IT SEEMS LIKE ONLY A FEW months since the new Outlander was released by Mitsubishi, but in the motor industry, as on life, time flies, explaining why Mitsubishi has released a locally tuned and refreshed model of the PHEV.
“Our locally tuned and refreshed Outlander model range continues to resonate with Australian customers, and we’re confident this next PHEV variant will be no exception,” MMAL GM of Product Strategy, Bruce Hampel said.
“The updated Outlander PHEV offers the best of both worlds; it’s more powerful than ever before, whilst simultaneously improving efficiency and pure EV range through Mitsubishi’s latest generation PHEV powertrain.
“A sophisticated new aesthetic, refined interior, substantially improved NVH and Australian-tuned dynamics continue to shape Outlander’s reputation as a value-driven, capable and popular medium SUV. For the Outlander PHEV we also offer an eight-year, 160,000km drive battery warranty on top of Australia’s first 10-year vehicle warranty program, with 10 years’ capped price servicing and 10 years’ roadside assistance,” he said.
Updated Outlander PHEV Recommended Retail Pricing
| Grade | Price (plus on road costs) |
| Outlander PHEV AWD ES (5 seat) | $58,990 |
| Outlander PHEV AWD ASPIRE (7 seat) | $66,790 |
| Outlander PHEV AWD EXCEED (5 seat) | $71,640 |
| Outlander PHEV AWD EXCEED TOURER (5 seat) | $74,490 |
Increased battery capacity and refined powertrain
At the heart of the Outlander PHEV is its refined powertrain, offering a smoother, more responsive drive and its longest pure EV range yet.
Featuring a latest-generation 22.7kWh lithium-ion battery pack and two high-power electric motors, the updated Outlander PHEV range now offers a WLTP-tested EV range of 86 kilometres. Tested to NEDC standards, EV range is listed as 103 kilometres – up from the previous model’s 84 kilometres.
The powertrain is further bolstered by an efficient 2.4-litre petrol engine, which can intelligently act as a generator or supply power to the front wheels directly, while improving combined cycle fuel consumption from 1.5L/100km to 1.2L/100km (NEDC).
While offering increased range and efficiency, Outlander PHEV’s new drivetrain doesn’t compromise on power; combined system outputs of 221kW generate impressive acceleration performance.
Drive modes
The updated Outlander PHEV features four EV drive modes which are easily accessible via the centre console.
In the NORMAL mode (default on start-up), the drivetrain optimises electric and petrol-electric hybrid drive depending on the battery state of charge and/or torque demand.
Opting for the dedicated EV priority mode offers a pure EV driving experience (while battery state of charge allows), even when the accelerator is firmly pressed to its maximum level, as long as charge is available.
The SAVE mode works to retain the current amount of electric range, while the CHARGE mode engages the on-board generator to charge the drive battery and store it in the battery for later deployment.
There are six adjustable regeneration levels, capable of being set by the driver, with the second level acting as default in NORMAL mode.
Pulling the left-side, steering-wheel mounted ‘gear’ paddle engages the third level of regeneration; the fourth and fifth are deployed with additional left-paddle pulls, while a reduced regeneration rate is realised by pulling on the right paddle.
Maximum energy regeneration is now realised by the new ‘Innovative Pedal Operation’ mode, accessed via a centre console button. This makes it possible to accelerate and decelerate just by controlling the accelerator pedal, so drivers can concentrate on steering the vehicle. This function also has the benefit of reducing the fatigue caused by switching pedals.
Ride and handling
The updated Outlander PHEV’s ride and handling were developed in conjunction with the ICE model range, considering Australia’s unique road conditions and buyer requirements. The result is refined suspension and steering systems with a deeply Australian connection.
Updates include recalibrated front and rear shock absorbers, and a smaller-diameter front anti-roll bar to suit. EPS mapping has also been adjusted to improve on-centre feel and linear turning response.
A new steel bonnet and front fenders go the extra mile to improve cabin noise insulation, alongside new summer specific Bridgestone tyres to enhance on-road performance and refinement.
These meaningful improvements were tried and tested on Australian soil to deliver Outlander’s smoothest ride yet, in tandem with its newly refined PHEV powertrain.
Exterior changes
The updated Outlander PHEV boasts several exterior aesthetic enhancements over the outgoing PHEV nameplate range, in line with the distinctive styling of the 2025 ICE model range.
Both front and rear sections have been updated with particular attention paid to the bumper sections and lower garnish, creating a modern look while improving aerodynamics.
Lighting has also been upgraded with the rear combination lamps featuring a ‘smoke’ clear outer lens and a ‘black tone’ inner. Rear turn lamps and reverse lamps are now LED.
