Comparing the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV to Earlier Outlander Models

Mitsubishi remains committed to enhancing their environmentally-friendly vehicles, consistently pushing the boundaries of green energy design. Their latest focus is on the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which has undergone significant advancements in its powertrain, promising to elevate its performance beyond the previous two iterations of this beloved SUV. While details about the exact upgrades remain somewhat limited, Mitsubishi is unwavering in its confidence in this new flagship vehicle.

The President of Mitsubishi reports that the new Outlander has consistently achieved impressive sales figures, even in the current economic climate, foreshadowing its position as the centerpiece of Mitsubishi's lineup upon its arrival in the US. Mitsubishi proudly asserts that it represents the brand's most advanced and well-equipped offering to date, seamlessly blending eco-friendliness and quiet operation with the convenience of a gasoline model's range and refueling capabilities. This level of acclaim is remarkable for a new model, prompting the question of how the latest iteration compares to its predecessors in the popular Outlander series.

It's All About Power

The initial Outlander version, spanning model years 2018-2019, boasted a 2.0L MIVEC engine, delivering an output ranging from 148 to 168 horsepower. In 2020-2022, this was upgraded to a 2.4L engine, resulting in modest horsepower gains, reaching a maximum of 221 hp, thanks to the enhanced 60 kW electric motors in both the front and rear.

For the 2023 model, the Outlander retains the 2.4L gas-powered engine but undergoes a significant power boost, estimated at 40 percent, primarily attributable to the inclusion of an 85 kW motor in the front and a 100 kW motor in the rear. This substantial enhancement brings the overall horsepower to an impressive 300 hp, coupled with a substantial 390 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, the drive battery's size has been substantially increased compared to earlier iterations.

Fuel Efficiency

While comprehensive specifications for the 2023 Outlander are not yet available, the noteworthy enhancement of its larger 20 kWh lithium-ion battery suggests a significant improvement in range compared to the previous year's 13.8 kWh battery. The previous model could cover approximately 24 miles on electric power alone before necessitating the activation of the gasoline engine. Notably, the 2018-2022 models achieved a fuel efficiency rating of around 74 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe), offering a combined range of 310 to 320 miles. It is highly anticipated that the 2023 model will surpass these figures, delivering even better efficiency and an extended range.

Other Notable Changes

The initial Outlander models featured seating for five occupants and a relatively modest interior. However, in 2022 and 2023, an optional third-row seating configuration was introduced, expanding the passenger capacity to seven individuals. Notably, the 2023 models now include Mitsubishi's Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) System as a standard feature, featuring enhanced Yaw Control to improve traction in various driving conditions. Additionally, the 2023 models offer seven distinct drive modes that allow for customized powertrain responses, a feature not found in previous iterations.