Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV «Instyle»: An impressive appearance
The first plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, version of the Outlander was launched back in 2014. Then as now, it is «quiet and powerful,» yet many people still don't have the Mitsubishi on their radar – and that's a shame!
The interior of the new Mitsubishi Outlander matches its successful exterior appearance – the traditional brand is showing courage, which is commendable. The 8-way electrically adjustable leather seat with heating and ventilation is stylish and, above all, very comfortable – in the test car with «Instyle» equipment, this even applies to the passenger side. Another feature we liked in this stately SUV was the efficient plug-in hybrid drive. The Outlander is powered by a 2.4-liter gasoline engine (136 hp/100 kW) and an electric drive with 115 hp/85 kW on the front axle and a 136 hp/100 kW electric motor on the rear axle.
The interaction works excellently in the 4×4 system, delivering the necessary extra thrust when needed thanks to 302 hp/225 kW of system power, and allowing the 2.2-ton SUV to sprint to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. It also cuts a fine figure as an elegant glider. Despite its all-wheel drive, it achieves a respectable 5.7 to 6.2 l/100 km at the gas station, depending on the proportion of the journey covered in electric mode. Those who charge the Mitsubishi more frequently with its 22.7 kWh battery and up to 86 kilometers of pure electric range can even travel with even less fuel.
Get the hang of it
As with previous Outlander generations, the new model is also a powerful towing vehicle (up to 1.6 tons) and, thanks to seven driving modes, is suitable for all-wheel drive on any surface. Simply switch from asphalt to gravel or snow using the rotary switch, and the system delivers optimum traction and control. Important: the EV button right next to the gear selector lever. Yes, there are still buttons in the intuitive cockpit of the Mitsubishi – and that's a good thing, because instead of laboriously scrolling through submenus, a single button press is often all it takes. The EV button allows you to set the drive mode yourself: save power for city driving, generate power with the combustion engine when needed thanks to the series hybrid mode, or simply drive in the powerful parallel hybrid mode.
Too much technology or no desire to intervene? Then simply let the system control everything itself and relax in the Japanese car's tasteful and spacious interior. Or transform the SUV into a rolling concert hall and turn up the volume. Thanks to the first-class Yamaha sound system with eight or – as in the test car – even twelve speakers, the Outlander really plays the music. And there are no discordant notes when it comes to price either: the Outlander PHEV starts at a fair CHF 53,990 (tester from CHF 64,490).
Expert opinion: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV «Instyle»
This all-rounder with its efficient drive is just as good as a solid glider on the highway as it is a powerful towing vehicle. And it impresses both inside and out with its stylish appearance.
With advantages
+ Intuitive operation, high-quality interior
+ Generous space and up to 1404 liters of storage space
+ Economical plug-in hybrid drive
Disadvantages
– May seem too traditional for young customers
– Unlike the interior, the trunk cover looks cheap.
