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