The Mitsubishi Lancer is fresh for 2016! Mitsu just revealed the facelift, pricing and new features ahead of showroom arrivals in the next few weeks. Big changes to the look of the nose, fresh LEDs and wheels around back, plus a sporty Evo-lite look for the loaded Lancer GT models.
Evo-ish is a good look for the new Lancer GT — especially as the Evo proper will not be joining the 2016 lineup. This facelift will likely hold for two years or so, when an all-new Evo and Lancer will arrive for the 2018 or 2019 model-year. Part-hybrid drive for the new Evo demands an all-new chassis — but this Lancer is still pretty cool. Think of it as a sporty car — because it is — and know that Mitsu pours Evo tech back into the 2016 model whenever is is cost-effective.
All but the base Lancers now run a 2.4-liter four-cylinder making 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque. A stickshift is offered in this engine or the 2.0-liter variant with 148-horsepower, but most shoppers will go for the new auto.
This transmission is dubbed CVT8 and brings big jumps in efficiency versus the 5-speed manual or any previous Lancers.
A slightly updated cabin has better standard spec levels and a standard USB input in the redesigned center console.
All the 2.4-liter Lancers for 2016 are offered with AWC — Mitsu-speak for AWD — but only with the automatic transmission. This matches the Subaru Impreza’s base prices from around $21k (including destination).
2016 is a big year for Mitsubishi. The new Outlander looks awesome and hopes to move up in the mid-size crossover sales charts. Even though this Lancer is largely a legacy model, the facelift shows that something ultra-modern and fast will be coming in the next Evo. So radical… it is still in development with none other than the Nissan GT-R as a benchmark!
2016 Mitsubishi LANCER GT
At-A-Glance: 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer /
New for 2016 (U.S. Model):
- Newly enhanced exterior complete with redesigned front bumper fascia/chrome grille styling, new LED daytime running lights and fog lamps
- Revamped interior with new seat fabrics and a redesigned front center console with USB port
- Entry-level Lancer ES (2.0 liter engine) now features an expanded standard equipment package that includes 16 in. alloy wheels, FUSE Hands-Free Link System®, automatic air condition climate control, color LCD multi-infomation display and fog lights with LED daytime running lights (DRLs)
- Entry-level Lancer ES (2.0 liter engine) is now available with a new Sun & Sound package that includes a power glass sunroof, rearview camera system, 6.1 in. display audio system with Digital HD Radio®, SIRIUSXM® satellite radio with 3-month subscription and a 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate® premium sound system with 9 speakers including 10 in. dual-voice coil subwoofer with Punch Control®, DTS® Neural Surround, PremiDIA-WIDE surround, and Dolby® Volume
- A new redesigned continuously-variable transmission (CVT8) that offers improved fuel economy and performance in both 2.0L and 2.4L engine variants
- New chrome beltline molding and 18 in. alloy wheel design (GT model)
- New value-oriented ES and SEL AWC trim levels powered by a 2.4-liter engine
- Two new paint colors: Diamond White Pearl and Alloy Silver
Key Specifications and Stats:
Wheelbase: | 103.7 in. |
Length: | 182.1 in. |
Height: | 58.3 in. |
Width: | 69.4 |
Engine: | 2.0L MIVEC DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder (ES) 2.4L MIVEC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder (ES, SE, SEL, GT) |
Horsepower: | 148 @ 6,000 rpm (2.0L engine) (143 CAL Emission units) 168 @ 6,000 rpm (2.4L engine) |
Torque: | 145 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm (2.0L engine) 167 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm (2.4L engine) |
Transmission: | 5-speed manual or continuously-variable transmission (paddle shifters available for GT) |
Dynamics: | Anti-Lock Brake System w/Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) & Brake Assist, Active Stability Control (ASC) and Traction Control Logic (TCL) |
Wheels: | 18 in. two tone (GT) 16 in. aluminum alloy (ES) 16 in. 2-tone alloy (SE, SEL) |
Tires: | P2015/60R16 all-season radials (GT) 215/45R18 all-season radials (ES, SE, SEL) |
Fuel Economy: | 2.0L 5-spd manual (ES) 24 city/34 highway/28 combined 2.0L CVT (ES) 27 city/36 highway/30 combined 2.4L AWC (ES, SE, SEL) 23 city/31 highway/26 combined 2.4L 5-spd manual (GT) 22 city/31 highway/25 combined 2.4L CVT (GT) 24 city/31 highway/27 combined |
Exterior Features
- New front fascia/chrome grille
- 16 in. alloy wheels
- Heated side view mirrors with turn indicators
- LED daytime running lights (DRLs)
- Fog lamps
- Auto-off halogen headlights
- Front and side air dams
- Color-keyed outdoor door handles
- Colors: New Diamond White Pearl, New Alloy Silver, Tarmac Black, Octane Blue, Rally Red, Mercury Gray
Interior Features
- New front center console
