The updated Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is returning to the UK market in May with a starting price of £46,995. While the vehicle now offers seven seats as standard – a feature previously reserved for more expensive SUVs – its electric range is limited to just 28 miles. This positions the Outlander at a higher price point than key competitors, raising questions about its value proposition in a growing plug-in hybrid segment.
Price Comparison and Electric Range
The Outlander PHEV’s price undercuts rivals like the Hyundai Tucson PHEV (starting under £40,000) and the Volkswagen Tiguan PHEV (around £43,000). The upcoming Toyota RAV4 PHEV is expected to fall between £40,000 and £45,000. More significantly, these competitors offer substantially greater all-electric range: the Toyota RAV4 PHEV, for instance, can travel up to 85 miles on a single charge. This disparity in range may sway buyers prioritizing electric driving capability.
Seven Seats at a Cost
The Outlander’s standard seven-seat configuration differentiates it from many mid-size PHEVs. Only larger, more expensive models like the Kia Sorento, Volkswagen Tayron, and Hyundai Santa Fe traditionally offer this feature. However, significant discounts – up to £7,000 – are currently available on the plug-in Hyundai Santa Fe through services like Auto Express Buy A Car, making it a potentially more attractive option for families. The high-spec Diamond trim will only offer five seats.
Powertrain and Performance
Mitsubishi’s new Outlander PHEV combines a 2.4-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors and a 23kWh lithium-ion battery. This setup delivers all-wheel drive and a combined output of 304bhp, enabling 0-62mph acceleration in under eight seconds. The total combined range is estimated at 500 miles. The powertrain can operate in both range-extender mode (low speeds, engine as generator) and parallel hybrid mode (high speeds, direct drive with electric assist), resulting in efficiency ratings of 108mpg and 60g/km under European cycles.
Shared Technology with Nissan
The Outlander’s interior features a dual 12.3-inch digital display system closely resembling Nissan’s interfaces, including embedded Google Maps. Familiar switchgear and design elements, such as the Qashqai-style gear selector, further highlight Mitsubishi’s partnership with Nissan. Whether this software will be fully available in UK models at launch remains unconfirmed.
The Outlander PHEV represents a step forward in space, performance, and technology, but its high price compared to competitors with greater electric range may limit its appeal.
The new generation Outlander has been on sale in other markets for some time, meaning its powertrain is already proven. However, buyers in the UK will be paying a premium for the seven-seat option and shared technology, while sacrificing significant electric range compared to alternatives.
