Mitsubishi is busy updating its modest model range in the States, and at the LA Auto Show this week the automaker revealed a refreshed Outlander Sport, which is currently the brand’s sales leader.
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport debuted in 2010 and has been facelifted once already, so we’re talking about a very mild refresh, one which follows on the heels of a similar refresh for its larger sibling, the Outlander. By far the most noticeable exterior change is the restyled grille, which now features what the company refers to as a “Dynamic Shield,” becoming yet another automaker to abuse the word dynamic.
The mildly reworked front fascia replaces a cleaner hexagonal grille on the 2015 model, framed by a thin chrome strip, bisected by the front bumper and integrated license plate niche. The new front fascia features a series of far more complex horizontal lines, dropping the hexagonal frame in favor of something that flows into the bottom corners of the air dam.
The overall look is more aggressive but busier, and we can’t help but think it’s Lexus’ tinkering with its increasingly angry front fascias that is pushing poor Mitsubishi down this path.
Changes to the interior are a little more subtle — the new steering wheel is the biggest item the automaker tweaked for 2016.
The changes to the exterior for 2016 are rounded out by the addition of LED turn indicators, power-folding side mirrors, and new 18-inch wheels. In addition to a new light gray interior color scheme, three new exterior colors join the palette for 2016 including Quartz Brown, Diamond White Pearl, and Cool Silver.
On the inside, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport receives an updated suite of interior features including a redesigned steering wheel, a new 6.1-inch infotainment screen and an auto-dimming mirror with Homelink garage door connectivity.
“The Outlander Sport is a brand leader for Mitsubishi Motors, and we are excited to unveil this eye-catching 2016 model-year,” said MMNA executive vice president, Don Swearingen. “The Outlander Sport has always been a fun vehicle that delivers on its promise of reliability and value, and the 2016 model year continues to do so with a great new family look that unifies the Mitsubishi CUV lineup.”
Engines stay the same for 2016, and that means a choice of a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 148 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.4-liter unit churning out a marginally better 168 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque. Two transmission choices also continue, including a five-speed manual, though most buyers will probably go for the CVT available with the higher trim levels and the slightly beefier engine.