When we tested the non-hybridized Mitsubishi Outlander last fall, we walked away impressed. Mitsubishi had seemingly come back from the dead with a legitimately interesting option that was reasonably priced and packed with features and luxurious appointments. Just a few months later, Mitsubishi sent us the one it really wanted us to test: the plug-in hybrid version. While it seems Mitsubishi would be one of the last to jump into the electric pool, its efforts have paid off. This is the better car — if you’re willing to pay for it.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Price and value 

Since our last test, we thought the Outlander represented a good value. But now that the plug-in hybrid version crests the $50,000 mark, you’ll need to decide — is the extra dough worth it for a power bump and savings at the pump? The MSRP range for the all-wheel drive PHEV models is $39,845-$49,995. It is available in four trim levels and comes with a suite of standard features that includes dual-zone automatic climate control, blind spot warning, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some of the major differences in trim levels are noted below. 

  • ES S-AWC: $39,845

12.3-inch digital driver display

120V/240V charging capability

18-inch alloy wheels

  • SE S-AWC: $42,145 

8-way adjustable power driver seat

9.0-inch navigation system with smartphone link

Body-color rear spoiler with LED stop light

  • SEL S-AWC: $45,445

3-zone automatic climate control

8-way power adjustable driver seat with memory

DC fast charging capability

  • 40th Anniversary S-AWC: $49,995 

Semi-aniline leather seating surfaces

BOSE premium sound system 

Driver and passenger massage seats

Our SEL S-AWC PHEV tester was fully loaded and came with the Premium Package. This included luxury features like a 10.8-inch head-up display, semi-aniline leather seating surfaces, a Bose premium sound system, a power panoramic sunroof, driver and passenger massage functionality, a heated steering wheel and more. All that brought the total price to $50,880.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Regardless of which trim you choose, you’ll be treated to one of the best warranties in the business. Mitsubishi offers a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion and perforation warranty and a 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance program.

Performance 

The Outlander’s performance is vastly improved because of the hybrid battery. It feels powerful and confident in its get-up-and-go. While you won’t be setting any records, the powertrain is an appropriate match for its heft.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Engine 

Are you sitting down? The Outlander PHEV has three motors. Three! There’s a main gas engine and two electric motors, one in front and the other in the rear. The 2.5-liter gas engine produces 132 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque. That’s not much, but combined with the electric motors, the Outlander makes 248 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The electric assist is especially present in the lower rpms. Should you mash the throttle, the 4-cylinder buzzes with all the fury of a smoked-out beehive. 

Fuel efficiency and battery range 

When the Outlander’s battery is charged to capacity, it has 38 miles of range — better than some of the competition. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates a combined 64 mpge, 26 mpg for gasoline only. Based on these estimates, you’ll save $1,500 in fuel costs over five years compared to the average new vehicle. 

Drivetrain 

There’s a decent amount of torque being thrown around in this SUV, and the drivetrain does a good job at keeping the power in control. To aid with fuel economy, the Outlander is fitted with a 1-speed transmission. In other words, a continuously variable transmission. It does a nice job of keeping the electric boost going throughout the lower part of the rev band.

There are several drive modes, traction options and powertrain settings. Drive modes include Normal, Eco and Power. Traction options include Tarmac, Gravel, Snow and Mud. Powertrain settings include Hybrid, EV, Save and Charge.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Acceleration and handling 

The arrival of battery power is most welcome in the Outlander. In Motor Trend’s testing, the PHEV was 2.1 seconds quicker to 60 mpg than the standard SUV. Dynamically, the Outlander can be a bit wallowy through turns and bumps but feels direct enough to get you in the direction you want to go. 

Braking 

The Outlander’s braking lives and dies through its one-pedal driving, aka regenerative braking. This braking helps recharge the battery when not accelerating. We found it worked well and we got used to its operation fairly quickly.

Interior comfort and convenience 

Take one look inside the Outlander’s interior and it will be clear the manufacturer has left its economy car roots behind. Quilted leather, contrast stitching, metal and other nice materials are all present. The Outlander offers a lot of features appropriate for the $50,000 price tag. The interior is comfortable for four or five adults, but the third row is useless. 

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Seats 

If we had a gripe about the new Outlander, it would be its claims to be a seven-seater. It’s not. The third row is the smallest we’ve ever seen, difficult to access and virtually impossible for anyone to enjoy. Even small children will be uncomfortable and cramped. It also mostly obscures the view out the rear window and deletes nearly all the cargo space.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Third row qualms aside, all other seats are comfortable and roomy. We especially appreciated the extra bolstering in the front captain’s chairs. Second-row occupants will find plenty of legroom and space to spread out and relax. 

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Cargo space and cabin storage 

If you leave the third row folded down, you’ll have plenty of space for all your grocery runs and soccer game gear. Cabin storage is about on par with the competition, offering all the basic nooks, crannies and pockets you would expect for an SUV this size.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Infotainment system and other features

Wireless Apple CarPlay is always appreciated, as it was here. The 9-inch infotainment display was clear and glossy and an obvious grab from the Nissan parts bin. The panoramic moonroof, tri-zone climate control, rear sunshades and heated steering wheel were all nice to have.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Exterior appearance and functionality 

The 2023 Outlander is clearly influenced by other successful crossovers but is unique enough to stand on its own. Our tester was finished in White Diamond paint; it’s also available in Alloy Silver, Mercury Gray and Red Diamond.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Towing capacity 

When properly equipped, the Outlander PHEV can tow up to 1,500 pounds. 

Wheels

Off-roading is questionable. You wouldn’t want to pop a tire or damage one of the 20-inch wheels that come with the SEL S-AWC Premium trim — a feature that belies its six different drive modes.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Cameras and side mirrors 

One of the main mantras for the Outlander is safety, and that’s evident in the cameras. Mitsubishi’s multiview camera system shows several angles from the outside and makes parking in tight spaces an easy feat. If only the view out the rear were clear with the third row up. 

Safety 

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander is a safe SUV. It’s loaded with technology and earns some high safety ratings. Just some of the features include:

  • Adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go
  • Lane keep assist
  • Lane departure prevention
  • Traffic sign recognition 
  • Blind spot warning
  • Rear automatic emergency braking
2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Awards and ratings 

The new Mitsubishi Outlander has received several awards. The 2023 model had not been tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as of this writing. However, the non-PHEV 2022 Outlander was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with all Good scores in the crash test categories. Other awards include:

  • Crossover Utility Of The Year by the Hispanic Motor Press Association
  • Vehicle Of The Year by Victory & Reseda magazine
  • Wards 10 Best Interiors Winner
2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC test drive review

Final impression 

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL S-AWC is a solid entry into the plug-in hybrid crossover segment. The battery provides the extra oomph we craved in the non-hybrid Outlander. Its robust warranty and luxurious interior only sweeten the deal. It is pricey, though. In general, the 2023 Outlander marks a huge upgrade for Mitsubishi as a brand and we can’t wait to see what they do next.

Interested in the new Mitsubishi Outlander? Find it on KSL Cars

FAQs 

Is the 2023 Outlander PHEV good for families? 

It depends. If your family is smaller and you don’t need a third row, you’ll have plenty of space for two or three kids and all their gear in the back. However if you need a third row, you’re probably better off looking at other options. 

Is the plug-in hybrid version of the Outlander worth it? 

Maybe. The internal combustion model we tested a few months ago was similarly equipped and got decent gas mileage — all for about $13,000 less than our PHEV model. On the other hand, the battery makes the otherwise wheezy powertrain much more enjoyable to exercise.

KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.