The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) has carved a significant niche in the automotive market, offering a blend of electric driving range and gasoline-powered flexibility. Choosing the right model year can be crucial to maximizing its benefits and minimizing potential issues. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you navigate the Outlander PHEV lineup, identifying the best years and those to approach with caution.
Understanding the nuances of different model years, including improvements in battery technology, safety features, and overall reliability, is essential for making an informed purchasing decision. Whether you're buying new or used, this expert guide will equip you with the knowledge to find the perfect Outlander PHEV to fit your needs and budget.
| Year | Key Highlights | Potential Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | First year in the US market; good entry point into PHEV technology | Limited electric range (22 miles), smaller battery (12 kWh), potential for early adopter issues. |
| 2019 | Minor updates, improved sound insulation | Same range and battery limitations as 2018. |
| 2020 | Significantly upgraded powertrain, larger battery (13.8 kWh), increased electric range (24 miles) | Infotainment system can be slow and outdated. |
| 2021 | Minor updates, primarily cosmetic | Carries over infotainment limitations from 2020. |
| 2022 | No significant changes from 2021 | Still uses the older infotainment system. Model year affected by supply chain issues. |
| 2023 | Completely redesigned model, larger battery (20 kWh), significantly increased electric range (38 miles), improved interior and technology, available third row seating | Higher price point compared to previous generations, potential for initial teething issues with the new platform. |
| 2024 | Minor updates to trim levels and features | Relatively new platform; long-term reliability data still emerging. |
Detailed Explanations
2018: The 2018 Outlander PHEV marked Mitsubishi's entry into the US plug-in hybrid market. It offered a decent starting point, combining a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 12 kWh battery. While it introduced the PHEV concept to Mitsubishi's lineup, its electric range was limited to approximately 22 miles, and the technology was relatively basic compared to later models.
2019: The 2019 model year brought only minor updates to the Outlander PHEV. These were primarily focused on improving sound insulation within the cabin. Unfortunately, it retained the same 22-mile electric range and 12 kWh battery as the 2018 model. Therefore, it offers little advantage over the inaugural year.
2020: The 2020 Outlander PHEV represented a significant step forward. The powertrain was upgraded, incorporating a larger 2.4-liter engine and a more powerful electric motor. Critically, the battery capacity increased to 13.8 kWh, boosting the electric range to around 24 miles. This model year is generally considered a worthwhile upgrade over the 2018 and 2019 versions due to these improvements.
2021: The 2021 Outlander PHEV received only minor cosmetic updates, primarily to the exterior styling. The powertrain and battery remained unchanged from the 2020 model. While offering slightly refreshed aesthetics, it didn't address the infotainment system's shortcomings, which remained a common complaint.
2022: The 2022 model year was largely a carryover from 2021, with no significant mechanical or technological changes. It continued to utilize the older infotainment system, which was considered outdated by this point. Furthermore, production of the 2022 model was affected by global supply chain issues, potentially leading to longer wait times or limited availability.
2023: The 2023 Outlander PHEV marked a complete redesign of the vehicle. It boasted a significantly larger 20 kWh battery pack, extending the electric range to an impressive 38 miles. The interior was also completely revamped, offering a more modern and refined driving experience. Additionally, the 2023 model introduced available third-row seating, expanding its appeal to larger families. This redesign represents a major leap in terms of technology, range, and overall refinement.
2024: The 2024 Outlander PHEV features minor updates to trim levels and available features. The core powertrain and battery remain the same as the 2023 model. While offering the latest technology and safety features, it's still a relatively new platform, and long-term reliability data is still being gathered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Outlander PHEV year has the longest electric range? The 2023 and 2024 models boast the longest electric range, offering approximately 38 miles on a full charge due to their larger 20 kWh battery pack.
Is the 2020 Outlander PHEV a good upgrade from the 2018 model? Yes, the 2020 model features a larger battery, improved powertrain, and slightly increased electric range, making it a worthwhile upgrade.
What are the main drawbacks of the pre-2023 Outlander PHEV models? The primary drawbacks include limited electric range, an outdated infotainment system, and a less refined interior compared to the redesigned 2023 model.
Does the 2023 Outlander PHEV have third-row seating? Yes, the 2023 Outlander PHEV offers available third-row seating, making it a more practical option for larger families.
Are there any known reliability issues with the 2023 or 2024 Outlander PHEV? As relatively new models, long-term reliability data is still emerging, but some owners have reported minor teething issues with the new platform.
What should I consider when buying a used Outlander PHEV? Consider the battery health, maintenance history, and overall condition of the vehicle, especially for older models with higher mileage. Also, be aware of the limited range of the pre-2023 models.
Is the 2024 model worth the extra cost compared to the 2023? The 2024 model offers minor updates, but the core features are the same as the 2023. If you can find a good deal on a 2023, it might be a more cost-effective option.
What is the battery capacity of the 2018 Outlander PHEV? The 2018 Outlander PHEV has a battery capacity of 12 kWh.
Which year is the best value for money? The 2020 model often represents a good balance of features and affordability on the used market, offering a noticeable improvement over earlier models without the premium price of the newer, redesigned versions.
Are there any significant differences in safety features across different years? While specific features may vary by trim level, the 2023 and 2024 models generally offer a more comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) due to their newer platform and technology.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV depends largely on your budget and needs. For those prioritizing electric range and modern features, the redesigned 2023 and 2024 models are the clear frontrunners, while the 2020 model offers a good balance of value and improved technology for budget-conscious buyers. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each model year carefully before making your decision.