History/Overview
In 2018, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV became the brand's first plug-in hybrid model, and the auto industry's first affordably priced plug-in SUV model. It quickly became one of Canada's most popular plug-in vehicles, partly thanks to federal government purchase incentives. A conventional gasoline-powered Outlander is covered in a separate buyer's guide entry.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
For 2020, the Outlander PHEV sees minor changes to its list of standard features. The entry-level SE model now includes a power front passenger seat, and a standard 8.0-inch infotainment display replaces a 7.0-inch display. At the other end of the range, the GT trim adds quilted leather seat upholstery.
Available Trims
Mitsubishi sells the Outlander PHEV in SE, LE, SEL and GT trims. All share a 2.0L gas engine that works with a two-motor electric drive system whose battery promises 35 km of driving range on a full charge. AWD and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are standard.
Standard Features
Outlander PHEV SE comes with tire pressure monitoring, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, 18-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights, fog lights, heated/power-folding side mirrors, LED taillights, heated front seats, power-adjustable front seats, artificial suede upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, passive keyless entry, Bluetooth, an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker stereo, tilt-and-telescopic steering, and rain-sensing wipers.
LE trim adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power tailgate, heated steering wheel, and a sunroof.
SEL brings LED headlights, LED fog lights, leather upholstery, and a black headliner.
Finally, GT trim gains forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, quilted leather upholstery, an 8-speaker stereo, and surround view exterior camera views.
Key Options
The Outlander PHEV's few options include front and rear parking sensors, LED floor and shifter illumination, and grey leather upholstery.
Fuel Economy
Mitsubishi's fuel consumption estimates for the Outlander PHEV are 3.2 Le/100 km when running on battery power; and 9.4/9.0 L/100 km (city/highway) in hybrid mode.
Competition
As we write this, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has no direct competition. It will soon, however, as Toyota is readying the first-ever plug-in version of its RAV4 hybrid.
