Electric vehicles are becoming more popular, but some people may still be hesitant to make the switch due to concerns about range anxiety. Fortunately, the latest plug-in hybrids offer a solution that straddles the line between all-electric and gasoline power, and one of the newest entrants in this category is the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. This vehicle has the potential to reestablish Mitsubishi’s foothold in the U.S. market.

One important aspect of the Outlander PHEV is its powertrain setup. It uses an inline four-cylinder engine, which can power the front wheels alone, turn a generator to recharge the battery, or power the front wheels along with a second front motor, depending on which option is the most energy efficient. The PHEV version of the Outlander features a different engine from the standard model, utilizing the Mitsubishi-designed Atkinson-cycle 2.4-liter four from the previous generation.

The two front motor-generators function as a continuously variable automatic transmission, with one powering the wheels and the other acting as a generator to recapture energy on overrun or braking, using it to recharge the battery. To provide all-wheel drive, a third electric motor powers the rear axle, with torque shuffled front to rear as required. This combination results in a total combined power output of 248 horsepower with peak torque of 332 pound-feet, significantly higher than the power output of the previous model.

The Outlander PHEV also features a larger lithium-ion battery pack, mounted below the cabin floor, with a capacity of 20.0 kilowatt-hours. This results in a projected range of 38 miles, up from the previous model’s 24 miles. While the onboard charger is still rated at just 3.3 kilowatts, meaning a total recharge from empty will take about 6.5 hours, Mitsubishi has included DC fast-charging on the higher trims, allowing for a battery recharge to 80 percent capacity in just 38 minutes. A portable 120-volt charging cord is included as standard.

Drivers of the Outlander PHEV have several options available to them, including three drive modes (Normal, Eco, or Power) and four traction options (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, or Mud). Additionally, there are four powertrain settings: Normal (or hybrid), EV (for electric-only driving), Save (to conserve battery range), and Charge (which uses the combustion engine to recharge the battery for later EV use). There is also an “innovative pedal” button, which allows for one-pedal driving with consistent deceleration, whether the powertrain is delivering hybrid, gasoline only, or fully electric power.

One unique feature of the Outlander PHEV is its Super–All Wheel Control suspension tuning, which is similar to the system used in Mitsubishi’s late lamented Evo performance sedan. The goal is to provide strong and smooth acceleration in electric mode that avoids the “FWD feel.” This is accomplished through a rear-wheel-drive bias in power delivery, with 100 kilowatts from the rear electric motor versus only 85 kilowatts at the front.

In conclusion, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offers an impressive combination of power and efficiency, making it an excellent option for anyone considering a plug-in hybrid vehicle. With its advanced powertrain and innovative features, this vehicle has the potential to help Mitsubishi regain its footing in the U.S. market.

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#ElectricVehicles
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