3 days ago
2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims
Mitsubishi's only electrified model is the Outlander Hybrid, which is a three-row plug-in hybrid SUV with all-electric driving range. The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid arrives with the same updates the gas-only Outlander got for 2025.
Anticipated changes include tweaks to the SUV's styling, interior, and equipment list. Rivals to the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid include other plug-in hybrid SUVs like the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, and Ford Escape. What's New
The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid enters the new model year with the same changes applied to the gas-only model for 2025. Updates should include: Subtly updated exterior styling
A redesigned center console with a larger wireless charging pad
A Yamaha premium audio system
A 12.3-inch screen for the driver and infotainment displays
Driving chops should improve with a recalibrated suspension and steering. Also, to provide a more premium experience, Mitsubishi is expected to add additional sound deadening. What We Think
If you're considering a 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander, the hybrid variant makes a case for itself as the best pick of the range. The SUV's plug-in hybrid powertrain provide gas-free driving range, and the extra power improves acceleration. Additionally, the lack of a full one-pedal driving mode limits the SUV's viability as a part-time EV.
The Outlander Hybrid's cabin is generally well executed. First- and second-row seating is spacious. Cargo volume is generous. There's lots of tech on hand, with two user-friendly touchscreen options providing easy access to the Outlander's features.
Although the Outlander Hybrid has a third row, the rear seats are too cramped for anyone other than children or smaller adults. Squeezing behind the second row can be tough, as well; there's hardly an opening for your legs to pass through while climbing into the back.
As one of Mitsubishi's stronger products in recent years, the Outlander Hybrid also benefits from the automaker's excellent warranty and two years of free maintenance. It may not be the flashiest plug-in hybrid SUV or have as much range as the segment-leading Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, but the Outlander Hybrid is a legitimate contender in its segment. MotorTrend Testing
The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid carries over with the same powertrain offered for 2025. That means the plug-in hybrid SUV will continue to have a combined 248 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque from a 2.4-liter inline-four paired with two electric motors. AWD is standard.
The PHEV version of Mitsubishi's compact SUV is much quicker than the gas-only model, requiring just 6.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph rather than the standard Outlander's time of 8.6 seconds. This is a difference you'll feel on the road. EV Range and Charging
Should Mitsubishi continue to outfit the Outlander Hybrid with a 20.0-kWh battery pack, we expect an all-electric range of 38 miles before the gas engine kicks in. That's pretty good, beating the 2025 Kia Sportage and Ford Escape plug-in hybrids, but is outdone by the Toyota RAV4 Plug-In. The 2026 Sportage may also match the Mitsubishi in electric range.
Using CHAdeMO fast charging, the battery can be charged from empty to 80 percent in 38 minutes. Finding a charger that runs on CHAdeMO instead of the more common CCS or Tesla-based NACS standards may be a challenge, but most will stick with slower Level 2 charging. Using a 240V outlet takes 6.5 hours for a full charge, while a simple 120V outlet can yield a full charge in 16 hours. Range totals 420 miles using both gasoline and electric power. Mitsubishi's Generous Warranty
Not only is the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid a solid option in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, it's expected to continue to be sold with a strong warranty. The Mitsubishi Motors Confidence warranties include: A 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty
A five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
A seven-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty
There's also a two-year/30,000 limited maintenance program with complimentary service. If something goes wrong while you're driving, Mitsubishi includes a five-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance program. Safety Features
All versions of the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid come equipped with the Mi-Pilot Assist suite of active driver assistance features. Standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition.
Front and rear automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, a driver focus warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic monitoring are available. Cargo Space and Interior Room
Although there's plenty of space for people in the first and second rows, the third row offers insufficient legroom for adults. The rear seats fold away, however, opening up a voluminous cargo area. Technology
The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid is expected to come equipped with a generous list of standard technology features. Entry-level models should receive a 12.3-inch driver display, push-button start, front USB ports, and an updated 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Higher trims should continue to offer a wireless phone charger, heated front seats, a hands-free power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, and a 360-degree camera. The SEL trim bundles even more desirable features such as reverse auto-tilting side mirrors, a memory system for the driver, and heated rear seats. Other available tech includes heated rear seats, massaging front seats, a head-up display, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and Bose nine-speaker premium audio.
Tech isn't just about screen size, and with the Outlander Hybrid, we appreciate that the on-screen menus are straightforward and easy to navigate. Value
Recommended Trim
We suspect Mitsubishi will continue to offer the Outlander Hybrid in ES, SE, SEL, SEL Black Edition, and Platinum Edition trims for the 2026 model year. The SE model should continue to be the sweet spot for 2026.
Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, several drive modes, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, as well as LED headlights and taillights. Other Small Plug-in Hybrid SUVs: Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid
Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid
Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
