Mitsubishi to release new Outlander plug-in hybrid with bigger battery

Japanese automaker Mitsubishi will launch a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model of its all-new Outlander crossover SUV, which will come with an increased battery capacity and likely land in Australia in the first half of 2022.

Mitsubishi already offers three Outlander PHEV models – the Outlander PHEV ES, GSR, and Exceed – which start at just under $52,000 drive-away.

The new Outlander will utilise what Mitsubishi describes as a “new-generation PHEV system” and would also boast “improved motor output and increased battery capacity” as compared to the existing Outlander PHEV models.

While the three current Outlander PHEVs available in Australia only have seating for 5 – despite the diesel and petrol options offering a seven seater option – the new Outlander PHEV would boast seating for seven passengers thanks to the newly developed design of the vehicle and presumably location of battery packs and engine.

Mitsubishi are billing their new Outlander PHEV as an “EV for everyday driving and a hybrid vehicle for excursions”.

The first Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV debuted in 2013 and has since gone on to sell in more than 60 countries around the world, becoming a leader in the PHEV category.

Announcing the promised new Outlander PHEV, Mitsubishi highlighted “the benefits of PHEVs” as being not only “environmental friendliness” but also “low reliance on charging infrastructure”.

Mitsubishi have also confirmed that the new Outlander PHEV will be a twin-motor four-wheel-drive “with the company’s unique Mitsubishi Motors-ness” – which, amusingly, refers to “a combination of safety, security (peace of mind) and comfort.”