New Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV coming in 2021

While some legacy auto brands are still grappling with electrification, the globe’s first plug-in hybrid SUV is headed for its second generation.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which debuted in Australia in 2014, is set for an overhaul in the first half of 2021.

Of course, the rest of the Outlander family will go through generational change at the same time, but we’re not that interested in the orthodox ICE models here, are we?

Sadly, Mitsubishi has shared few factual details apart from the rough global timing.

But one thing is for sure, the new Outlander will be a very thorough overhaul.

Its exterior styling is expected to be similar to the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer concept that was unveiled at the Geneva motor show in 2019.

The current generation Outlander went on-sale in Australia in 2012, four years before Mitsubishi aligned itself technically with the Nissan-Renault alliance.

That means the Outlander will likely share its platform with the next Nissan X-Trail due here in 2022.

The PHEV system should be thoroughly updated and improved.

Currently the Outlander PHEV combines a 2.4-litre Atkinson cycle petrol four-cylinder with a 70kW electric motor and 13.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The electric range is 54km.

Speculation has focused on a 2.5-litre engine, 20kWh battery pack and 70km electrified running.