Mitsubishi Motors Corporation launched on Thursday a new version of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV featuring a more advanced plug-in hybrid system that gives this SUV a stronger EV flavor.
The 2019 Outlander PHEV is now on sale at Mitsubishi Motors dealerships throughout Japan. Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices range from ¥3,939,840 to ¥5,090,040 (€30,250 to €39,000), inclusive of consumption tax.
The major improvements introduced in the new version accentuate further the EV flavor that distinguishes this model and improvements to 90 percent of the major component parts of the PHEV system by newly developed drive battery, engine, increased rear motor and generator outputs. These improvements give further improvements in the smooth and powerful acceleration inherent to its electric motor drive, and in its quietness. In addition, the new Outlander PHEV model adds new SNOW and SPORT modes to its Twin Motor 4WD powertrain, making for a more reassuring and enjoyable driving experience.
Drive battery capacity has been increased from 12 kW/h to 13.8 kW/h. Rear motor and generator outputs have been increased by around 12 percent and 10 percent respectively. These improvements extend Outlander PHEV’s all-electric cruising range from 60.8 km (60.2 km for S Edition and G Premium Package) to 65.0 km, and also see further enhancement in powerful drive delivers.
Engine size is increased from 2.0L to 2.4L and high expansion ratio cycle (Atkinson combustion cycles) by change in cam profile and valve timing control allows high-efficiency power generation in the lower rev range. Also, the reduction in engine speed when in generating mode and optimization of generation output and, improvements to the air cleaner and main muffler reduces noise from the engine itself. The result is further enhancement in the feel-good driving experience that the electric drive delivers even when the engine starts and while running.
To cater more precisely to different road surfaces and vehicle operating status, SNOW and SPORT modes join the NORMAL and LOCK 4WD powertrain modes on the previous model.
– SNOW mode: Gives better stability and control over snow-covered and other slippery surfaces. LOCK mode has been tailored to cater more for poor road surfaces, giving higher levels of traction and more driver reassurance.
– SPORT mode: Gives the driver more direct control with improved throttle response and turning characteristics for greater enjoyment when sport driving on dry tarmac surfaces.
Body rigidity has been increased with the use of structural adhesive and by increasing the panel joint overlap area in the front and rear doors, as well as the luggage compartment opening and the wheel house/body panel joins (areas using structural adhesive increased on S Edition).
The use of larger front and rear dampers and a new type of damper valve gives improved ride quality as well as higher levels of handling and stability matching with smooth driving feel that the electric drive delivers (S Edition excluded). The use of a faster steering-gear ratio and optimization of the electric power steering control to match this gives better steering feel and quality and a more natural steering response.
Appearance quality is improved with use of full LED headlamps and design changes to the radiator grille, LED fog lamp bezel, front skid plate, rear skid plate and alloy wheel. In addition, an aero-enhancing rear spoiler adds to the model’s functionality and sportiness. Design changes to the ornament panels and hazard switch panel and functionality is improved with a new Power Display design which shows motor and engine outputs independently.
Interior quality is further improved with the use of diamond quilt-pattern genuine leather upholstery on front and rear seats and trim, and this is complemented by laser-etched ornament panels (S Edition, G Premium Package).
All models come under the “Sapo S Wide” safety classification – promoted by the Japanese government – as FCM front collision mitigation and UMS unintended acceleration mitigation systems (operates in both forward and reverse) are now fitted as standard for improved safety.
