Mtsubishi: Hybrid SUV with all-wheel drive

Mitsubishi's Outlander has traditionally been one of the more robust SUVs. Now, the new model boasts modern drive technology.

As a plug-in hybrid, the Outlander rushes economically over the streets and through the terrain.

Mitsubishi is known for building durable, robust cars that stand out more for their solidity than for their extravagant looks or technological leadership. With the new Plug-in Hybrid Outlander, Mitsubishi has also achieved a real technological breakthrough: According to the company, this Outlander model is the first all-wheel-drive SUV with a plug-in hybrid drive. In the manufacturer's words, it sounds like this: "In an innovative way, the new Plug-in Hybrid Outlander combines the environmental friendliness of electric drives with the range and performance of conventional combustion engines, as well as the on- and off-road capabilities of an all-wheel-drive SUV."

The hybrid system of the new Outlander includes a 121 hp two-liter gasoline engine, two electric motors each producing 82 hp at the front and rear axles, a 70 kW generator, and a powerful lithium-ion drive battery safely mounted underfloor between the axles. The result should impress dynamic and environmentally conscious drivers alike: Performance is comparable to diesel in terms of torque and acceleration, while fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in the combined NEDC cycle are just 1,9 liters per 100 kilometers and 44, respectively. grams per kilometer. The plug-in hybrid Outlander is also recommended as a comfortable long-distance and touring vehicle: with a range of up to 827 kilometers (with a full tank and full battery).

Best possible balance

The car is equipped with three drive configurations, each of which, according to the manufacturer, ensures the best possible balance of performance and efficiency and is automatically activated depending on driving conditions and battery charge level. In "EV Drive Mode," the two electric motors drive the front and rear axles. In "Series Hybrid Mode," the gasoline engine acts as a generator, charging the battery and is also used briefly in driving situations such as overtaking. At high speeds or when power is required, the drive control system activates "Parallel Hybrid Mode," in which the gasoline engine, due to its efficiency advantages, provides the primary propulsion power and directly drives the front wheels. The two electric motors engage in this mode to provide support as needed.

The 12 kWh drive battery is fully regenerated in about five hours when charged from a household socket (230 V/10 A); using a rapid charger, this process takes only about 30 minutes (80 percent charge). Even while on the move, the driver can use the gasoline engine as a generator to charge the drive battery using the "Charge" function, for example, to provide sufficient battery capacity for a longer journey in electric drive mode. During braking and coasting, the electric motors also function as generators and contribute to power generation.

NCAP crash test

With a maximum score of five stars in the Euro NCAP crash test, the Plug-in Hybrid Outlander also meets the highest standards in passive safety. Optional assistance systems enhance active safety: Hill Start Assist ensures safe starting on inclines, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) maintains a constant safe distance from the vehicle ahead, Forward Collision Warning (FCM) automatically intervenes with the brakes when a collision is imminent, and Lane Keeping Assist (LDW) warns of unintentional lane departure.

The Plug-in Hybrid Outlander is now available at German dealers; the recommended retail price for the base version is €39.990.

Photos: © Mitsubishi