The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Is Solving 1 Crucial Issue
It feels like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV just came out, so we’re surprised that it’s already receiving upgrades. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid is taking a significant step toward correcting one considerable problem.
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is getting more range
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV doesn’t hold a candle to rivals that offer more range. It has a 13.8-kWh battery pack that provides an EPA-estimated 22 to 24 miles of all-electric range. The Kia Sorento PHEV has a 32-mile range, and the Toyota RAV4 Prime offers up to 42 miles of range.
However, the 2023 model will have a 20-kWh battery pack. According to the WLTP cycle, it should be good for 54 miles of range. But Auto Blog suggests that the United States’ EPA numbers could be lower.
The capacity could increase by 45 percent. So, if you apply that to the miles, it’s safe to expect about 32 to 35 miles of electric range. This would help it catch up to the competition, but the luxurious Prime would still have quite the advantage.
What else is changing for the Outlander PHEV?
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is expected to gain a larger gas tank. This will increase this SUV’s overall range. It could have more power too. The current model has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. They combine forces to generate 221 hp.
Mitsubishi hasn’t shared official power ratings yet. But it did suggest that the electric motors will be more potent. Even if the new PHEV uses the same engine, it could have more horsepower.
Plus, the 2023 Outlander PHEV will have three rows of seats. The current model lost the third row. A revised rear motor that includes a motor controller as part of the unit created more space. The current unit has the controller located in the passenger unit. This change should reduce the amount of high-frequency noise in the cabin too.
Is the 2021 Outlander PHEV a good SUV?
Yes, the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a stout list of perks that make it worth buying, including standard all-wheel drive. However, it has an MSRP of $36,295. This price feels pretty steep unless you qualify for a state or federal tax credit.
It also has a bit of a sluggish performance. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 9.3 seconds. This is adequate and below average. You’ll still be able to pass people on the highway, though.
Driving in EV mode provides a quiet cabin. But other modes that put more strain on the engine can get loud. The ride quality is mostly smooth, but bigger impacts can send vibrations through the interior.
It comes with an 8.0-inch infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The system looks a little dated, and there are only three USB ports. Most competitors offer upgrades that include wireless charging pads and premium audio.
Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane-departure warning.
So, it sounds like the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV actually has a few more things to improve. More power will be nice, but we hope the ride quality and tech receive updates too.
