Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid Details

Mitsubishi just began marketing its new production vehicle; the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. It’s based off of the all-new Outlander that was debuted this past summer, but the drivetrain has been created solely in house with direction gleaming from the Mitsubishi i-MiEV. The Outlander PHEV is the world’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, according to Mitsubishi.

This is an excited move for Mitsubishi and the auto industry in general! Mitsubishi says that the Outlander PHEV will get roughly 143 MPG (combining hybrid and electric), its range is 547 miles in combined gas and electric mode, but still achieves a range of over 34 miles in electric mode alone.

There are three modes for the Outlander PHEV; EV Drive Mode, Series Hybrid Mode and Parallel Hybrid Mode, all of which the car can automatically select from, depending on the conditions.

EV Drive Mode uses the front and rear electric motors for completely gas-free, electric driving. Series Hybrid Mode uses the gas engine (2.0 L) to power the electric motors. This mode will come into play with the electric motors have reached a certain point or when the vehicle needs more power (faster acceleration, driving up a steep hill). Drivers can also select a Manual Charge Mode, where the engine will charge the battery so the driver can spend more time in EV mode. Parallel Hybrid Mode predominately uses the gas engine; this mode is used at higher speeds.

As far as charging goes, the Outlander PHEV can be charged from zero to capacity in 4.5 hours, or with a higher wattage charger can get an “80 percent quick charge” in just 30 minutes.

Stay tuned for more info about the Outlander PHEV, it’s going on sale in Japan early on in 2013, and should be rolling over to the US shortly thereafter. We’ll keep you updated!

Electric version not for you? Check out our 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander or our 2012 & 2013 Outlander Sport selection by clicking the name of the vehicle! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our very own Certified Electric Vehicle Salesperson, Adam Crowley at (802) 865-4400 ex. 207.

All images and information via Green Car Reports