On its arrival in Canada in 2018, the first-generation Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV immediately became top selling in its category. The all new 2023 Outlander PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) promises similar enthusiasm in Canada when it arrives in November with more power, greater range, larger battery, and new plug-in hybrid technology on top of more than 50 new features and technologies Canadians have discovered on the model year 2022 Outlander gas.
“In the next generation Outlander PHEV, we have significantly evolved our plug-in hybrid technology and built upon our considerable heritage in electrification and all-wheel drive. We are proud of how Canadians have embraced this vehicle over the past four years and look forward to their reaction when they drive the all-new vehicle,” said Kenji Harada, President and CEO, Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada, Inc. Outlander highlights include: First plug-in hybrid SUV in the world, First affordable plug-in hybrid SUV in Canada, Canada’s first plug-in hybrid to offer 4WD in 100% electric, Top-selling plug-in hybrid SUV in the world 2013 – 2020, and Top-selling plug-in hybrid SUV in Canada 2018, 2019, 2020. . The Outlander PHEV was first launched globally in 2013 as the first PHEV SUV in the non-luxury category.
The all-new Outlander PHEV model employs twin-motor AWD that consists of one motor at the front and another one at the rear of the vehicle. By taking advantage of the electric motors’ characteristic quick response, high precision and freedom in controlling the front and rear motors, the system optimally distributes the driving force between the front and rear wheels according to road and driving conditions. The EV-based PHEV system provides a unique drive feel that prioritizes smooth drive feel, quick acceleration and outstanding all-wheel drive.
The total motor output of the new twin electric motors is up more than 40%, giving the vehicle exhilarating power balanced between front and rear wheels. It allows for up to 54% power to the rear wheels to help Canadians conquer even the toughest winters.
The front axle motor generates 114HP, up from 80HP, while taking up a similar space within the vehicle. The rear motor achieves 134HP, up from 90HP previously. The rear motor features a new, integrated motor control unit occupying a smaller space than before, enabling the new Outlander PHEV to offer a three-row seating configuration for the first time. The twin electric system also enhances Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC)₁, Mitsubishi Motors’ all-wheel drive system. S-AWC benefits from the electric motors’ instant torque response, delivering drive to the wheels that can best deploy it faster than is possible from a conventional tail shaft driven AWD system.
The new drive battery is situated low in the chassis, fitted between the axles for optimum weight distribution. At 20 kWh, its storage capacity is 45 per cent larger than the previous version’s 13.8 kWh system. The new battery and twin electric motors are mated to a revised, specifically-tuned, Atkinson cycle 2.4-litre combustion engine.
Mitsubishi Motors’ S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) provides unprecedented AWD performance so Canadians can conquer our terrain in all seasons. The integrated S-AWC System, based on an all-new front- and rear-mounted electric twin motor AWD system, has a new brake AYC (Active Yaw Control) function for the rear wheels
Seven drive modes can be selected depending on road surface conditions and driving style. Normal is the basic mode, optimized for normal driving on paved roads. Tarmac mode provides brisk acceleration response and high-cornering performance on dry paved surfaces. Gravel mode provides balanced operability and road handling ability on unpaved or wet paved roads, and Snow mode delivers stable vehicle behavior on snowy and other slippery roads. Mud mode optimizes tire slippage according to vehicle speed for superior road handling on muddy roads and deep trenches of snow, while also providing better ability to escape when stuck. Modes that can be used according to driving style are Power mode, which delivers powerful acceleration when needed, and Eco mode which prioritizes economic and environmentally friendly driving.
Also new to the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a third row seat for maximum flexibility as standard equipment. Capturing the success of the new Mitsubishi Outlander, The Outlander PHEV adds to its appeal with dramatic exterior and luxurious interior design plus a long list of safety and personality inspired convenience features. New to Outlander PHEV will be the availability of an elegant two-tone roof option at the highest trim levels and for the first time massage front seats.
The Outlander PHEV comes with a fully transferable 10-year/160,000-km powertrain and battery limited warranty as well as a fully transferable 5-year /100,000-km comprehensive warranty, and 5-year unlimited kilometre roadside assistance. Mitsubishi Motors begins Canadian production at the Japanese Okazaki plant in October, with vehicles hitting Canadian shores in November. While full specs and features will be shared before the on sale date.