The secrets of the hybrid 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

This crossover from the Japanese manufacturer was one of the first hybrids on the market. Production began in 2012, when its closest competitors were just starting to move in this direction. The model was based on the third-generation Mitsubishi Outlander. Six years later, a more powerful facelifted version was introduced. However, the company was unable to establish itself as the leader in this niche. Due to a lack of technical updates and exterior changes, the car lost out to competitors such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Subaru Crosstrek PHEV.

Key Advantages of the Hybrid

As part of the upgrade, the all-wheel-drive “K2” class crossover received a 2.4-liter engine that produces 135 l. s. Although the specifications of the front electric motor remained unchanged, the power of the rear motor increased to 95 l.s. while maintaining the same torque rating (195 N·m). A higher-capacity battery (13.8 kW·h) has also been installed. Thanks to these upgrades, the car accelerates to 100 km/h faster—in 3.7 seconds. Its top speed has also increased to 135 km/h. The hybrid model offers the following advantages:

Comfort while driving. The single-speed transmission and redesigned suspension ensure a smooth, quiet ride. The preventive braking system works exceptionally well. It’s easy to switch from friction braking to regenerative braking mode. The steering wheel responds quickly to hand movements thanks to a special lining. This car is comfortable to drive on highways and city streets.
Ample space. With a 2.7-meter wheelbase, the interior offers plenty of room. In this regard, it surpasses even the most spacious Toyota RAV4. The trunk capacity is 453 liters. It increases to 1,584 liters when the rear seats are folded down.
The ability to recharge via regenerative braking. A fully charged battery provides enough range to travel up to 35 km on electric power alone. It can recharge to 80% in 25 minutes. When plugged into a power outlet, it takes 3.5 to 7 hours to reach 100% charge. Therefore, it is beneficial to use regenerative braking. Its intensity can be adjusted using the steering wheel paddles (from B0 to B5).
Comprehensive safety. The hybrid is equipped with adaptive cruise control, complemented by blind-spot monitoring, forward collision avoidance, parking assistance, and rear cross-traffic alert systems. It also features a surround-view camera, automatic high/low beam switching, and lane-keeping assist.
The all-wheel-drive system offers four modes: Normal, Snow, Sport, and Lock. As a result, the car handles city driving and challenging terrain with ease and can accelerate sharply.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is far from being a sports car, but it takes corners smoothly at 60 km/h thanks to its low center of gravity. The effective active stability control also helps.

What’s not so great about this model?

The interior design isn’t particularly innovative, and the technical aspects have remained largely unchanged. The only changes involve steering adjustments and exhaust manifold sound insulation, but otherwise, the updates are minimal. Although the dashboard has become more modern, the 7-inch display needs an upgrade. It responds poorly to touch inputs. The leather upholstery lends the interior a sense of sophistication. However, the buttons on the center console detract from the overall impression, making the interior feel cheap. Additional drawbacks include:

EV mode (electric-only driving) may turn off automatically if it’s very cold outside or the battery charge is below 30%;
the battery discharges even when the car is not moving, which reduces the driving range;
the tailgate responds with a delay when the open button is pressed;
the single gear ratio causes noise, which intensifies when driving at high speeds.

Bex Auto is ready to help you select and purchase a high-quality car that meets all your needs. We have cars in good condition in stock, so be sure to browse our catalog. If you don’t find a suitable option, our specialists will purchase a car on your behalf at a foreign auction and assist with the registration and customs clearance in Ukraine.