- New display audio system with rearview camera (SE, SEL, GT)
- New interior seating fabric
- FUSE Hands-Free Link System® with Bluetooth technology and USB port
- AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with digital signal processing and four speakers
- Two 12-volt power outlets
- Soft-touch instrument panel and door trim
- 6-way adjustable driver’s seat
- Rear center armrest with two cup holders
- Color LCD multi-information display
- Power windows with driver’s side auto up/down feature
- Power door locks
- Chrome-plated inner door handles
- Remote keyless entry with panic feature
- Steering wheel mounted audio, cruise control, and Bluetooth switches
- Front & rear door storage pockets
- Adjustable tilt steering wheel
- Automatic air condition climate control
- High-contrast meter gauge cluster
- Front map lights
Safety Features
- Advanced seven (7) airbag SRS system including driver’s side knee air bag, dual-stage front airbags with occupant seat position sensors, front seat mounted side airbags and side curtain air bags
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and brake assist
- Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL)
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Engine immobilizer anti-theft security alarm system
- Mitsubishi Motors’ patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE)
Factory Options
- Sun & Sound Package (CVT Only)
Accessories Packages
- Navigation System Package
- All Weather Package
- Popular Equipment Package
- Interior Package
- LED Illumination Package
Accessory Options
- Roof Rack Crossbars (AWC models only)
- Rear Park Assist Sensors
- Wheel Locks
- Rear Lip Spoiler
- All Weather Floor Mats
Warranty
- Fully transferable 5-year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty
- 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty
- 7-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion perforation limited warranty
- 5-year/unlimited mile roadside assistance
2016 Mitsubishi Lancer: Bold New Styling and Increased Value
Mitsubishi’s stylish and renowned Lancer compact sports sedan enters 2016 with a number of key design and feature improvements to set it apart from the pack. Exterior enhancements include fresh new front end exterior design, new alloy wheel designs and brand new exterior paint colors.
New value-oriented models have been added to the Lancer line-up for the new model year, including a reconfigured Lancer ES and new SEL trim level, both available with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and the brand’s exceptional All Wheel Control (AWC) all-wheel drive system, which provides enhanced performance and tractability. Additionally, the entry-level Lancer ES model now boasts the most comprehensive standard equipment and features package ever included and all CVT models come equipped with a new generation CVT8 that improves both performance and fuel economy.
The 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer comes equipped with the following standard features:
Interior
- New front center console
- New interior seating fabric
- FUSE Hands-Free Link System® with Bluetooth® technology and USB port
- AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with 140-watt speakers
- Color LCD multi-information display
- Soft-touch instrument panel and door trim
- 6-way adjustable driver’s seat
- Automatic air condition climate control
- Steering wheel mounted audio, cruise control and Bluetooth® switches
- Cruise control
- Power windows with driver’s automatic down/up feature
- Power door locks
- Remote keyless entry with panic feature
- 60/40 split folding rear seat
- Tilt-adjustable steering column
- Remote trunk and fuel lid release lever
- High-contrast gauge meters
Exterior
- New front fascia/chrome grille
- Automatic on/off headlights
- Fog lights
- Heated side view mirrors with turn indicators
- LED daytime running lights (DRLs)
- Auto-off halogen headlights
- Side air dams
- Color-keyed outer door handles
- Colors: New Diamond White Pearl, New Alloy Silver, Tarmac Black, Octane Blue, Rally Red, Mercury Gray
Safety
- Advanced seven (7) air bag SRS system including driver’s side knee air bag, dual-stage front air bags with occupant seat position sensors, front seat mounted side-impact air bags and front and rear curtain side air bags
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL)
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Engine immobilizer anti-theft security alarm system
- Mitsubishi Motors’ patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) safety cell body construction
Warranty
- Fully transferable 5-year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty
- 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty
- 7-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion perforation limited warranty
- 5-year/unlimited mile roadside assistance
Bold New Exterior
The 2016 Lancer features a fresh and bold new signature design for the front fascia/grille section.
