Mitsubishi Challenges the PHEV Competition with the New Outlander PHEV

Mitsubishi Motors has been going through some changes ever since it joined the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, but those changes have been slow to bear new fruits. We’ve seen the automaker release new generation models of most vehicles in its lineup, and several models are getting a Ralliart Special Edition, starting with the Mitsubishi Mirage Ralliart model . The Mitsubishi XFC Concept shown at the Vietnam Motor Show 2022 looks promising, but we have no clue if it will be produced, let alone come to America. We’re still wondering why the Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck isn’t here yet. So, we have the current lineup as an example of what Mitsubishi Motors can do, and the Outlander PHEV is the latest model to tout some upgrades that give it an edge over the competition.

Power

The recent 2022 model of the Outlander PHEV was already pretty strong, sporting an AC synchronous permanent magnetic motor with a 60kW motor in the front and a 70kW motor in the rear, plus a 2.4 liter inline-four-cylinder engine able to generate 126 horsepower. Together, it could generate about 300 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV has an all-electric range (AER) of 24 miles before needing to switch to gasoline. In 2023, the fuel tank got 0.2 more gallons to spare, and although it may not seem very grand, the electric powertrain comes with a larger battery pack, pushing the (AER) up to 38 miles, with 420 miles of overall range. Oddly enough, the output has dropped to a combined 248-horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque with a twin-motor system, possibly making the electric part of the powertrain more powerful for that extended range whilst dropping some power in the gasoline engine.

Interior Space and Tech

The new 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV now comes standard with the brand’s signature Super All-wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system for better handling, and more advanced safety features standard, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention (LDW & LDP). The new Tech package also adds a number of comfort features, such as a new power panoramic sunroof, and that classic Mitsubishi luxury feels starts in the SEL with leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, plus a Bose Premium Audio system with nine speakers. When it comes to seating capacity, the Outlander PHEV can only seat up to five passengers, but it also comes with the largest cargo volume in the compact SUV segment with a maximum cargo capacity of 66.6 cubic-feet.

Pricing

We all know the one drawback of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles (EV) will be the initial jump in price. The federal tax credit many are eligible for is nice, but it’s not money back in the bank, just less money to owe come tax season. The 2023 Outlander PHEV does have a slight increase to the starting MSRP, now $39,845 (plus destination fee), but the new standard equipment in each trim is worth it. Plus, the new price is in the same ballpark as most PHEVs from competitors while still offering plenty of choices with trims and package deals starting with the base trim. Looking to go a little green? Get behind the wheel of a 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV at Miami Lakes Automall .

Photo Source/Copyright: Mitsubishi Motors

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