The new, 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has finally arrived in Australia, following the launch of the latest-look Outlander petrol and diesel versions in 2015.
For the PHEV – that’s plug-in hybrid electric vehicle – the SUV gets MY17 styling updates, including a revised front and rear end, LED headlights, silver skid plates, and a set of new-look 18-inch alloy wheels.
Inside has also been updated, with a fresh four-spoke steering wheel, soft-touch surfaces, gloss black trimmings, and a new headlining material with subtle stitching highlights.
As for the most interesting element though, the powertrain. It features a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 87kW and 186Nm, with help from a front electric motor rated at 60kW/137Nm and a rear motor at 60kW/195Nm, providing a combined output of 120kW and 332Nm.
Using the electric motors, the PHEV is able to drive without the petrol engine for a range of 54km. This helps to see the official average fuel consumption average drop to just 1.7L/100km.
Owners can recharge the battery using a DC fast charge socket, taking it to 80 per cent full in 25 minutes. Full charge requires around 6.5 hours with 230V at 10A, or 3.5 hours at 16A.
Two variant levels are being launched in Australia, spanning from the LS to the top Exceed. As standard, the PHEV comes with dual-zone climate control with rear vents under the front seats, auto wipers and headlights, a 7.0-inch touch-screen infotainment unit with digital radio, and various drive modes.
Stepping up to the Exceed gets you a power tailgate, leather seats, sunroof, and adaptive cruise control and a unique EV Remote smartphone app allowing users to set charging schedules and activate climate settings remotely.
The new model is on sale now, equipped with Mitsubishi’s five-year/100,000km warranty. Prices start from the following (excludes on-roads):
2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LS – $50,490
2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LS – $55,490
