A Week With: 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE

Having introduced its flagship car, the Mitsubishi Outlander, might be all-new for 2022 and constructed with assist from the Nissan, the 2021 mannequin may not seem to be its worthy of your consideration.

But surprisingly, it’s. Uniquely, for its last mannequin 12 months of the present technology, Mitsubishi presents its crossover solely as a plug-in hybrid electrical car. The gas-only mannequin returns for 2022 and is already on sale. The brand new PHEV will debut within the second half of this 12 months.

This delay makes the 2021 mannequin effectively price contemplating, even when it’s been neglected within the market. The truth is, it’s so neglected, Shopper Studies didn’t trouble testing it. 

And but it shouldn’t. For the Outlander PHEV LE proves to be peppy and fuel-efficient, though not fairly as enjoyable or frugal as some opponents. But it nonetheless proves to be a superior commuter bauble that shortly endears itself. 

Overview

Having axed its 4- and 6-cylinder fuel engines, the Outlander’s remaining plug-in hybrid driveline grows in energy, effectivity and functionality, gaining 2 miles in pure EV vary. Software program has been up to date for improved powertrain dynamics and lowered noise, vibration and harshness. All-wheel drive is normal, and Sport and Snow driving modes have been added to superb tune driver management in any state of affairs.

Accessible in SEL, LE, and GT trim ranges, the Outlander’s new LE trim positive aspects a normal sunroof, Mitsubishi sound system, blacked-out grille, distinctive 18-inch alloy wheels and particular blackout exterior trim.

Nonetheless, the elimination of fuel fashions makes the PHEV dear, though federal tax credit do assist mitigate the monetary hit. Mitsubishi says the Outlander PHEV’s enhancements makes it eligible for $6,587 in federal tax credit, a rise of $751 from final 12 months. Costs begin at $37,490 with vacation spot cost, however earlier than any tax credit or incentives. 

Exterior

Whereas its exterior form is designed for max inside house, its general look is acceptably present, with a symphony of shiny black plastic and brightwork accenting its mug. It’s unmistakably a Mitsubishi, one that’s additional superior with the 2022. Though its styling isn’t new, it doesn’t appear outdated both. Our LE tester had heated facet mirrors, however no spare tire. A tire restore equipment is normal.

Inside

The inside’s easy format isn’t flashy, however gives wonderful ergonomics, with giant chunky buttons which can be straightforward for function — particularly for the tech-averse. The infotainment display screen is straightforward to achieve, as its barely angled in direction of the driving force. It rests simply above the local weather controls.

Gloss black surfaces and diamond-quilted seat and door trim offset the intensive sea of onerous plastic that really feel extra frugal than fancy. Seats are comfortably agency, and much from punishing. It made lengthy journeys within the saddle doable. The inside is pretty quiet and accommodating, though it solely has two rows. Its nearly ineffective third row has correctly been axed to deal with hybrid elements and supply beneficiant cargo house. 

Powertrain

The Outlander PHEV is a collection hybrid, so the fuel engine powers a generator, whereas electrical motors energy the wheels. The 2021 mannequin makes use of a brand new, extra environment friendly, 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder fuel engine that produces 126 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.

A extra highly effective 70-kilowatt rear-axle-mounted electrical motor replaces final 12 months’s 60-kilowatt unit, producing 94 hp and 144 lb-ft of torque, whereas the unchanged entrance motor produces 80 hp and 101 lb-ft of torque. General, it makes a more-than-respectable 221 hp, a 31-hp enhance from 2020. 

Moreover, engineers additionally elevated battery capability to 13.8 kW/h from 12 kW/h. The powertrain gives 24 miles of electric-only vary, after which it reverts to straightforward gas-electric hybrid mode. High all-electric velocity is now 83 mph, up from 78 mph final 12 months. General, it delivers 320 miles of vary general based on the EPA. Our weeklong check drive returned 30.3 mpg. 

Along with the anticipated drive modes, the Outlander presents two different distinctive ones. There’s a Cost mode, the place the engine forsakes gasoline financial system for refueling the battery, and a Save mode that preserves battery cost for later EV-only use. Absolutely recharging the battery takes 4 hours utilizing Degree 2 charging.

Security and Expertise

Commonplace driver help security options embrace ahead collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, lane-change help and automated excessive beam.

Driving Impressions

Many have criticized the Outlander for its compliant journey, which is one in all its distinctive qualities. This lends the Outlander a snug demeanor. Sure, there’s some physique rebound, though it’s removed from extreme. No, it’s not a sports activities sedan, however that’s not why you purchase an Outlander.

As a substitute, this can be a four-season pal, one which returns higher than common gasoline financial system for its measurement, but proves nimble for the nip and tuck of city driving warfare. Whereas 0-60 mph instances could not set information, in the true driving world, the place the artwork parrying and dodging is important, the electrical motors’ on the spot torque gives a liveliness missing from a conventional four-cylinder fuel engine.

It’s endearing, in that its persona is distinct from its competitors, one which doesn’t conform to the inflexible dogma dictated by automotive magazines. Better of all, its measurement makes it splendid for squeezing into slender parking spots that populate city environments.

2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE Specs

Wrap Up

What looks like an excellent advertising and marketing transfer — providing its flagship crossover utility car solely as a plug-in electrical fuel electrical hybrid ­— seems to be a one-shot deal. It’s this form of scattershot considering that has led Mitsubishi to be neglected by customers, as the corporate modifications programs for no discernable cause.

But the Outlander is an attention-grabbing proposition, with a full of life persona; easy, easy-to-use instrumentation; and a measurement and luxury issue that make it a good selection for bombed out city environments. It’s price trying out and grabbing; it is going to be far totally different subsequent 12 months.

2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE ­– Continuously Requested Questions