The success of Outlander leads to the new generation for the 2021 season. However, Mitsubishi has further plans, for this crossover and the rest of the lineup. Larger SUVs are definitely what buyers want to see. But, the focus is on the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV edition, greener, more powerful, and efficient. In the near future, the vehicle will also get an all-electric version as well.
Details about the upcoming new generation are not unveiled yet. Bosses only confirmed the fourth series of the only crossover SUV available in the US market. Outside North America, Mitsubishi is working on the same move for Pajero/Montero SUV. The Outlander is going to be new for 2021, and the same styling and trim levels will be carried over for the following season.
The only change we can expect on the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander is an upgraded plug-in hybrid drivetrain. For the last couple of years, the carmaker was well known for it. As the greenest system, it is just a step before the complete electrification. However, the PHEV configuration is also becoming more efficient.
2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Powertrains
The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander will keep the same drivetrain lineup from its predecessor, we are pretty sure about that. A 2.4-liter four-pot engine is perfect for the compact crossover. Well, there is also a V6 if buyers want to bring the power on. The base unit is there for the more fuel-friendly drive. A four-cylinder mill returns 25/30 mpg at this moment, and the next-gen crossover will be lighter, improving the overall mileage. Front-wheel drive is standard and the unit is good for 166 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque. This is slightly under the average for such a vehicle. For example, class-leading Honda CR-V makes 190 ponies, but uses a turbocharged engine; Ford Escape is at 180 hp, while Toyota Rav4 goes over 200.
So, if you need extra power, you will probably go after a V6. It is available only with the Outlander GT package. A 3.0-liter displacement is not too big for the compact class. Also, 225 ponies are not extravagancy. On the other hand, it will make the ride more attractive. All-wheel drive is standard with this powerplant and the fuel consumption jumps to 23 mpg combined. A six-speed automatic gearbox comes with paddle shifters.
Plug-in Hybrid and EV
The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is coming back, that is for sure. The compact crossover is going to be enhanced and the system is already known as one of the cleanest in the market. On the other hand, you are not getting extra power, such as the new Rav4 Prime is going to do with 300 hp. Mitsubishi is turning to green reports and fuel economy. On the other hand, the current output of 190 hp is more than enough for most requirements and the new version might make it over 200 ponies. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine will be the center of the setup again and the combined fuel economy will be closer to 30 mpg. The PHEV system also allows drivers to use electric batteries only. Outlander will cover 30 miles before the next recharge, which will take about 8 hours for 0-100 percent.
2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Outlander is one of the rare compact crossovers with a three-row configuration. It is a bit tight, but there is room for seven seats. If you choose PHEV, this option is not available. Also, the Outlander Sport is a five-seater only. But, this is a totally different vehicle. A subcompact crossover shares the name with its famous sibling. A 2.4-liter engine is available for the GT model, while the base setup includes a 145 hp rated 2.0-liter unit. It is also smaller, more efficient, and agile crossover, perfect for urban cruising.
Release Date and Prices
The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander will be here somewhere in 2021. The new generation of the compact crossover is confirmed (source CarBuzz), but any details about the redesign haven’t leaked yet. So, we are waiting eagerly for the fourth-gen Outlander. The company will leave a few updates for the following season. That will include the PHEV configuration and probably the GT version, or some other performance-oriented model.
Another good thing about the crossover was its price. The current edition starts at $23,600 when you are buying the ES package. All-wheel drive will cost you $1,500 and top of the class model with a four-cylinder engine is SE. The GT will be closer to $30,000 and the plug-in hybrid will still be the most expensive offer in the lineup, with the price tag above $35,000. It is still cheaper than Toyota Rav4 Prime. Another Japanese PHEV crossover will cost above $40,000 and we expect the same move and the same price from Ford and its Escape.
