Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are a great transition between standard hybrids and fully electric vehicles. PHEVs are fitted with larger battery packs than those found in hybrids, which provide extra driving range at higher speeds on electric power, ultimately saving on fuel. In addition, plugging your PHEV in before you go allows you to enjoy higher fuel efficiency because the battery is immediately ready to use and doesn’t need to wait to be charged by the engine while you drive.

Some of the best PHEV SUVs on the market are the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander and Kia Sportage. Surprisingly, the Outlander has outpaced the Kia Sportage in this segment. We’ll discuss some of the advantages that Mitsubishi’s Outlander has over the Kia Sportage. 

The Outlander has a better price offer

According to Mitsubishi Motors, the 2022 Outlander’s price starts at $36,995, while Kia Sportage has a starting price of $38,490, as outlined by Edmunds. Buying the Outlander could save car buyers a lot of cash while getting a high-quality vehicle with outstanding performance. 

The Outlander offers several safety features, a comfortable interior, smooth, responsive handling, a modern, user-friendly infotainment system, and a five-seat capacity. Given all it has to offer and that it costs less than the Kia Sportage, the Mitsubishi Outlander stands out as an excellent option. 

Mitsubishi Outlander has a bigger fuel tank

According to Edmunds, the Outlander boasts a 11.3-gallon fuel tank, which is slightly bigger than the 11.1-gallon fuel tank in the Kia Sportage. With a large battery pack, a bigger fuel tank allows the Mitsubishi Outlander to deliver more mileage with outstanding fuel economy. 

The Mitsubishi Outlander also has a bigger battery pack that delivers 20 kWh. It is stronger than the Kia Sportage’s battery, which is only 13.8 kWh. Mitsubishi Motors claims the Outlander has an all-electric range of 24 miles on a full charge, and a combined 74 MPGe.

In addition, the Mitsubishi Outlander comes with a standard capless fueling system—eliminating the need for cap replacement. The Outlander is a better option for those who want additional battery range while still having access to fuel in case a longer trip is necessary.

The Outlander has more maximum cargo capacity

Car buyers with larger families often go for SUVs with extra seating and cargo space. Previous Mitsubishi Outlander SUV models came with a seven-seat capacity, but the 2022 PHEV version only has a five-seat capacity. Mitsubishi reduced the seating space to accommodate the extra large battery packs attached to it. Even so, the Outlander still has more maximum cargo capacity than the Kia Sportage.

Generally, the Outlander has one of the largest cargo volumes in the compact SUV segment. The Mitsubishi Outlander has a maximum cargo capacity of 66.6 cu-ft. There’s also an additional space under the boot floor for storing small things or keeping away non-essential items. 

The Kia Sportage, on the other hand, has a maximum cargo capacity of 65.5 cu-ft, plus expansive enough hip and shoulder room for better comfort and ease of movement, as outlined by Edmunds. Kia Sportage also added a 40/60 split-folding and reclining rear seat, allowing a combination of passengers and large cargo, as outlined by Kia.

With overall great features, luxurious interior, and more legroom than the Kia Sportage, suffice to say, the Mitsubishi Outlander offers great performance at a bargained price, making it the better option.