This week, in the Auto Guide Show, our presenters Antoine Joubert and Gabriel Gélinas are testing the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV at the Mécaglisse circuit in Notre-Dame-de-la-Merci.
The SUV has been renewed for a second generation, and 45% of Outlander sales come from Quebec. It is measured on the Toyota RAV4 Prime, the Ford Escape Plug-in and the Hyundai Tucson PHEV and Kia Sportage PHEV duo.
Convincing autonomy
“With the 20 kWh battery, you can get 61 kilometers of autonomy on paper. In perfect conditions you can achieve more, ie 70-75 or even 80 km of electric autonomy,” says Antoine. In winter, the distance is reduced to 50-54 km.
Photo: Germain Goyer
When driving, the expert notices the quieter ride and the significantly better noise insulation compared to the old version. In addition, it underlines the efficiency of the four-wheel drive.
A well-known engine
The Outlander uses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder coupled to two electric motors. “The combined output of these three engines is 248 hp, but what’s even more interesting is the 335 lb-ft of torque,” explains Gabriel. He notices the brisk acceleration thanks to the lightning-quick torque of the electric motors.
However, Antoine brings with it a disadvantage in relation to the thermal block. “That’s the weak point for me because it’s an engine that we’ve known for a very long time. It’s very reliable, but it has the disadvantage of being a little outdated technologically,” he specifies.
Photo: Antoine Joubert
As a result, consumption in hybrid mode is 9 L/100 km, well above that of the competition. Otherwise, the Outlander PHEV is available in five versions and prices range from $46,538 to $57,048 including freight and delivery. He is also eligible for provincial and federal rebates totaling $10,000.
You can find all our experts’ impressions in the video capsule at the top of this article. Don’t miss Le Guide de l’auto, every Saturday at 11:30am on TVA!