Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GN0W)

Mitsubishi Motors used to be the rising star of the automotive industry because of its blockbuster hits such as the Pajero and the Lancer Evolution. Now, it became a struggling Japanese carmaker that couldn't keep up with the challenges of the new normal despite the fact that it's part of the alliance with Renault and Nissan. As the Japanese carmaker is on the brink of becoming the one that time forgot, they've recently launched the all-new Outlander PHEV crossover, a game-changer that promises to turn Mitsubishi's fortunes around as it seeks through the brave new challenges it will come across.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Starting at 4,621,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Outlander PHEV promises to wake the company up from its deep slumber with its game-changing PHEV powertrain, strong design, a fully functional interior, and dynamics honed from Mitsubishi's greatest hits. Although it's hard to question this latest regeneration, there is so much to talk about it but for now, let's be quick about the new model.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Beginning with the design, the new Outlander borrows its styling cues from the Engleberg Tourer Concept, giving this new model a rather dramatic flair fit for a crossover that promises to tackle the new normal at ease while delivering a strong atmosphere lurking through its exterior design. Dramatic and strong the new exterior design is, the new Outlander is surprisingly bigger than its predecessor, posing a challenge to those who owned the previous Outlander PHEV.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV interior

Thanks to its added size, the new interior is roomier and more functional than before. Step into the driver's seat and thankfully, Mitsubishi went for the user-friendly route for the new model because common sense is what the new model's built for. 

Speaking of common sense, because of its larger dimensions, the new Outlander is slightly roomier than its predecessor, giving everyone plenty of reasons to get accommodated with it. The five-seater variant is fine but the seven-seater variant is also fine as well as long as you don't want Mom and Dad telling you to sit in the third-row seats while the rest of the second-row seats are fully occupied with child seats. There goes its sweet spot. Because the second and third-row seats are foldable, you can turn it into an express van if you're trying to deliver heavy cargo or a nice little sleeper while in the woods.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Outlander PHEV's powertrain remains the same 4B12 2.4L petrol engine from its previous model but the two electric motors connected to it are now more powerful than before. Combined with the Li-ion battery and the CVT gearbox, the new model delivers 16.6km/L of fuel economy as well as 87km of EV range based on WLTC Mode standards.

In terms of dynamics, the new Outlander PHEV drives better than before because of its CMF platform derived from the alliance, allowing this crossover to behave with a European feel. Coupled with the rear multilink suspension, front MacPherson struts, and a Rack and Pinion Electric Power Steering, it feels as civilized as a good honest senior citizen who cares about everybody more than himself.

Being a 4WD crossover, the Outlander PHEV offers various driving modes that can be selected at the turn of the dial. You can even engage Gravel, Snow, and Mud modes as well if you are in the mood for offroading or a weekend at Hannibal's. Although it doesn't mimic the capabilities of the late Pajero, it's still good to drive even on the dirtiest roads. After all, it's all about quality time with you and the road ahead.

As for safety, the new Outlander PHEV comes with an improved MI-PILOT single-lane driver assistance tech which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist to keep it centered while driving through Tokyo highways like a commoner. It even reads speed limit signs as well, which is a bit of a shock for those behind the wheel.

The Outlander PHEV may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive this year but in the interest of common sense, it's all about getting the job done from start to finish. So, is this the crossover that promises to turn around Mitsubishi's fortunes? Although it's too late to say it, there's still a chance for Mitsubishi to redeem itself with this new model. Who knows, with such a reputation the new model possesses before its launch, this could be the Japanese equivalent of the Hail Mary this company is looking for.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation