The Outlander PHEV remains a key player in the electrified SUV market. The SUVhas been updated for the 2019MY with an emphasis on its oily bits, which should keep it relevant in the segment for a few more years until its successor arrives.
A number of improvements have made it more capable than before. There’s a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a modest 117 hp and 137 lb-ft (186 Nm) of torque. Throw the two electric motors into the equation, though, and total output increases to a much more respectable 190 horsepower.
The larger 22 kWh lithium-ion battery provides it with an electric range of 22-mile (35 km). Plug it into a household socket and the charging time becomes a painful process: up to 13 hours. Nevertheless, you could use the 240V charger to fill it in 3.5 hours, or wait only 25 minutes for an 80 percent charge with the standard fast charger.
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In terms of pricing, the 2019 Outlander PHEV has an MSRP of $35,795 in the SEL grade, which gets leather seats, 7-inch infotainment system with smartphone integration, Mitsubishi Remote Control compatibility, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist. The dual-zone climate control, smart key access with push-button start and others are also standard.
Getting the smarter safety items requires upgrading to the GT, which adds a 360-degree camera system, Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic High Beam, LED headlights and fog lamps, premium sound system, power glass sunroof and two AC outlets with 1500W power supply, for at least $41,495.
The functionality of the updated Outlander PHEV isn’t that good, but won’t disappoint either. Sure, there are some tricky controls, vibrations coming through the seat and steering wheel, and a bumpy ride, according to KBB’s review, but nothing extremely annoying. Which may, or may not, be your cup of tea. Or, more accurately, sake…