#Hassan. Posted October 7, 2021 Share Posted October 7, 2021 Even restyled, the Outlander is not the most attractive in its segment. But, with its hybrid-rechargeable technology, it is surely the smartest. It only takes a try to get used to it: once you get home, it's no longer a matter of entering the house after wiping your feet! Before hanging up his coat, the driver of an Outlander PHEV will have taken care to connect his Mitsubishi to a domestic outlet . This short operation which, when it rains, can make those who do not have a garage moan, will make them smile the next day, when the big 4.70-meter SUV will start silently, without consuming the slightest drop of fuel. The Outlander has been capable of this feat since 2014, when it adopted the PHEV badge. It has also become the best-selling plug-in hybrid car in Europe , with more than 100,000 units sold. But, since its discreet restyling, which focuses on the grille, shields and optics, the Japanese have also modified its components, to afford greater autonomy. Thus, after less than six hours of charging on a conventional 230 V / 10 A socket, the Japanese vessel can travel 40 kilometers in 100% electric mode , without even leading to economy. This increase is due to the lithium-ion battery, whose capacity has increased from 12 to 13.8 kWh. It powers each electric motor, including one of 60 kW and 137 Nm to drive the front axle, and one now developing 70 kW and 195 Nm for the rear axle. With these new elements, the Outlander can even go on expressways in electric mode; it accelerates well and reaches 135 km / h. Once the batteries are empty, no breakdown or panic : the new thermal engine, increased from 2.0 to 2.4 liters, takes over without being noticed. With its 135 hp and 211 Nm of torque, it can directly (and very quietly) drive the front wheels, and turn into a generator, so as to maintain a sufficient charge level for the battery. While all of this may seem very complicated, the driver of the Outlander has nothing to deal with, however, just to savor. The sport ? No. Pleasure and comfort above all Economical in use, this SUV is not intended to offer sensations. Its performance is very convincing, thanks to a cumulative power of 230 hp, and its different driving modes are managed automatically, and imperceptibly, when not taken care of. However, the machine flirts with the two tons once a couple travels on board, and its suspension, soft enough to offer a pleasant comfort, struggles to contain the movements of the body . Its steering also lacks consistency but, for classic use, which perfectly corresponds to the idea we have of a hybrid car, the Outlander PHEV is very pleasant. And its all-wheel drive, whose distribution varies according to the conditions and / or the desires of the driver, generates a safe and healthy behavior. On board, well-being is the key word. Despite regrettable small details, such as a few poorly camouflaged screws, the level of finish is flattering and nothing is missing from the endowment of our test model, at the top of the Instyle range. Nothing, or almost nothing, since no GPS is offered ; it is necessary to rely on the guidance of a connected smartphone, the map of which can appear on the touch screen of the central console. The habitability ratings are stagnant but there is no shortage of space on board. However, no 7-seater variation is offered. On the other hand, we appreciate some welcome tips, such as the two 230 V outlets accessible from the rear seats and the boot, which deliver 1,500 W. The Outlander can be parked for free ... But the Outlander hides other advantages, invisible to the naked eye: like any other plug-in hybrid car, it benefits from favorable registration fees and attractive parking conditions. Thus, with the recent green disc, it can be parked free of charge for two hours in 31 French agglomerations which normally pay a fee, and can even remain parked “free” for six hours in Paris . In short, even stationary, this Outlander saves money! Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV test: the verdict If it was badged Volkswagen or Audi, this big SUV would sell like hot cakes. Instead, he has a quiet career in France. Still, this Mitsubishi Outlander is definitely worth a visit. We like Electric autonomy Comfort and quiet operation Roominess and equipment Ease of use We like less No GPS Cash movements No 7-seater version link:https://www.auto-moto.com/essais/mitsubishi-outlander-phev-restyle-courant-201415.html#item=1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Premium
Recommended Posts