The Mitsubishi Outlander has been completely redesigned for model year 2022, but its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model has not. That’s done this year with a complete reconfiguration of the small sport utility. The result is a much improved Outlander plugin with a few caveats.
at a glance
- A significant improvement over the previous generation
- Not as fuel efficient as rivals
- Superior drive quality and premium feel compared to the competition
- One of the most improved vehicles we’ve seen this year
In our review of last year’s standard petrol Outlander, we found it to be one of the better options in the small crossover segment. Compared to most of its contemporaries, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander was a low-cost, efficient, well-equipped family hauler. The third-row option (albeit cramped) and decent towing numbers were nice bonuses.
Of course, one thing was missing. There were no hybrid options. When it debuted, Mitsubishi promised to see an update to the PHEV as well, but that would be delayed.Now, his plug-in hybrid model is on the market and worth a look.
Aaron Turpen/New Atlas
Most of the changes to the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV are nearly identical to those made to the petrol model. The interior is a significant improvement over the often cheesy-looking design of the previous generation, along with significant upgrades in ride comfort, drivability and interior noise levels.
Powering the 2023 Outlander in plug-in hybrid form is a 2.4-liter engine and two electric motors, one on each axle. A 20 kWh lithium-ion battery is installed under the floor. The total system output is 248 hp (185 kW) and Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system is standard.
The 2023 Outlander PHEV has an estimated all-electric range of about 38 miles (61 km) on a single charge, followed by another 380 miles (612 km) on petrol alone. In our tests, driving almost exclusively in slow city traffic, we got an average of about 35 miles (56 km) of range on a single charge. On the highway, I got 27 mpg (8.7 l/100km). That’s exactly what the Environmental Protection Agency estimates for his 2023 Outlander PHEV without electric controls. This is 3 points lower than the rating for standard gasoline. Even when the battery is depleted to the point where it’s not fully EV, the motor acts as a boost for his PHEV, so he gets an EPA estimate even though the altitude is over 6,400 feet (1,951 m) It makes sense. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has an overall fuel economy of 64 MPGe (3.7 l/100km).
2023 Outlander PHEV charging varies by access and model selected. Our top-end (SEL) trim was able to receive DC fast charging as long as the fast charger had a CHAdeMO plug and interface. It makes sense since it’s a Japanese standard that Mitsubishi likely plans to sell much more to North America. is not very high. Our 240 volt, 50 amp garage plug (dedicated circuit) charged an Outlander PHEV from near zero in just 6 hours. It took almost 14 hours to fully charge from a 120 volt, 15 amp outlet on a shared circuit. For most people, the lack of a dedicated outlet is fine, given that the gasoline engine will run regardless of the state of charge of the plug-in battery.
Other plug-in options for similarly sized SUVs, notably the Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Prime, are decidedly more efficient. But neither is as glamorous or upscale as the Outlander. And here, for around $47,000, you can get top-notch trim with great equipment that’s more than price competitive with similarly equipped rivals.
Aaron Turpen/New Atlas
Like its petrol counterpart, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offers significant improvements over its predecessor in terms of interior comfort, overall design and everyday ergonomics. The seats are more comfortable, the cargo space is more convenient, the look is more modern and eye-catching, and the drivetrain and chassis are more fun.
The Outlander PHEV is the most improved vehicle we’ve seen this year and a new benchmark in the small SUV segment.
Product Page: 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
