Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a plug-in hybrid SUV that's been making waves in the automotive world. If you're looking for a vehicle that combines the practicality of an SUV with the efficiency of a hybrid, this might just be the car for you. We'll cover everything from its performance and design to its technology and overall value. Buckle up, and let's get started!

What is a Plug-In Hybrid Anyway?

Before we delve into the specifics of the 2023 Outlander PHEV, let's quickly recap what a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) actually is. Unlike traditional hybrids that use regenerative braking and the engine to recharge the battery, a PHEV can be plugged into an external power source to charge its battery. This gives you a longer all-electric range, meaning you can drive solely on electric power for a certain distance before the gasoline engine kicks in. This is awesome for reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on fuel, especially if your daily commute is relatively short.

PHEVs strike a balance between fully electric vehicles (EVs) and traditional hybrids. They offer the advantage of electric driving for daily use while eliminating the range anxiety associated with EVs. You can drive electric when it makes sense and switch to gasoline for longer trips. For many drivers, this flexibility makes PHEVs an attractive option. You get the best of both worlds without having to make significant changes to your driving habits or worry about finding charging stations on long journeys. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV enhances this concept with its advanced technology and spacious design, making it a compelling choice for families and environmentally conscious drivers alike. It’s designed to seamlessly integrate into your lifestyle, providing both efficiency and convenience in a single package.

Performance and Powertrain

Let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV boasts a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors – one on the front axle and one on the rear, providing all-wheel drive. The combined output is a respectable 248 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. This setup provides brisk acceleration and confident handling, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The electric motors deliver instant torque, which translates to quick off-the-line performance.

The all-wheel-drive system, known as Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions. It actively manages the distribution of torque between the front and rear wheels, optimizing grip and control. This is particularly useful in inclement weather, such as rain or snow, where maintaining traction is crucial for safety. The S-AWC system also includes several driving modes, including Normal, Eco, Snow, and Tarmac, allowing you to tailor the vehicle's performance to the specific conditions. In Eco mode, the vehicle prioritizes electric driving to maximize efficiency, while in Tarmac mode, it enhances performance for spirited driving on paved roads. The 2023 Outlander PHEV provides a driving experience that is both engaging and efficient, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.

Electric Range and Charging

One of the key features of the 2023 Outlander PHEV is its all-electric range. It can travel up to 38 miles on electric power alone, which is perfect for daily commutes and errands. Once the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in, and the vehicle operates as a regular hybrid. Charging the battery is simple and convenient. Using a standard 120V outlet, it takes approximately 16 hours to fully charge the battery. However, with a 240V Level 2 charger, you can reduce the charging time to around 6.5 hours. Additionally, the Outlander PHEV supports DC fast charging, which can charge the battery to 80% in just 38 minutes.

The availability of DC fast charging is a significant advantage, as it allows you to quickly replenish the battery while on the go. This is particularly useful for longer trips where you may need to top up the battery at public charging stations. Mitsubishi has also partnered with various charging networks to provide Outlander PHEV owners with access to a wide network of charging locations. You can easily locate nearby charging stations using the vehicle's navigation system or a smartphone app. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is designed to make electric driving as convenient as possible, with a variety of charging options to suit your needs. The combination of a usable electric range and flexible charging options makes it an excellent choice for drivers looking to reduce their environmental impact and save money on fuel.

Exterior and Interior Design

The 2023 Outlander PHEV sports a bold and modern exterior design. The front fascia features Mitsubishi's Dynamic Shield design, with a large grille and sleek LED headlights. The overall look is both stylish and aggressive, giving the SUV a distinctive presence on the road. The body lines are clean and sculpted, and the rear end features distinctive LED taillights that wrap around the corners of the vehicle. The exterior design is a significant improvement over the previous generation, with a more refined and contemporary aesthetic.

Inside, the 2023 Outlander PHEV offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The interior is available in a variety of colors and materials, including leather upholstery and wood trim. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample space for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard is clean and modern, with a large infotainment display and well-organized controls. The overall impression is one of quality and attention to detail. The interior is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The use of premium materials and thoughtful design elements contributes to a sense of luxury and refinement. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a vehicle that you can be proud to drive and comfortable spending time in.

Technology and Features

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is packed with technology and features designed to enhance your driving experience. It comes standard with a 9-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features. Higher trim levels add features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a premium Bose sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. The advanced safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, providing added peace of mind on the road.

The available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides a wealth of information at a glance, including speed, fuel economy, and navigation directions. The premium Bose sound system delivers immersive audio quality, making every drive a pleasure. The panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of natural light, creating a bright and airy cabin. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is designed to provide a connected and comfortable driving experience, with all the latest technology and features you could want. Mitsubishi has clearly focused on providing a vehicle that is both technologically advanced and user-friendly, making it a compelling choice for tech-savvy drivers.

Safety Ratings and Features

Safety is always a top priority, and the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV doesn't disappoint. It has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Outlander PHEV is designed to protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision, with a strong and rigid body structure and a comprehensive suite of safety features.

The advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) work together to help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of collisions. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time. Lane departure warning alerts the driver if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane, while blind-spot monitoring warns of vehicles in the driver's blind spots. Rear cross-traffic alert helps prevent accidents when backing out of parking spaces. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is equipped with the latest safety technology, providing added peace of mind on every journey. Mitsubishi has made safety a top priority, ensuring that the Outlander PHEV is one of the safest vehicles in its class.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is available in several trim levels, each offering a different combination of features and equipment. The base ES trim comes standard with a 9-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features. Higher trim levels add features like leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. Pricing for the 2023 Outlander PHEV starts at around $40,000 and can range up to $50,000 depending on the trim level and options. It's important to compare the different trim levels and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

When considering the price, it's important to factor in the potential savings on fuel and the available federal tax credits. The 2023 Outlander PHEV is eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of ownership. Additionally, you'll save money on fuel thanks to the vehicle's electric range and efficient hybrid powertrain. Over the long term, the Outlander PHEV can be a more affordable option than a traditional gasoline-powered SUV. Mitsubishi offers a variety of financing and leasing options to help make the Outlander PHEV accessible to a wide range of buyers. The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV represents a compelling value proposition, combining advanced technology, impressive fuel efficiency, and a competitive price.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's quickly summarize the pros and cons of the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV:

Pros:

• Excellent all-electric range
• Standard all-wheel drive
• Spacious and well-appointed interior
• Comprehensive suite of safety features
• Eligible for federal tax credits

Cons:

• Higher price tag compared to traditional SUVs
• Charging time can be lengthy with a standard outlet
• Some competitors offer more advanced technology features

Final Verdict

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a compelling option for buyers looking for a plug-in hybrid SUV. It offers a good balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality. The all-electric range is impressive, and the standard all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in various driving conditions. While it may not be the cheapest SUV on the market, the potential savings on fuel and the available tax credits make it a worthwhile investment. If you're in the market for a PHEV, the Outlander PHEV is definitely worth considering.

So, what do you think, guys? Is the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV the right car for you? Let us know in the comments below! Happy driving!