Comparison of the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Kia Niro PHEV

jordan December 21, 2017

This year the 2018 Kia Niro, a hybrid crossover, was released and it definitely turned heads. Recently, there was news about the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV coming to America, and it is on its way. Not only that, but Kia is already working on the release of the Kia Niro PHEV. With two plug-in hybrid crossovers coming to the market, and both of them bound to be on the lot at Miami Lakes Automall, we felt it was necessary to show you all the goods of both vehicles.

Unlike our usual articles, we’re going to do a full comparison piece on these two PHEV crossovers with a little side-by-side action. Below, readers and prospective consumers can find specs on the engine, the electric motor, fuel economy, and a little on the amenities offered. Keep in mind, the 2018 Kia Niro PHEV has yet to be released, so some information may be limited until it goes live on the Kia Motors website. On the other hand, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has been added to the lineup, and we know all about it.

Feature	Kia Niro PHEV	Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Gas Engine	1.6-liter 4-cylinder	2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Gas Engine Optimization	DOHC, CVVT, and GDI*	DOHC, MIVEC
Gas Engine HP	103	117
Electric Motor	8.9 kWh li-ion battery pack	Two 12.0 kWh lithium-ion
Electric Motor Output	45 kw, 60 hp	60 kw, 80 hp
Transmission	6-speed dual clutch auto	Single-speed fixed
Combined Fuel Economy – Gas	46 mpg	25 mpg
Fuel Economy – Gas + Electric	105 MPGe	74 MPGe
Electric-Only Distance	26 miles	22 miles
Combined Driving Range	560 miles	310 miles

So far the results are pretty interesting. Who would expect Mitsubishi to have the more powerful setup, with the internal combustion engine and the duo electric motors coming out on top? However, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV isn’t ahead when it comes to fuel economy and driving range.

The choice between the two plug-in hybrids all depends on why a consumer wants the vehicle. Long road trips? The 2018 Kia Niro PHEV might be a better option because it’s rated at 560 miles on a single charge and full tank of gas. Otherwise, the Outlander PHEV is a great option for the day-to-day to commute and errands.

In terms of amenities, we don’t have all the specs, but the 2018 Kia Niro PHEV is said to have leather seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a heated steering wheel, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation available. In addition, it may have several advanced safety features, such as lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has all of the above, plus heated seats. Again, we don’t have all the specs about the Kia Niro PHEV just yet, so we don’t wanna talk one up too much.

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is already hitting the streets, whilst the 2018 Kia Niro PHEV is already in Europe with a U.S. release to be announced. Stay tuned to find out more, or stay in touch for a test drive. And remember, plug-in hybrid vehicles are eligible for up to $7,500 in federal tax credits.

*Based on 2018 Kia Niro powertrain setup