2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Makes Its Debut!

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will introduce the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model of the all-new Outlander crossover SUV on March 6 in New Zealand, the model's first market outside of Japan.

Pre-orders in New Zealand began in November 2021, and the number of orders received has exceeded expectations, with 500 pre-orders received by February 20. The Outlander PHEV will also be available in Australia and North America this year.

Mitsubishi Motors' flagship model is the all-new Outlander PHEV, which combines the company's expertise in electrification and all-wheel control technologies.

Everything from the body to the chassis and powertrain has been redesigned to further enhance a safe, secure, and comfortable ride, based on the product concept of "I-Fu-Do-Do," or authentic and majestic in Japanese.

The vehicle has a spacious interior and the functionality of an SUV, as well as the environmental friendliness, smooth yet powerful acceleration, and high quietness that is unique to an electric vehicle.

"In New Zealand, the gasoline model of the all-new Outlander was launched in October last year, and the Outlander was New Zealand's highest selling passenger car in 2021," said Yoichiro Yatabe, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

"By refining our electrification technology, we have greatly expanded the EV range and total combined driving range of the PHEV model, which will be beneficial for customers in New Zealand who often take long trips”

“We are confident that this electric vehicle with even greater appeal will be well received in New Zealand, where there is a growing interest in sustainable transport options." He added

For the record, the Outlander was introduced in 2001 as Mitsubishi Motors' first crossover SUV (sold as the Airtrek in Japan) and has since become a staple in the company's lineup, accounting for 20% of global sales volume in recent years.

The PHEV variant was added to the previous generation model and debuted as the world's first plug-in hybrid SUV in Japan in 2013.

It was launched sequentially in regions such as Europe, Oceania, North America, and Asean, with a total of around 300,000 units sold globally and approximately 2,600 units sold in New Zealand so far.