Features
21 fév 18

Mitsubishi puts Outlander PHEV on a higher level 

Introduced back in 2013, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is undoubtedly Mitsubishi’s flagship. Although visual changes are rather subtle, the Outlander PHEV model year 2019 carries a lot of new technology that should make driving more pleasant, including a next generation system with both EV and SUV novelties.

On the outside the new Mitsubishi Outlander received a number of subtle improvements such as new LED tech-look headlamps, rectangular fog lamp bezels, a more substantial front grill with the ‘dynamic shield’ visual identity, a front centre cover skid plate and a larger rear spoiler. Inside, a fine leather upholstery, front seats with better lateral support, a new instrument panel, a revised switchgear and rear A/C outlets increase the quality feeling of the Outlander PHEV.

The new Outlander's interior

Torquier power plant

For spotting the most significant change one should open the car’s hood to discover the all new Atkinson-cycle 2.4-liter unit, replacing the former Otto-cycle 2.0 petrol engine. This new power plant offers an increased torque. 

Although Mitsubishi doesn’t reveal output numbers for its new engine, it states that the torque has increased beyond the 186 Newton-meters of torque attainable at 4,500 rpm in the previous model. When it comes to horsepower, Mitsubishi veils itself in silence once again. Albeit that the Outlander PHEV will benefit from a 10% generator output hike and a 10% boost of the rear motor’s output. Moreover, Mitsubishi also increased the capacity of the Outlander PHEV’s lithium-ion battery pack from 12 to 13.8 kWh, while the battery’s output has also grown by 10%. This should normally extend the electric range of the car compared to the 22 mile autonomy of the outgoing model.

Mitsubishi also improved the abilities of the Outlander PHEV on difficult terrain by giving the 4WD system additional modes. The Normal and 4WD lock modes of the previous model are now joined by both a snow mode and a sport mode. The first provides greater grip on snow-covered or slippery surfaces, whilst the latter gives more direct control to the driver. That should result in greater driving enjoyment on winding roads.

The new Outlander PHEV will be officially revealed at the Geneva International Motorshow, to be held from March 6 through March 18, 2018, and will be introduced to the European market this autumn.

Author: Dirk Willemen