The Mitsubishi Outlander III (facelift 2015) 2.0 MIVEC (203 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4WD represents a significant step in Mitsubishi’s commitment to electrification and fuel efficiency. Introduced in 2015 as a refresh of the third-generation Outlander, this variant was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, where demand for plug-in hybrid SUVs was growing. While not initially a major seller in the United States, it showcased Mitsubishi’s technological capabilities and offered a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered crossovers. The Outlander PHEV distinguished itself with its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and impressive electric range for its time.
Mitsubishi Outlander III (facelift 2015) Overview
The Outlander III, launched originally in 2012, received a substantial facelift in 2015, bringing with it revised styling, improved interior materials, and, crucially, the introduction of the plug-in hybrid powertrain. This version of the Outlander aimed to blend the practicality of a compact SUV with the environmental benefits of an electric vehicle. Positioned as a five-seater crossover, it competed with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, but offered a unique selling proposition with its plug-in hybrid technology. The facelifted model focused on refining the existing platform and enhancing the overall driving experience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Outlander III (facelift 2015) 2.0 MIVEC Plug-in Hybrid 4WD is a powertrain combining a 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors. The gasoline engine, designated 4B11, produces 121 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 190 Nm (140.14 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. This engine operates on a multi-port fuel injection system and features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The two electric motors, one powering the front wheels (82 Hp, 137 Nm) and the other powering the rear wheels (82 Hp, 195 Nm), contribute a combined 163 horsepower. The total system output is rated at 203 horsepower.
The vehicle utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system, allowing for all-electric driving for up to 54 kilometers (33.55 miles) on the NEDC cycle. The 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the floor, provides the energy storage for the electric motors. The Outlander PHEV can operate in various modes, including EV mode for pure electric driving, Series Hybrid mode where the gasoline engine acts as a generator for the electric motors, and Parallel Hybrid mode where both the engine and motors can directly power the wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11 seconds, with a top speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The combined fuel consumption is an impressive 1.7 l/100 km (138.4 US mpg), with CO2 emissions of just 41 g/km (NEDC).
Design & Features
The Outlander III (facelift 2015) maintains the overall SUV silhouette of the original model, but receives styling updates to enhance its visual appeal. These include a revised front fascia with a bolder grille, redesigned headlights, and updated bumpers. The interior features improved materials and a more modern dashboard layout. The vehicle offers seating for five passengers and provides 463 liters (16.35 cu. ft.) of trunk space.
Key features of the Outlander PHEV include its all-wheel-drive system, which provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. Safety features, crucial for a modern crossover, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive airbag system. The electric steering system provides responsive handling, and the vehicle offers a comfortable ride thanks to its independent McPherson strut front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension. The Outlander PHEV also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further improve fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Outlander |
| Generation | Outlander III (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 MIVEC (203 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4WD |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 1.7 l/100 km (138.4 US mpg, 166.2 UK mpg, 58.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 41 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.8 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 12 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 300 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 54 km (33.55 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 13.4 kWh/100 km (21.57 kWh/100 mi, 156 MPGe, 7.5 km/kWh, 4.6 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 120 km/h (74.56 mph) |
| Electric motor power (x2) | 82 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (x2) | 137 Nm (101.05 lb.-ft.) / 195 Nm (143.82 lb.-ft.) |
| System power | 203 Hp |
| Engine Power | 121 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 190 Nm (140.14 lb.-ft.) @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Kerb Weight | 1860-1880 kg (4100.6 – 4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4695 mm (184.84 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1710 mm (67.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
The Mitsubishi Outlander III (facelift 2015) 2.0 MIVEC Plug-in Hybrid 4WD was a pioneering vehicle in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment. It offered a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, all-wheel-drive capability, and practicality, making it a popular choice for environmentally conscious drivers in Europe and Asia. While its presence in the US market was limited, it demonstrated Mitsubishi’s commitment to innovation and laid the groundwork for future electrified vehicles.
