2025 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV SUV : STUNNING, BUT CAN IT COMPETE?

Introduction

Things are not easy for 2025 Outlander PHEV as it has fierce competition from Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia and many more. But to counter Mitsubishi has doubled down on refinement, has got some edge in all-electric range, and has a sculpted figure to keep the Outlander PHEV relevant.

So, how does the 2025 model compare to last year’s version? And is it a capable alternative to other hybrid SUVs? Let’s take a closer look.

What’s New for 2025?

For 2025, Mitsubishi has focused on refining rather than reinventing the Outlander PHEV. Key updates include:

Minor software updates for improved Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system performance. Enhanced driver assistance technology, with better lane-centering. A third row though a bit smaller, it is one of the few plug-in hybrid options that offer third row seating and some more, we will discuss some of them later in the article.

While that’s not a complete overhaul, these refinements ensure the Outlander PHEV stays competitive in a rapidly evolving segment.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Photo Credit: Mitsubishi

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Powertrain and Performance

The 2025 Outlander Plug-In Hybrid retains its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with dual electric motors—one at the front, one at the rear for all-wheel drive.

•             Total system output: 248 horsepower, 332 lb-ft of torque

•             All-electric range: Up to 38 miles (EPA-estimated)

•             Fuel economy (hybrid mode): Around 64 MPGe combined

•             Battery capacity: 20 kWh lithium-ion pack

Outlander PHEV can drive on pure EV mode for short commutes. Compared to the 2024 model, power figures are remain unchanged, but Mitsubishi has worked on refining power delivery and energy management for smoother transitions between gas and electric modes.

2025-mitsubishi-outlander-phev-interior-seating
2025-mitsubishi-outlander-phev-interior-seating, Photo Credit: Mitsubishi

How 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Stacks Up Against Rivals

Compared to its closest competitors, the Toyota RAV4 Prime and Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid, the Outlander PHEV finds itself in a unique position. Below is a small peek into the feature of its rivals.

ModelTotal HorsepowerElectric RangeMPGeSeating CapacityAWD
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV248 hp38 miles64 MPGe7 (optional)Standard
2025 Toyota RAV4 Prime302 hp42 miles94 MPGe5Standard
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV261 hp30 miles76 MPGe5Standard

Lets take a closer look, The RAV4 Prime is faster and has a longer EV range, but it lacks third-row seating. The Santa Fe PHEV offers slightly more power, but its range falls short. If you need a three-row plug-in hybrid, the Outlander PHEV is still one of the few choices available.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV : Interior

More Premium Than You’d Expect from Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi has been working hard to shake off its budget-car reputation, with the interior of the  Outlander PHEV’s, The cabin in general is spacious, quiet, and surprisingly upscale particularly on the upper trims.

•             7-inch digital driver’s display on base models

•             12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on SEL and above

•             9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

•             Available semi-aniline leather upholstery

•             Heated front and rear seats on Limited and SEL trims

One of the biggest selling points of the Outlander PHEV is its three-row seating, which is rare in the plug-in hybrid segment. However, the third row is still best suited for kids, as legroom is tight.

2025 Outlander new interior from side
2025 Outlander new interior from side, Photo Credit: Mitsubishi

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV : Cargo Capacity

The cargo space behind the third row is modest, though folding down the seats creates a spacious 79.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

Technology and Safety

Mitsubishi has packed the Outlander PHEV with advanced safety and convenience features.

Standard safety features across all trims include blind spot warning with lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure prevention and some more.

Higher trims get MI-PILOT Assist, which integrates adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. Mitsubishi has also added a 360-degree camera system and improved parking assist features for 2025.

For more information about the Safety features & crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Photo Credit: Mitsubishi

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV : Charging

Charging is a crucial part of any PHEV experience, and the 2025 Outlander PHEV keeps things simple.

•             Level 1 (Standard 120V): Around 12 to 14 hours for a full charge

•             Level 2 (240V Home Charger): Around 6.5 hours

•             DC Fast Charging: Around 80% charge in 38 minutes

Unlike most plug-in hybrids, the Outlander still offers DC fast charging, which is rare in this segment. While most owners will rely on Level 2 home charging, having the fast-charge option is great but there is a slight problem with it, the fast charging system uses CHAdeMO charging port that are not so easy to find at fast charging stations these days.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Trims and Pricing

Mitsubishi keeps the lineup straightforward with four trims.

TrimEstimated Starting Price (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling, tax)Key Features
ES$40,445cloth seats, 18-inch alloy wheels, Automatic headlights, 12.3-inch digital instrument display, Rearview camera, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Wireless smartphone compatibility, Six-speaker audio system
SE$43,095heated front seats, Rain-sensing windshield wipers, Hands-free liftgate, Heated, power-folding side mirrors, silver bumper detailing, 20-inch two-tone wheels, Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, 9-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation, Wireless charging pad
SEL$46,395Silver roof rails, Auto-dimming rearview mirror, Tri-zone automatic climate control, Panoramic sunroof, Leather-trimmed interior, Eight-way adjustable front passenger seat
SEL – Black Edition$48,895dark external detailing, including dark trim around the windows and black wheels, dynamic shield, and roof rails. Mitsubishi’s top trim features a swish interior decked out in black semi-aniline leather. The front seats gain a massage function

Compared to the 2024 model, expect a small price increase, primarily due to upgraded tech features and inflation adjustments.

Verdict: A Solid, If Not Perfect, PHEV Option

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is not as powerful as the RAV4 Prime or as refined as some luxury hybrids, but it manages to strike a balance in the middle with some competitive features and its looks which can be deciding factor for many customers, its looks alone can make them ignore slight advantages of its customers.


Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most accurate, latest updates or specific model configurations. Always consult official website/sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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