Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GX5h: review

Plug-in hybrid SUV star is now better than ever
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GX5h: the top-selling model in the British EV and PHEV sector
Autocar|Sarah Bradley29 October 2015

The sales figures speak for themselves; Mitsubishi’s eco-SUV has been a big hit over its two-year career.

This plug-in petrol-electric hybrid is the top-selling model in the British EV and PHEV sector, accounting for half of all vehicles bought. The next most popular contender – Nissan’s Leaf – doesn’t come close.

That the Outlander PHEV is an SUV plays a major part in its success

Crossovers being the flavour of the moment, the fact that the Outlander PHEV is an SUV (the only one in this marketplace) plays a major part in this success. Lower emissions than its conventional, and similarly priced, diesel-engined stablemate – hence a lower tax rating – reflect well in the company car desirability charts.

And, of course, there’s that £5,000 Government grant so beloved of hybrid owners...

So, looking ahead to 2016, how could Mitsubishi improve upon what is already an extremely accomplished machine? Well, in a bid to make this latest version “more European”, it has – and then some.

It now looks more dynamic and purposeful than before

The styling of this latest, marginally longer incarnation has received some major revisions, and it now looks more dynamic and purposeful than before. Upgraded cabin trim feels classier and, yes, more “European”. Every model features cruise and climate control among the impressive standard kit.

And what of that hi-tech powertrain? The Outlander PHEV combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with two electric motors to great effect, and engineers have contrived to use its 200bhp to further boost off-the-line performance this time around.

The 0-62mph sprint takes 11.0 seconds, with power going to all four wheels through a CVT box. The system seamlessly moves automatically between electric and petrol power when required, and excess power is diverted to recharge the battery. It’s clever stuff.

With stronger, upgraded suspension, the ride, handling and steering impress too

With stronger, upgraded suspension, the ride, handling and steering impress too.

The Outlander PHEV is an electric hybrid delight. Go on – plug-in!

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GX5h

On sale: Now

Price: £35,999

Engine: 4cyl, 1998cc, petrol, plus 2x60kW electric motors

Power: 200bhp at 4500rpm

Torque: 248lb ft at 4500rpm

Kerbweight: 1845kg

Gearbox: CVT

0-62mph: 11.0sec

Top speed: 106mph

Economy: 156mpg (combined)

CO2/tax band: 42g/km, 5%

Top 10 economical SUVs

1/10

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