In this fourth generation of the Outlander PHEV, plug-in hybrid technology reaches new heights of excellence, building on the impressive foundations laid by its predecessors, raising the bar for innovation and further enhancing the capabilities of the original PHEV SUV.
“The new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV redefines the concept of a plug-in hybrid in the D-segment SUV market. Building on the brand’s experience and heritage, it offers an increasingly exclusive range of vehicles featuring electric technology, efficiency and dynamic performance thanks to the S-AWC system”, says Frank Krol, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Europe. “Mitsubishi’s flagship model boasts an authentic exterior design and new levels of interior sophistication that help it stand out from the competition,” he concludes.
Specifically, it improves control of the dual-motor setup, features a larger drive battery and adds a range of driving modes to deliver a driving experience tailored to the driver’s needs and expectations. The latest-generation plug-in hybrid powertrain takes the vehicle’s all-electric range even further (up to 85 km in the combined cycle), offering outstanding efficiency and ease of use.
Thanks to its new chassis, the S-AWC all-wheel-drive system dynamically distributes power and torque to adapt to road conditions, boosting confidence in any situation, whilst the combination of the powertrain and transmission delivers seamless acceleration, effortless performance and a dynamic driving experience.
What really sets the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV apart is the Dynamic Shield – its bold, distinctive front end, with its wide, robust proportions that lend a sense of stability, whilst the horizontal lines of the bodywork give it a defined, muscular look. At the rear, the sculpted hexagonal motif conveys strength, whilst the horizontal design of the rear lights emphasises its stability and width.
Inside, the sophisticated and refined character of the cabin conveys a sense of quality thanks to its Japanese craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, in keeping with the Japanese concept of omotenashi, which is based on attention to detail and hospitality.
The choice of materials lends a sense of cohesion to the interior, offering high standards of quality and excellent soundproofing, with a cabin shielded from unwanted noise and vibrations, as well as improved interior design that creates a feeling of spaciousness, enhancing comfort for all occupants.
In a world full of external stimuli, the new Outlander PHEV allows passengers not only to bring their digital lives into the cabin, but also to experience them in the purest possible way. In collaboration with audio pioneer Yamaha, the brand’s new flagship model features a high-quality sound system, developed with the shared aim and philosophy of delivering an immersive sound experience.
In addition to the standard features of an SUV-D, there is a range of the most advanced passive and active safety systems, which provide first-class peace of mind thanks to the bodywork, the latest cutting-edge driver assistance technologies and the infotainment systems.
A dynamic gem
The new Outlander PHEV prioritises performance, comfort and efficiency, offering an enhanced plug-in hybrid experience with quicker response times, smoother acceleration, excellent sound insulation and a long range. The PHEV system uses two independent electric motors, allowing the vehicle to be driven in both electric mode and series hybrid mode.
The system combines an efficient four-cylinder petrol engine, two high-power electric motors, a generator and a larger lithium-ion battery, increasing power by around 36% compared with the previous-generation model. Furthermore, the drive battery now has a total capacity of 22.7 kWh, which means a longer range.
The Outlander PHEV’s superior responsiveness and smoother acceleration are aided by the AC synchronous permanent magnet electric motors fitted at the front and rear.
To get the most out of the electric motors, it features a lithium-ion battery that offers 49% more capacity (meaning longer intervals between charges) and a total voltage of 355 V. The unit’s continuous power output is 65% higher due to the battery’s lower internal resistance. The battery’s efficiency is enhanced by a new liquid cooling system: the heat sink structure cools each cell directly with coolant, achieving excellent cooling efficiency and reducing temperature rises within the battery during operation.
The new approach to thermal management improves battery life and allows the battery to perform to its full potential, ensuring powerful starts and quiet operation.
The on-board generator is optimised in conjunction with the engines, which helps to reduce fuel consumption. The unit, located at the front of the lower part of the vehicle, supplies electricity to the battery when necessary.
The Outlander PHEV’s combustion engine is a 2.36-litre, 16-valve MIVEC DOHC unit that delivers 100 kW (136 hp) of power and 203 Nm of torque.
With a combined power output of 225 kW (306 hp) and an increased fuel tank capacity of up to 53 litres, the total range is up to 834 km.
The Outlander PHEV’s efficiency gets an extra boost thanks to heat pump water heating technology, which uses less energy and also delivers better heating performance in the climate control system. The heat pump works by compressing refrigerant using an electric compressor, whilst utilising the exhaust heat from the combustion engine to heat the car and save energy at the same time. As well as allowing the heating to be used whilst driving in electric mode with the combustion engine switched off, it can also operate the heating during pre-conditioning without starting the engine. In practice, therefore, the range of the electric vehicle is not significantly affected, even in cold weather.
Conceptually masterful
Visually, the new Outlander PHEV exudes character and elegance. Its bold exterior is designed for adventure, blending a fresh new look with subtle nods to Mitsubishi’s heritage. Designed with bold proportions, the front end features the Dynamic Shield to create a look that conveys performance and protection.
Its striking appearance is enhanced by the front lighting technology featuring advanced adaptive full-LED headlights. The low-beam headlights feature up to 12 individual LEDs to adjust the lighting settings according to driving conditions and provide better illumination over long distances without dazzling other vehicles.
The striking 18-inch or 20-inch black diamond-cut alloy wheels, combined with the muscular wheel arches and an elegantly sculpted rear end, are sure to turn heads. In addition to this, there are twelve colours available – five two-tone and seven monochrome – and four trim levels: Motion, Kaiteki, Kaiteki+ and First Edition.
The sophisticated design combines carefully selected materials with high-quality finishes that insulate the interior, creating a more peaceful and quiet experience. The improved interior layout provides more space for passengers, regardless of which seat they are sitting in, with the rear seats being particularly spacious.
The panoramic roof, measuring 928 mm in length and 702 mm in width, floods the cabin with light and enhances the feeling of freedom, whilst the driver’s seat features a screen that serves as the instrument panel. It measures 12.3 inches and is complemented by another screen of the same size in the centre, which is touch-sensitive and, of course, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In addition, a 15 W wireless phone charger is available. Everything has been designed to operate reliably and respond accurately.
One interior feature that is used constantly but rarely mentioned is the rear-view mirror; the new Outlander PHEV features a sophisticated frameless digital rear-view mirror that blends seamlessly into the cabin’s design and improves overall visibility. When it is difficult to see behind the vehicle due to passengers or luggage, or because of weather conditions, the driver can view the rear-view camera feed, which improves rear visibility and enhances driving safety.
The model features enhanced seat technology to improve comfort and functionality; heating and ventilation systems, a massage function and improved support deliver a premium experience, with three colour options and four fabric choices available, all featuring high-quality stitching.
Thanks to a partnership with the renowned audio equipment manufacturer Yamaha, the new Outlander PHEV features Dynamic Sound, an eight- or twelve-speaker audio system specially designed to optimise the cabin’s acoustics and deliver a premium surround-sound experience, as well as an even more exciting, comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
Alternatively, you can customise the new Outlander PHEV to give it a more adventurous look. The Trail accessory pack delivers rugged off-road styling with a range of matt black features, including: front bumper trim, front corner trim, rear bumper trim, side skid plates and mudflap protectors.
Without a doubt, this appealing Mitsubishi SUV is an excellent, smart and versatile choice, capable of meeting absolutely every need, whether on short or long journeys. It can handle anything.
