are available: Cool Silver, Diamond White Pearl and Quartz Brown. InteriorThe interior design is unchanged, but there is a new steering wheel on all models. SE and higher trim levels add a new a 6.1-inch screen for the display audio system and upgraded seat fabric. SEL and GT models now come with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and the SE features a new light gray interior color scheme option. Under the HoodThere are no changes to the powertrain; the Outlander Sport keeps the same two engine options. A 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine comes standard, while a 166-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder is optional. There are two transmission choices: a five-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. The Outlander Sport also continues to offer a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, which ties it with Hyundai and Kia. SafetyBeyond the federally mandated front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system, the Outlander Sport offers additional airbags (side-impact, side curtain and driver’s knee) and hill start assist.
