2016 Mitsubishi Outlander: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander

The biggest change for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander is a major mid-cycle refresh that gives it a redesigned exterior, an updated cabin, and a quieter, more polished ride. Mitsubishi also revised the four-cylinder transmission and added the SEL trim.

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About the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander

3rd generation (2014-2020 U.S.), major mid-cycle refresh year

Mitsubishi positions the Outlander as a value-focused family SUV with seven-passenger seating in a compact footprint. Its core appeal is practicality: usable third-row flexibility, straightforward controls, good fuel economy with the four-cylinder models, and a long list of everyday comfort and safety basics. What separates it from many compact rivals in this era is that it offers three rows across the lineup and a V6-powered top trim, giving shoppers a choice between efficient family transport and a stronger, better-equipped version without moving to a much larger vehicle.

The 2016 Outlander is a three-row crossover with seven-passenger seating across the lineup. The SE adds everyday conveniences such as a touchscreen, heated front seats, and a rearview camera, while the new SEL pairs the four-cylinder engine with leather seats and a power driver's seat. The GT is the stronger, more fully equipped version, with a V6, all-wheel drive, LED headlights, premium audio, a sunroof, and a power liftgate.

What changed, by category

Styling
The front and rear were redesigned with Mitsubishi's new Dynamic Shield front end, revised front fenders and lower body sections, and LED taillights. Inside, Mitsubishi added a redesigned steering wheel, revised seat and headliner materials, new trim pieces, and easier-folding rear seats.
Tech
The audio and display interface was revised. A touchscreen became standard on SE and GT, while the GT also made premium audio standard.
Powertrain
Four-cylinder models received updated CVT tuning for smoother response and easier everyday driving.
Structural
Mitsubishi increased body rigidity, retuned the suspension and electric power steering, and added thicker glass and more sound insulation to make the Outlander quieter and more polished.
Trim lineup
The SEL joined the lineup as a comfort-focused four-cylinder trim with leather seats and a power driver's seat. The GT also made leather seats, a power driver's seat, a sunroof, premium audio, roof rails, and a touchscreen standard.

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander specs and features by trim

Feature
2016 Mitsubishi OutlanderES0 in stock
2016 Mitsubishi OutlanderGT0 in stock
2016 Mitsubishi OutlanderSE0 in stock
2016 Mitsubishi OutlanderSEL1 in stock
Engine4-Cyl, 2.4 LiterV6, 3.0 Liter4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter
TransmissionAutomatic, CVTAuto, 6-Spd SportronicAutomatic, CVTAutomatic, CVT
Drivetrain2WD4WD2WD4WD
Fuel TypeGasGasGasGas
MPG City25 mpg20 mpg25 mpg25 mpg
MPG Highway31 mpg27 mpg31 mpg31 mpg
Horsepower166 hp224 hp166 hp166 hp
Torque162 lb-ft215 lb-ft162 lb-ft162 lb-ft
Max Towing1500 lb3500 lb1500 lb1500 lb
Trunk/Cargo63.3 cu-ft63.3 cu-ft63.3 cu-ft63.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom28.2 in28.2 in28.2 in28.2 in
Seats7777
Doors4444
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Lane Departure Warning
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Rear View Camera
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Windshield
LED Headlights
Power Moonroof
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Power Liftgate/Trunk Release
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Subwoofer
Touch Screen Monitor
USB Ports
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Leather Seats
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Remote Start
Third Row Seat

How the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander compares

The most important change for the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander is the arrival of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on SE, SEL, and GT trims, along with expanded safety technology. This is a light update following the major 2016 redesign, not a new generation.

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander?

The biggest change is a major mid-cycle refresh. The 2016 Outlander has redesigned front and rear styling, an updated cabin, more sound insulation, greater body rigidity, and revised suspension and steering tuning.

How is the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander different from the 2015 model?

The 2016 Outlander is substantially updated rather than carried over. It brings new exterior styling, revised interior materials and controls, a quieter structure, retuned steering and suspension, updated four-cylinder CVT tuning, and the newly added SEL trim.

Was the SEL trim new for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander?

Yes, the SEL joined the Outlander lineup for 2016. It sits above the SE and combines the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with leather seats, a power driver's seat, heated front seats, and a touchscreen.

Did the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander get a new engine?

No new engine is identified for 2016. Four-cylinder models keep the 2.4-liter engine but receive revised CVT tuning, while the GT remains the V6-powered model with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.

Which 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander trim has the V6?

The GT is the only 2016 Outlander trim with the 3.0-liter V6. It also has a six-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, LED headlights, leather seats, premium audio, a sunroof, and a power liftgate.

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander.

4.2
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
(330 reviews)
5 stars (135)
4 stars (127)
3 stars (60)
2 stars (6)
1 star (2)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

“You don't see many used Mitsubishis for sale, but you see lots of older ones on the road, because people love their Mitsubishis. We have had 3 and will continue to buy them.”

KPKathy P.
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander GT/ SEL FWD

“The car has electric windows, locks, Bluetooth audio and can switch from 2wd to 4wd, and a locked gas door.”

SMShaun M.
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander ES/SE AWD

“Love my car there is very little I would change! Definitely a good reliable vehicle!”

RHRyleigh H.
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander ES/SE AWD