This week we’re taking a look at the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL Premium PHEV, a larger than compact-but smaller than midsized SUV that was completely redone in 2022. Technically, this a 3-row SUV, but understand that the third-row is for kids only.
Just so you know, the Outlander is a joint venture vehicle with Nissan and is based on the same platform as the popular Nissan Rogue.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that is mated to two electric motors. The electric motors are powered by a 20 kW Lithium-ion battery that will give you 38-miles of all-electric range, and it has a continuously variable transmission which Mitsubishi calls a 1-speed transmission. While I don’t love CVTs, this one is not annoying, it simulates shifts and you can actually use the shift paddles. My tester is the Super All-Wheel control system. Total range on battery and gas combined is a very appealing 420-miles.
There are different drive modes available, but EV mode will maximize your battery range and it will also give you one-pedal driving, which I enjoy. As you begin to slow down, the friction from the brakes sends power back to the EV battery for charging. Unlike some one-pedal systems, it will not bring you to a full stop.
If you are going to just use your 110-connection at home, you can get a full charge in about 16 hours. If you choose to have a Level 2 charger installed, you can drop the charge time to about 6 1/2 hours. If you go to a commercial Level 3 charger it will take just 38-minutes to get to an 80% charge from zero.
The exterior of this new Outlander struck me as very attractive when I walked up to it, especially with the White Diamond paint and a black roof.
The front fascia has LED driving lights on top, with LED headlights below. I like the big grill, and there are distinctive lines that run along the sides.
The flat roof is unusual for today, most slope down, and I like the way it looks. The 20” wheels with black accents are just beautiful.
When I really knew this SUV was something special is when I opened the door to reveal a truly luxurious interior. This is the SEL Premium trim, which is next to the top-of-the-line 40th Anniversary edition.
The leather seats are not only beautiful, but comfortable, with diamond designs on them that match the door panels. Stitching is everywhere, including across the dash. In a big surprise for an SUV in this price range, the front seats will give you a top-notch massage.
When you hit the start button, a colorful 12.3” digital gauge cluster comes to life and the graphics are as good as I’ve ever seen.
The center console is well done housing the gear shifter, the drive mode knobs, the auto hold button, a wireless charger, and USB ports.
Above that, is a 10.8” touchscreen where you operate the Bose sound system, the navigation system, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, real-time information, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is fast, easy to operate, and is one of the best I’ve seen. The cameras are crystal clear and have cross-traffic alert.
2nd row occupants get nice seat back pockets with a place for you cell phone. They also get heated seats, their own temperature controls, USB and USB-C ports, and the 2nd row seats slide and recline.
Now to the 3rd row seats, which should not be there. Do not consider this a 7-passenger SUV, it’s not. Plan to keep the 3rd row seats down and enjoy the cargo area.
This SEL Premium model comes extremely well equipped with a power panoramic moonroof, keyless entry, heated front and rear seats and steering wheel, a great head-up display, power seats, a power liftgate and more.
On the safety front, it has forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and rear seat alert.
The Outlander drives great, was surprisingly quiet, and even had enough power for me, which I was concerned about. Fuel economy is 26 combined when running on just gasoline, but when combined with the hybrid system it is rated at 64-MPGe.
MSRP was also a surprise at $50,880 completely loaded, and that is actually a fantastic value for an attractive plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drive SUV. It also comes with a 10-year, 100,000 mile power train warranty and that includes the hybrid system and battery.
I have to be honest, I’ve not been a huge Mitsubishi fan in the past, but they’ve always had good quality and durability. This 2023 Outlander PHEV may well be a game changer for Mitsubishi and I have to say, this SUV is extremely easy to love.
If you are in the market for a 3-row SUV suitable for adults, this isn’t it, but if five seats for grownups is enough, this should be on your shopping list for sure.
2023 Outlander PHEV in a few words: Just an outstanding plug-in, almost luxury SUV you'll love if you drive it.