Mitsubishi reintroduces Outlander PHEV

SIX months after the updated Outlander petrol range comes Mitsubishi’s updated Outlander PHEV.

Available in four variants, and due in local showrooms early in the new year, the upgraded Outlander PHEV features increased battery power and range alongside several other tweaks aimed at keeping it in sight of the competition.

While pricing is yet to be announced, GoAuto understands the updated Outlander PHEV will run a larger 22.7kWh lithium-ion battery pack to deliver an increased electric-only range of 86km, representing a small uptick over the outgoing model.

All-wheel drive is carried over, as is the powertrain pairing of a 100kW/203Nm 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an 85kW/255Nm front electric motor and 100kW/195Nm rear electric motor for 185kW all told.

Mitsubishi says the petrol engine can “intelligently” act as a generator or supply power to the front wheels directly, based on demand.

Ride and handling calibration was developed in conjunction with the petrol range to suit Australia’s “unique” road conditions and buyer requirements, resulting in a “refined suspension and steering systems with a deeply Australian connection,” says the importer.

Like the petrol range, the new Outlander PHEV variants benefit from Dynamic Sound Yamaha audio technologies that Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) says brings heightened sophistication to the cabin.

There is also a new steel bonnet and front guards to cut noise in the cabin.

Further quieting the Outlander PHEV are new summer-specific Bridgestone tyres aimed at bolstering on-road performance and refinement.

“The Mitsubishi Outlander has resonated with Australian customers since its market launch in 2021, and we’re confident this next PHEV model range will be no exception,” said Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited general manager of product strategy Bruce Hampel.

“The updated Outlander PHEV exemplifies Mitsubishi’s renowned ingenuity with its latest-generation PHEV powertrain featuring the best of both worlds.

“It’s also more powerful than ever before, while simultaneously improving efficiency and pure EV capability.

“A sophisticated new aesthetic, refined interior, substantially improved NVH and Australian-tuned dynamics continue to shape Outlander’s reputation as a value-driven, capable and popular Medium SUV.

“For the Outlander PHEV we also offer an eight-year/160,000-kilometre drive battery warranty on top of Australia’s first 10-year vehicle warranty program, with 10 years’ capped price servicing.”

The Outlander PHEV line-up comprises ES, Aspire, Exceed, and Exceed Tourer variants with full pricing and specification details to be confirmed closer to the launch date.