WASHINGTON — Republican leaders on Monday offered a sweeping self-critique of a party they said was in an “ideological cul-de-sac” and needed better outreach and a new brand of conservatism to appeal to younger voters, ethnic minorities and women.

But the call for change in preparation for the 2016 presidential election faces a Republican establishment in Washington that has so far shown little interest in altering its political trajectory in the party’s continuing battles with President Obama and Democrats.

In a sign of that reluctance to change, the 100-page assessment immediately drew fire from conservative activists and pundits who derided it as a retreat from fundamental principles. Rush Limbaugh, the radio talk show host, accused Republicans of being “totally bamboozled” and lacking in confidence.

Conducted by the Republican National Committee after the 2012 election defeat, the report is searing in its bluntness. Still, one of the main solutions it offered was new logistics rather than new policies: It called for fewer presidential debates and a shortened primary season, with the Republican National Convention to be held sometime before its traditional date in August or September.