2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: A Compact Crossover Option
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a subcompact crossover SUV designed for those seeking a practical and budget-friendly option for everyday driving. It offers a blend of utility, a comfortable ride, and a decent array of features for its segment.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The Outlander Sport came standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower. For those seeking a bit more pep, an available 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivered 168 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing smooth acceleration and good fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive (AWD) was an available option on most trims, enhancing traction and capability.
- Safety Features: Mitsubishi equipped the 2016 Outlander Sport with a solid suite of safety features, including:
- Antilock Brakes (ABS): Prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Traction Control: Helps prevent wheel slippage during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces, improving stability.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Works with ABS and traction control to help prevent skidding and maintain control of the vehicle during sudden maneuvers or loss of traction.
- Front-impact airbags: Protect the driver and front passenger in a frontal collision.
- Side-impact airbags: Provide protection for occupants in side collisions.
- Overhead-impact airbags: Offer head protection for all occupants in the event of a rollover or side impact.
- Driver knee airbag: Protects the driver's knees from impact with the steering column or dashboard.
- Backup camera: Aids in reversing by displaying the area behind the vehicle on the infotainment screen, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Trim Levels: The 2016 Outlander Sport was available in several trims, offering varying levels of features and comfort:
- ES: The base model, offering essential features for everyday driving.
- SE: Adds more popular amenities like upgraded upholstery, heated front seats, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
- GT: The top-tier trim, typically featuring the more powerful 2.4-liter engine, leather seating, and advanced convenience features.
- Other Notable Aspects: The Outlander Sport boasts a surprisingly spacious interior for its compact footprint, particularly in terms of rear-seat legroom. Its cargo area, while not class-leading, is adequately sized for most daily needs. The vehicle's straightforward design and intuitive controls contribute to an easy-to-live-with ownership experience.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is generally characterized by its reliability and straightforward operation. Mitsubishi has a reputation for building durable vehicles, and the Outlander Sport is no exception. Maintenance is typically affordable and readily available, with most routine services being comparable to other vehicles in its class. Expect to perform standard oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations. Insurance costs are generally moderate, reflecting its positioning as a practical and less performance-oriented vehicle. Resale value is typically fair, though it may depreciate at a slightly faster rate than some more popular competitors.
Potential Considerations
While the Outlander Sport offers good value, buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks:
- Base Engine Performance: The 2.0-liter engine, while adequate for city driving, can feel a bit underpowered when merging onto highways or carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. The 2.4-liter engine offers a noticeable improvement in this regard.
- CVT Behavior: While the CVT contributes to fuel efficiency, some drivers may find its responses to be less engaging or more "rubbery" than a traditional automatic transmission.
- Interior Materials: The cabin, particularly in lower trims, utilizes some hard plastics that can detract from the overall perceived quality compared to some rivals.
- Road Noise: Some testers have noted a tendency for road and wind noise to be more prominent at highway speeds, which can impact the overall refinement of the driving experience.
- Infotainment System: While functional, the touchscreen infotainment system in some trims might feel a bit dated compared to the more advanced and responsive systems found in newer vehicles.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a competent and practical compact crossover that delivers a reliable and affordable ownership experience. Its strong points lie in its dependability, spacious interior for its class, and available all-wheel drive. While it may not offer the most exciting driving dynamics or the most premium interior, it serves as a solid choice for individuals or small families seeking a no-nonsense vehicle for daily commutes and general utility. For those prioritizing value and a proven track record of reliability, the Outlander Sport is certainly worth considering.