Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi has taken the wraps off of its 2019 Outlander PHEV at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The SUV, which has been Europe's best selling plug-in hybrid car since 2015, promises to be more efficient, more powerful, and prettier this time around, thanks to the significant tweaks to the powertrain and styling.
Starting under the hood, the 2019 Outlander PHEV model now relies on a 2.4-liter, Atkinson-cycle gas engine which has a better combustion and fuel efficiency instead of the previous 2.0-liter Otto cycle unit. The new Outlander PHEV comes equipped with a next-generation plug-in powertrain as well.
Detailed specifications, according to Car Scoops, are not available at the moment although Mitsubishi confirmed it now boasts a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. This is 1.8 kWh larger than what was used in the predecessor which is equivalent to a 15 percent boost in capacity and 10 percent up in the output. The electric motor is receiving a 10 percent increase in output as well.
Style-wise, there are not many changes outside, save for a larger rear spoiler, new 18-inch alloy wheel design, and a more substantial front grille. Inside, however, there are now two additional drive mode switches: the Sport and Snow modes. The former offers a "greater driving enjoyment on winding roads" while the latter helps drivers facing slippery conditions. These two join the Normal and 4WD Lock modes retained in the model.
Other new features include quilted leather, hip-hugging seats, a new instrument panel, and revised switchgear and trims.
The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will be released in Europe early this fall, but there is no word yet on its arrival in the United States. Pricing details have not been announced either, although it may be available on the same ballpark as the outgoing Outlander PHEV model which is available from £34,805.
