2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Review: Is This the Best Plug-in Hybrid SUV?
In an era where hybrid and electric vehicles are taking center stage, the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV emerges as a compelling option in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment. With a combination of versatility, power, and advanced technology, the Outlander PHEV continues to attract eco-conscious consumers looking for a family-friendly SUV that doesn’t compromise on performance. This review dives into the details of what makes the 2024 model stand out and whether it deserves the title of the best plug-in hybrid SUV on the market.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV features an upgraded powertrain that combines a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors. This configuration delivers a total system output of 248 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, making it a more powerful option compared to its previous generations. The front electric motor produces 114 horsepower, while the rear motor generates 134 horsepower. Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system ensures that power is distributed effectively to all four wheels, providing excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions.
One of the most significant advantages of the Outlander PHEV is its electric-only driving range. Mitsubishi has equipped the 2024 model with a larger 20-kWh battery, allowing the vehicle to travel up to 38 miles on electric power alone, an improvement over the previous model year. This range is competitive within the plug-in hybrid segment, making it a suitable option for daily commutes or short trips without needing to rely on the gasoline engine. When both the gas and electric motors work in tandem, the total range extends to over 400 miles, which is impressive for a plug-in hybrid SUV of this size.
The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, ensuring a smooth driving experience. Drivers can choose between several driving modes, including EV mode, which prioritizes electric power, and Series Hybrid mode, which uses the gasoline engine as a generator to recharge the battery. There’s also Parallel Hybrid mode, which uses both the engine and electric motors for optimal performance. Additionally, Mitsubishi has included regenerative braking technology, allowing the battery to recharge while decelerating, further enhancing efficiency.
Fuel Efficiency and Charging
Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for buyers considering a plug-in hybrid, and the 2024 Outlander PHEV delivers commendable results. In hybrid mode, the vehicle achieves an estimated 64 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), making it one of the more efficient options in its class. On gasoline alone, the Outlander PHEV gets around 26 MPG, which is respectable for a midsize SUV.
Charging the Outlander PHEV is a straightforward process. Using a standard 120-volt household outlet, the battery can be fully charged in approximately 12 hours. However, with a Level 2, 240-volt charger, the charging time decreases to about 6.5 hours. For those who need quicker charging, the Outlander PHEV also supports DC fast charging, which can bring the battery up to 80% capacity in just 38 minutes. This flexibility in charging options makes the vehicle more practical for a range of users, whether they have access to a home charger or rely on public charging stations.
Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, it’s evident that the automaker has focused on creating a more refined and comfortable cabin. The interior is spacious, offering seating for up to seven passengers, which is a standout feature among plug-in hybrid SUVs. The three-row configuration is versatile, with the second and third rows capable of folding down to create a flat load floor, offering up to 78.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
The materials used throughout the cabin have been upgraded, giving the interior a more premium feel. Soft-touch surfaces, available leather upholstery, and high-quality trim pieces contribute to a more upscale ambiance. The front seats are well-bolstered and supportive, making long drives more comfortable. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are standard on higher trims, adding to the vehicle’s appeal in colder climates.
Technology plays a significant role in enhancing the driving experience. The 2024 Outlander PHEV comes equipped with a standard 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Both screens are crisp and responsive, providing easy access to various functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration. The infotainment system also supports voice commands and comes with built-in navigation on higher trims.
For audiophiles, Mitsubishi offers a premium Bose sound system, delivering crisp and immersive audio throughout the cabin. Rear-seat passengers can also enjoy their own climate controls and USB charging ports, ensuring everyone stays comfortable and connected on long journeys.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety is a top priority for Mitsubishi, and the 2024 Outlander PHEV is no exception. The vehicle comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as standard. These features include forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims also offer adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system, making it easier to navigate tight spaces and parking lots.
Mitsubishi has also improved the structural integrity of the Outlander PHEV, incorporating more high-strength steel into the chassis to enhance crash protection. This focus on safety has resulted in the vehicle receiving high marks in crash tests, further solidifying its position as a family-friendly SUV.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV reflects the brand’s latest design language, which emphasizes bold, dynamic styling. The front fascia is dominated by Mitsubishi’s signature Dynamic Shield grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights and daytime running lights. The overall look is aggressive yet refined, giving the Outlander PHEV a strong road presence.
The side profile is characterized by clean lines and a high beltline, creating a sense of motion even when the vehicle is stationary. The 18-inch or optional 20-inch alloy wheels add to the SUV’s athletic stance, while the available two-tone roof gives it a more distinctive appearance. At the rear, the LED taillights and sculpted bumper complete the modern look, ensuring the Outlander PHEV stands out in a crowded SUV market.
Mitsubishi offers the Outlander PHEV in several color options, including vibrant shades like Red Diamond and Cosmic Blue, as well as more understated tones like White Diamond and Mercury Gray. This range of colors allows buyers to customize the vehicle to their taste, further enhancing its appeal.
Driving Experience
On the road, the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV delivers a smooth and composed ride. The suspension system has been tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, ensuring passengers remain comfortable even on rough terrain. The steering is precise, offering a good balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making the Outlander PHEV easy to maneuver in urban environments and stable on the highway.
The vehicle’s all-electric mode is particularly impressive, providing quiet and serene driving, especially in city traffic. The electric motors deliver instant torque, allowing the Outlander PHEV to accelerate briskly from a standstill. When additional power is needed, the gasoline engine kicks in seamlessly, ensuring there’s always enough power on tap for overtaking or climbing steep hills.
Off-road enthusiasts will also appreciate the Outlander PHEV’s capability. With its all-wheel-drive system and selectable drive modes, including gravel and snow settings, the SUV can handle light off-roading with confidence. While it’s not intended for extreme off-road adventures, the Outlander PHEV is more than capable of tackling dirt roads, muddy trails, and snowy conditions, making it a versatile choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Pricing and Value
One of the key considerations for any plug-in hybrid SUV is pricing, and the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is competitively priced within its segment. The base model starts around $39,000, which is reasonable given the amount of standard equipment and technology it offers. Higher trims, such as the SEL and GT, can push the price closer to $50,000, but they come with additional luxury features like leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver assistance systems.
When considering the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for eligible buyers, the Outlander PHEV becomes an even more attractive option. State incentives may further reduce the cost, depending on where you live, making it more affordable for eco-conscious buyers.
The Outlander PHEV’s fuel savings over time also contribute to its overall value proposition. With the ability to drive in electric mode for most short trips, owners can significantly reduce their fuel consumption, especially if they have access to home charging.
Conclusion: Is It the Best Plug-in Hybrid SUV?
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV makes a strong case for being one of the best plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market. Its combination of electric-only driving range, versatile interior, and comprehensive safety features make it a well-rounded choice for families and individuals alike. While there are other strong contenders in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime and the Ford Escape PHEV, the Outlander PHEV stands out with its seven-passenger seating, off-road capability, and competitive pricing.
For buyers seeking a plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a balance of practicality, efficiency, and modern technology, the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is certainly worth considering. Whether