Additional updates for the 2016 Lancer include 16″ or all-new 18″ alloy wheels, new LED daytime running lights (DRLs), a new chrome beltline trim and a choice of two new paint colors: New Diamond White Pearl and Alloy Silver, in all models.
Revitalized Interior
The Lancer receives a number of key design and/or feature improvements to its interior for the new model year. All models now feature a redesigned front center console complete with a convenient USB port as well as an improved new display audio system. The optional navigation system has been redesigned and includes a new reconfigured display screen. The Lancer ES and SE models now come standard with improved fabric seats and gloss black trim.
Next-Generation Continuously-Variable Transmission (CVT)
Consumers choosing to upgrade their 2016 Lancer model’s powertrain will experience improved fuel efficiency, smoother operation, reduced noise and better acceleration and shift performance from Mitsubishi’s latest generation continuously-variable transmission (CVT). The next-generation CVT transmission is a standard feature on the 2016 Lancer ES, SE and SEL AWC models that include Mitsubishi’s outstanding and highly capable All-Wheel Control (AWC) all-wheel drive system.
Increased Standards and Value
Mitsubishi vehicles have a well-deserved reputation in the eyes of automotive consumers for delivering exceptional reliability, safety and value for decades in the North American marketplace. For the 2016 model year, Mitsubishi adds to its reputation with the introduction of the value-priced Lancer ES – the most comprehensive standard equipment package to ever be included on an entry-level Mitsubishi Lancer.
The 2016 Lancer ES now features 16-in. alloy wheels, FUSE Hands-Free Link System® for voice-activated audio and cell phone controls, automatic air condition climate control, color LCD multi-infomation display and fog lights with LED daytime running lights (DRLs).
In addition to the standard equipment package, the 2016 Lancer ES is now available with a new Sun & Sound package (CVT only) that includes a power glass sunroof, rearview camera, a 6.1″ display audio system with HD Radio®, SIRIUSXM® satellite radio with 3-month subscription and a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate® premium sound system with nine speakers including 10-in. dual-voice coil subwoofer with Punch Control®, DTS® Neural Surround, PremiDIA-WIDE surround, and Dolby® Volume.
Mitsubishi’s Standard of Safety/Warranty Excellence
An Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) “Top Safety Pick” for seven straight model years (2009 through 2015), every 2016 Lancer model comes standard with a long list of safety features/technologies in every vehicle. These items include anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL); Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); a seven (7) air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including driver’s knee air bag, dual-stage front air bags, front seat mounted side-impact air bags and front and rear curtain side air bags and Mitsubishi Motors advanced Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) safety body construction system that absorbs energy to help provide protection to the vehicle’s occupants.
Additional piece of mind is offered by the brand’s industry-leading warranty that includes a fully transferable 5-year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty; 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty; 7-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion perforation limited warranty and a 5-year/unlimited mile roadside assistance.
2016 MITSUBISHI LANCER PRICING GUIDE | |||||||
Order Code* | Description | (Eng./Tran) | Suggested Retail Price*** | Comments | |||
LN41-A | Lancer ES 4-Door DOHC MIVEC | (2.0L/5MT) | $17,595.00 | 5-Speed Manual Transmission | |||
LN41-A | Lancer ES 4-Door DOHC MIVEC | (2.0L/CVT) | $18,595.00 | Continuously Variable Transmission | |||
LN41-C | Lancer ES AWC 4-Door DOHC MIVEC | (2.4L/CVT) | $19,995.00 | Continuously Variable Transmission | |||
LN41-E | Lancer SE AWC 4-Door DOHC MIVEC | (2.4L/CVT) | $20,995.00 | Continuously Variable Transmission | |||
LN41-G | Lancer SEL AWC 4-Door DOHC MIVEC | (2.4L/CVT) | $21,995.00 | Continuously Variable Transmission | |||
LN41-T | Lancer GT 4-Door DOHC MIVEC | (2.4L/5MT) | $22,495.00 | 5-Speed Manual Transmission | |||
LN41-T | Lancer GT 4-Door DOHC MIVEC | (2.4L/CVT) | $23,495.00 | Continuously Variable Transmission with 6-Step Sportronic® Paddle-Shifters |
Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.
He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.
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