Discover the 2026 Outlander PHEV’s larger 22.7 kWh battery, 296 hp output and upgraded tech—now with a higher price tag. Learn more today!
Mitsubishi Motors has rolled out the refreshed 2026 Outlander PHEV to Australian dealerships, bringing a larger battery, more power and a suite of tech upgrades. While the enhancements raise the SUV’s appeal, the price tag has also jumped by up to AU$3,000 (around VND 56 million) compared with the previous model.
Key Powertrain Improvements
The standout change is a new 22.7 kWh lithium‑ion battery, up from the 20 kWh pack found in the 2025 variant. This extra capacity translates to an electric‑only range of up to 103 km (NEDC) – roughly 84 km under the more realistic WLTP cycle.
Coupled with the larger battery is a revised plug‑in hybrid drivetrain that pairs a 2.4‑litre gasoline engine with two high‑output electric motors, delivering a combined 296 horsepower – an increase of about 54 hp over the previous generation. Official fuel‑consumption figures show a combined 1.2 L/100 km (NEDC), down from 1.5 L/100 km.
How the Hybrid System Works
The gasoline engine continues to serve a dual purpose: it can act as a generator to recharge the battery or directly power the front wheels when extra torque is needed. This flexibility mirrors the system used in the earlier model.
Chassis, Suspension and Noise‑Reduction Upgrades
Mitsubishi has refined the chassis and steering setup in Australia, introducing a lower front and rear spring rate, a slimmer front stabiliser bar, and a retuned electric power steering (EPS) for a lighter, more responsive feel. A new steel bonnet and front valance help keep cabin noise at bay, while Bridgestone summer tyres improve ride comfort and handling.
Exterior Tweaks
Styling changes are subtle but noticeable. The 2026 PHEV adopts the refreshed front and rear bumper designs seen on the gasoline‑only Outlander, and buyers can choose from re‑designed 18‑inch or 20‑inch alloy wheels.
Interior Tech and Comfort
Inside, the SUV gets a modern 12.3‑inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Connected Car Services, a 360‑degree Bird’s‑Eye view camera, and driver‑monitoring sensors. The base ES trim includes a Yamaha Premium 8‑speaker sound system, fabric seats, and a suite of safety aids such as blind‑spot warning, lane‑keep assist and front/rear autonomous emergency braking.
Higher trims add premium touches:
- Aspire: heated front seats, heated steering wheel, wireless phone charger, Mi‑Pilot driver‑assist package (lane‑keeping and traffic‑jam assist), 20‑inch wheels.
- Exceed: ventilated front seats, digital side mirrors, aluminium pedal set.
- Exceed Tourer: semi‑aniline brick‑brown leather, Yamaha Ultimate 12‑speaker system, front‑seat massage, heated second‑row seats.
Notably, the 7‑seat (5+2) layout is now exclusive to the Aspire version; all other trims revert to a five‑seat configuration.
Pricing, Warranty and Market Position
Mitsubishi continues to offer a conditional 10‑year warranty with fixed‑price maintenance and roadside assistance for the Outlander PHEV. However, the plug‑in hybrid still sits roughly AU$15,500–AU$16,000 (VND 288–297 million) above the gasoline AWD version, depending on the trim.
In Australia, the Outlander PHEV competes directly with the Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid, Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid, Kia Sorento PHEV and Skoda Kodiaq PHEV. With strong price pressure from Chinese manufacturers offering cheaper hybrids, Mitsubishi will need to leverage its upgraded specs to maintain market share.
Situation in Vietnam
Unlike the Australian market, the Outlander PHEV has disappeared from Mitsubishi Vietnam’s official website. Dealership staff confirm that deposits are no longer being accepted, inventory is nearly depleted, and there are no announced plans for a new shipment. This reflects a prolonged slump in demand for the model in Vietnam.
Rumours suggest the upcoming Destinator may fill the gap left by the Outlander. Though classified as a compact C‑segment SUV, the Destinator boasts a D‑segment‑sized wheelbase, potentially appealing to buyers seeking a seven‑seat Mitsubishi.
Conclusion
The 2026 Outlander PHEV arrives with a stronger battery, higher output and a refreshed tech cabin, but its higher price and stiff competition pose challenges. Prospective buyers in Australia will weigh the longer electric range and improved performance against the cost, while Vietnamese customers may soon look to the Destinator as the brand’s next plug‑in hybrid offering.
