Since it was founded in 1870, the Mitsubishi Group has always operated as a ‘go-it-alone’ entity.
Disbanded during the occupation of Japan after World War 2, constituent companies nevertheless continued to share the Mitsubishi brand and trademark.
That determination still holds true today with Mitsubishi pulling out of a looming merger with Japanese carmakers Honda and Nissan to go it alone.
Tokyo-based Mitsubishi has decided to exist outside of a merger that was expected to be finalised mid-2026, despite earlier indications that it was strongly considering joining the partnership.
Mitsubishi might still co-operate with Nissan and Honda, but it is likely to retain its independent listing status, rather than become a part of the joint force.
Mitsubishi projects revenue to reach US $18 billion this year, with production expected to top 694,000 vehicles by 2029.
And standing high – and alone – in a fiercely competitive SUV EV market is the next generation Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV “which goes green, goes bush, and keeps on going,” says the Mitsubishi Aussie test team.
Mitsubishi has been in the plug-in hybrid game in Australia for a long time. In fact, it launched its first PHEV locally in 2014.
With greater battery capacity (20 kWh) and a larger fuel tank (56 litres), the Outlander introduces a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, twin electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. The two electric motors deliver incredible amounts of torque for fast acceleration.
The ‘plug-in’ can fast charge with a standard type 2 AC, or connector at charging stations giving 89% capacity in as little as 38 minutes, or you can re-charge as you drive with regenerative braking. Plugging into any standard power point will give about 9.5 hours, or 6.5 hours using a home or public charging device.
The two electric motors deliver incredible amounts of torque for fast acceleration.
This next-generation battery technology and electric motor deliver up to 54% more electric range so you can go even further with zero tailpipe emissions. Also, you can use hybrid petrol power for longer road trips giving remarkable fuel efficiency.
With a class-leading 84-km all-electric range, plus the long-range reassurance of a hybrid petrol engine, you’ve got all bases covered. You can do it. So, stop worrying about EVs and the fear that that you might run out of puff somewhere near the Black Stump.
Inside the furniture includes leather seats with a smart two-tone black and saddle tan finish. Both front seats have an amazing amount of electric adjustment, as well as memory. Both are heated for those cooler months ahead.
All the buttons on the steering wheel have a tactile click or push action and are logically placed. Behind the steering wheel is a 12.3 in. digital instrument cluster that offers high-resolution and plenty of configuration options. The digital instrument cluster has two main screen layouts.
The Outlander has a powered tailgate with a hands-free kick function, helpful if you’re juggling groceries or luggage.
At a glance: Outlander offers five seats, 2.4L multipoint injection petrol engine, plug-in hybrid EV powertrain, all-wheel control, seven drive modes, 12.3 in. digital driver display and MiTEC safety technology
At $56,490 before on-road costs, the entry-level Outlander PHEV ES is about the same price as a top-spec RAV4 Hybrid.
Mitsubishi says it’s here for the long run, offering Australia’s first 10-year new car warranty with 10 years capped price servicing.
Alone, but not afraid.