The side profile benefits from updated wheel designs, measuring 18 inches diameter on ES models, with a sophisticated 20-inch design fitted to ASPIRE, EXCEED and EXCEED TOURER.
Exterior colour options – ES, ASPIRE, EXCEED
- White (Solid)
- Cosmic Blue (pearlescent)
- Sterling Silver (metallic)
- Graphite Grey (metallic)
- White Diamond (prestige)
- Red Diamond (prestige)
- Black Diamond (prestige)
Additional exterior colour option – ASPIRE and EXCEED
- Moonstone Grey (prestige)
Exterior colour options – EXCEED TOURER
- White Diamond / Black Mica roof
- Moonstone Grey / Black Mica roof
- Graphite Grey / Black Mica roof
- Black Diamond / Sterling Silver roof
Interior changes
The interior has been redesigned not just in form but in function.
An updated centre console repositions the cup holders for improved ergonomics while central armrest storage has improved by 45 percent.
In the second row, new padding improves support and the seat back itself has been lengthened for additional comfort.
EXCEED models and above receive front-row seat ventilation for the first time in the Outlander PHEV lineup. ASPIRE and up feature first-row seat heating and steering wheel heating, with EXCEED TOURER adding heating for outer second-row occupants.
Higher quality materials are used throughout, the ornate interior stitching being a particular highlight. All interior lighting is now touch-capacitive LED.
Interior trim options
- Black Cloth (ES)
- Black Granlux artificial leather (ASPIRE)
- Black or Grey Leather (EXCEED)
- Brick Brown Premium Semi-Aniline Leather (EXCEED TOURER)
| Grade | Seat trim |
| ES | Black fabric |
| ASPIRE | Black Microsuede/Synthetic Granlux |
| EXCEED | Black or light grey quilted leather-appointed |
| EXCEED TOURER | Brick Brown semi-aniline high-grade leather |
Yamaha: Bringing Dynamic Sound to the automotive industry
The updated Outlander PHEV range features the renowned Dynamic Sound Yamaha systems that were debuted in the ICE variant.
The improved sound isolation of the vehicle further enhances Yamaha’s signature sound, with engineers from both sides working in unison to create a unique aural experience.
Two systems are available: Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium and Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate in the showcase EXCEED TOURER.
Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium deploys eight speakers and delivers a rich, cinematic experience thanks to meticulous design integration with the cabin.
Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate utilises a sub-woofer, dual amplifiers and Yamaha’s Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with Finite Impulse Response, delivering 1,650 watts of power for an even greater immersive experience.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: Model range confirmed
The model lineup begins with the familiar ES grade, with specification highlights including:
- 12.3-inch smartphone-link display audio and navigation system
- 8-speaker Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium
- All new drive battery with increased 22.7kWh capacity
- Black cloth upholstery
- Climate Control Engine Start System
- Connected Car Service (CCS)
- Driver Monitor System
- Electrochromatic frameless rear-view mirror
- FCM Haptic Brake Warning
- Improved Blind Spot intervention and Lane Departure Prevention systems
- Improved drive battery cooling system
- LED interior lighting
- LED rear turn and backup lamps
- Multi-around view monitor – Bird’s eye view
- New front and rear bumpers
- Newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels
- Rear automatic braking linked with rear-view camera
- Steel bonnet and front fenders for improved NVH
- Traffic Sign Recognition with ACC Speed Limit Link
- Wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto
Moving up to the ASPIRE grade brings additional equipment, including:
- 5+2 seating
- Slide and recline manual seat adjuster
- ‘Walk-in’ system
- Black Granlux/PVC upholstery
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Improved wireless phone charger design
- Mi-pilot additional features including:
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
- Touch sensor steering vibration
- Traffic Jam Assist (TJA)
- Newly designed 20-inch alloy wheels
The EXCEED grade features a five-seat layout, plus the below highlights above ASPIRE:
- Aluminium accelerator and brake pedal design
- Choice of black or grey leather upholstery
- Frameless interior rear-view mirror with digital monitor
- Ventilated driver and front passenger seats
The flagship EXCEED TOURER grade adds premium features including:
- 12-speaker Dynamic Sound YAMAHA Ultimate Audio System
- Brick Brown semi-aniline premium leather upholstery
- Massage function for driver and front passenger
- Heated 2nd row passenger seats
Market-leading Mitsubishi aftersales support, with 10/10/10 Diamond Advantage
Mitsubishi Outlanders are covered by Mitsubishi’s new market-leading 10/10/10 Diamond Advantage warranty program.
This comprises a 10-year/200,000-kilometre manufacturer’s warranty, with 10-year Capped Price Servicing and 10-year Roadside Assistance.