In a country familiar with sports utility vehicles, but not plug-in hybrid technology,
the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a puzzle – and it's a puzzle that has just been upgraded.
A larger 2.4-litre engine replaces the previous powerplant and provides added power and torque
for overtaking performance or towing.
According to Mitsubishi, the combined-cycle fuel consumption figure for the Outlander
PHEV has barely shifted from the previous figure of 1.7L/100km.
The plug-in Outlander's electric driving range remains 54km, despite improved battery capacity.
Two electric motors collectively deliver all-wheel drive traction and provide enough performance
to stay ahead of traffic without cranking over the petrol engine.
In addition to the mechanical changes, the Outlander PHEV offers a new paint colour – Red
Diamond metallic – and extra equipment.
The cabin of the upgraded Outlander PHEV has been carefully updated – with new upholstery
on the seats and doors, and a revised centre stack, including this eight-inch display for
the infotainment system, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
New equipment includes power-adjustable lumbar support for the driver's seat, two USB ports
in the rear of the centre console and forward collision alert at entry level.
On the move, the Outlander is actually enjoyable to drive – as much as a petrol/electric
SUV can be – and the steering is light enough for easy parking.
The ride comfort is a fine match for the cornering ability and the Outlander PHEV is very quiet
all round.
It's also well packaged, although the front passenger will slide forward under heavier
braking.
The running changes to the Outlander PHEV are accompanied by price increases.
That doesn't help the plug-in Outlander's total cost of ownership – another factor
for committed consumers to balance against environmental impact.
Whether the numbers add up for buyers depends on individual cases.
Owners of the Outlander PHEV spending the bulk of their driving time in urban traffic
and travelling no more than 20km each way between recharging will reap the benefits.
But the upgrade itself hits the target, scoring a point in the value column.
So if you're a buyer in that situation, the Outlander PHEV remains a commonsense choice
for consumers seeking a sensible, eco-friendly family wagon.