Driving the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: greater range, refinement, and safety

After first generation of the model, launched in 2013, now comes the new edition of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a much more compact SUV more refined and versatile, which combines the power of three engines, two of them electric along with a 2.4-liter gasoline engine, which generate a total power of 306 hp. It has a lithium-ion battery capable of powering the electric motors and providing a Range of up to 85 km without turning on the combustion engine and up to 834 km with the combination of both.

The new Outlander PHEV offers striking aesthetics with nods to the classic Montero off-roader, with a wide front grille, robust bumpers and adaptive Full LED lighting system.

It features 18- or 20-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim level, and the rear features a hexagonal design. It is offered in 12 different colors and four trim levels (Motion, Kaiteki, Kaiteki+ and FirstEdition).

Good finish

The interior has been carefully crafted using high-quality materials; it features digital instrument panel, wide infotainment screen, heated and ventilated seats, massage function with three color options and four trim options.

The seats for the Rear passengers also include independent heating and higher backrests with the possibility of folding the backrest in a 40:20:40 configuration. It offers large panoramic sunroof: 928 mm long and 702 mm wide, while The trunk, with a large access door, has a capacity of 495 liters., which can reach up to 803 liters.

It incorporates cutting-edge technology, with high definition displays, wireless duplication and voice control system, associated with a Dynamic Sound equipment, developed with Yamaha, with 8 or 12 speaker options. The customizable digital display is 12,3″ and the additional touchscreen is the same size with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also features a 15W wireless charging system for mobile devices.

powerful engines

The new Outlander PHEV combines a 2.4-liter, 16-valve MIVEC DOHC gasoline engine with two electric motors, one front 85 kW (116 hp) and rear 100 kW (136 hp). This configuration provides up to 302 hp combined power, which represents an increase in power of more than 40% compared to the previous generation. It promises a Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7,9 seconds and its top speed is limited to 170 km/h.

The lithium ion battery has increased its capacity to 22,7 kWh, allowing a Range of up to 85 km in electric-only mode WLTP. In combination with the combustion engine, the total range reaches 834 km. In addition, its new liquid cooling system improves battery efficiency.

Offer three driving modes: The mode electric, which uses only electric motors; the mode series hybrid, where the gasoline engine acts as a generator to power the electric motors; and the mode parallel hybrid, in which the combustion engine works together with electric motors to improve performance on long journeys.

Available four different configurations to achieve more efficient energy management: Normal, which automatically adjusts the use of electricity and gasoline; EV, for fully electric driving; Save (Save), which prioritizes battery saving; and Charge (Charging), which recharges the battery while driving. To provide greater range, it features a heat pump cooling system, which reduces energy consumption.

In terms of recharging, it supports CHAdeMO fast charger, commonly used in Japan, but practically obsolete in Europe, with which you can reach the 80% charge in approximately 32 minutes. If an AC charger is used 3,5 kW Schuko, full charge takes about 6,5 hours. It also offers Power outlets to power electrical devices up to 1.500 W power in the center console and trunk.

Good performance on track and road

Announces a increased torsional rigidity and an optimized multi-link suspension, with lightweight aluminum components that reduce weight, as well as electric power steering double pinion and combined S-AWC drive system (Super All Wheel Control) with seven driving modes adjustable according to ground conditions.

Also includes hill descent control system, which together with his ground clearance of 199 mm and approach and departure angles of 18,7° and 22,5°, respectively, facilitate smooth movement around the field.

To increase safety and comfort of use it has sensors, radars and cameras to provide a 360° view of the environment, as well as their frontal collision mitigation system that detects pedestrians and cyclists, rear emergency braking, system of blind spot warning, control of adaptive cruise, signal recognition and driver supervision, and has trailer stability assist system, which corrects roll by applying brakes or reducing engine power.

The benefits it offers are good, with ability to accelerate brilliantly, good recoveries and a correct coupling of the electric motors with the combustion engine that facilitates its use on all types of routes.

And nail firm but not uncomfortable suspensions, allows you to tackle winding road sections at brisk paces with confidence and determination, even when driving on deteriorated tracks or with low grip, since The traction system facilitates movement with ease.

Prices and accessories

Design, protection, and functionality packages are available to personalize the new Outlander PHEV. Trail package includes matte black accents. They are offered l18 or 20 inch wheels, trailer hitch, roof bars and a sporty rear spoiler. Inside you can add Illuminated entry guards, trunk organizers and coat hooks to hang clothes.

It includes 5-year or 100.000 km warranty, plus three additional years of extended conditional coverage, up to 8 years or 160.000 km. Also comes with an 8-year or 160.000 km battery warranty and 8-year roadside assistance, with the final three years subject to the same conditions as the extended warranty.

The brand offers a RRP with financing and commercial discount of 4.000 euros, with which the range The Motion version starts at €44.300. The Kaiteki is priced at €49.900; the Kaiteki+ costs €52.500; and the First Edition reaches €54.500..

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