The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander facelift packs in a host of changes including the aggressive new front fascia with oodles of chrome and certain technical upgrades under the skin.
Mitsubishi has finally unveiled the 2016 Outlander in a facelifted avatar at the ongoing New York International Auto Show, adopting a new and evolved design language. With an aggressive new front fascia, the new Outlander continues to retain the underpinnings from the outgoing model that debuted in 2012, but the manufacturer does say that the premium SUV has received over 100 changes that not only make it a better product but should also help Mitsubishi improve its sales numbers on the slow-selling model.
Starting with the new front fascia, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander gets the new ‘Dynamic Shield’ look and has been inspired by the previous generation Montero SUVs conveying strength and protection. The slimmed headlight clusters now get new LED position lights while the twin-slat grille has been done up in chrome that is in abundance throughout the SUV. Also new are the front fenders, front and rear bumpers, LED tail lights and 18-inch alloy wheels. On the inside, the 7-seater gets a new steering wheel, seat upholstery, rear folding seat, touchscreen infotainment system and a new headliner on offer.
Mechanically, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander gets changes to the chassis for increased body and suspension structural rigidity and protection along with a redesigned suspension, an electric power steering system, and noise-isolating windscreen and tailgate glass. Mitsubishi also says that the new Outlander gets more sound insulation throughout, a new dynamic front suspension and rear differential dampers. The CVT unit has also been tuned to offer improved acceleration, torque delivery and quicker shifts over the outgoing version.
In terms of power, the 2.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol motor with 166 HP of power will continue to be on offer while the international markets also get a 3.0-litre V6 version with 224 HP on tap. In the Indian context, early speculations suggested that Mitsubishi will be launching the facelifted Outlander in the country later this year but with the 2.4-litre petrol motor alone. The 7-seater SUV will be competing primarily against the Honda CR-V in the segment with prices expected to start above Rs. 21 lakhs (ex-showroom), it is likely to be locally assembled.
