2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV





Total MSRP | $37,490 |
---|---|
Edmunds suggests you pay | $36,448 |

- 7 Colors
- 3 Trims
- 6 Packages
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Review

- Generous list of standard features
- Plug-in hybrid powertrain provides about 24 miles of all-electric range
- Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces
- Poor cabin quality with lots of creaks and rattles
- Weak acceleration and vague steering make for a bad driving experience
- It doesn't offer a third row like the regular Mitsubishi Outlander
- Small gas tank limits overall range
- New battery pack offers more electric range than last year's model
- Updated software reduces vibrations and noise from the engine
- Limited Edition trim introduced with more standard features
- Part of the third Outlander generation introduced for 2014
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is one of only a few small SUVs that can run on electric power — without being fully electric, that is. It's a plug-in hybrid, so you can recharge its battery at home or at a public charging station and drive a short distance — up to 24 miles, according to the EPA — on all-electric power. After that, the gas engine switches on and the Outlander PHEV drives like a typical hybrid. Keep the battery pack charged frequently and you might not need to fill up the gas tank very much at all.
For 2021, Mitsubishi has given the PHEV a few updates too. Most notably, it has a little more than last year as well as more power and a quieter cabin. However, it faces off against the new Toyota RAV4 Prime. This is also a plug-in hybrid but offers an EPA-estimated 42 miles of all-electric range. So how well does this improved Outlander PHEV compete? Read our Expert Rating below for our in-depth review.
Performance
The Outlander's stopping performance is similarly adequate, but we're not fans of its light brake pedal because it can make it tricky to consistently stop smoothly. Our test vehicle also lacked stability during our panic-braking testing. Then there's the steering. It's bizarrely light and lacks straight-ahead stability. You constantly have to fidget at the wheel to keep the Outlander going straight.
If you'd like to wander off the beaten path, the advanced all-wheel-drive system and reasonable level of ground clearance make the Outlander quite capable off-road.
Comfort
The climate control system performs adequately. We noted that the heated steering wheel only warms part of the rim, which isn't ideal.
When you're driving in EV mode on a full charge, the cabin is pretty quiet. But nail the gas when the engine is on and it fires up and sounds like a blender that's working too hard. We were also annoyed that using almost any button in our test vehicle triggered a beeping noise, and there didn't seem to be a way to disable the sounds.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV pricing
in Ashburn, VA




Interior
The driving position is upright and almost chairlike — taller drivers will certainly feel awkward. The steering wheel doesn't have quite enough extension adjustment either. Outward visibility is average for an SUV. One bonus is the available surround-view camera system; it makes maneuvering in tight spots a breeze.
Technology
The advanced driver aids are also a bit behind the times. The adaptive cruise control system can be slow to react to changing traffic and will not hold you in place when you come to a stop. Blind-spot monitoring works just fine, but there is no lane keeping function. We do like that the image from the surround-view camera can be cued up via a button on the steering wheel. That's a pretty clever touch.
Storage
Once the seats are folded, the Outlander PHEV offers up to 66 cubic feet of cargo space, which is also an average amount for a small SUV. The floor is relatively low, so you don't have to hoist gear up into the cargo area. In terms of cabin storage, there's nothing very remarkable beyond modestly sized bins and door pockets.
If you're fitting small children into the back, know that the safety seat anchors are tucked in pretty deep and hard to access. This can be annoying if you're frequently installing safety seats. There's lots of rear room, however, and we had no problem installing a large convertible seat in our testing. The top tether points are fairly accessible, though they have an odd configuration that feels almost like they're installed upside down.
Fuel Economy
On our 115-mile evaluation route, we were able to travel 26.6 miles before the gas engine kicked on, and after that we averaged 30.4 mpg. Those results were better than expected but still not amazing for a plug-in.
The Outlander's ace in the hole is that it's one of the few plug-in hybrids to offer DC fast charging. Power up using a public DC fast charger and you can add about 80% charge in 25 minutes.
Value
Wildcard
Which Outlander PHEV does Edmunds recommend?
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV models
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a small crossover SUV that seats five and comes in three trims: SEL, LE and GT. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain consists of a four-cylinder engine, a rechargeable battery pack and electric motors that provide a total output of 221 horsepower. It can go an EPA-estimated 24 miles on all-electric power before switching over to normal hybrid operation. All-wheel drive is standard. Other feature highlights include:
SEL
The base Outlander PHEV comes with:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Power liftgate
- Roof rails
- DC fast-charging capability
- Proximity entry and push-button start
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats
- 60/40-split folding and reclining rear seats
- 8-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- USB ports (one front, two rear)
- Six-speaker sound system
Standard driver safety aids include:
- Automatic emergency braking (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time)
- Forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
- Blind-spot monitoring (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
- Rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while you're in reverse)
Limited Edition
New to the lineup for 2021, the LE adds the following:
- 18-inch dark chrome alloy wheels
- Unique front and rear bumpers
- Blackout exterior trim and grille
- Sunroof
- Eight-speaker upgraded sound system
GT
The top-line Outlander PHEV comes with all of the above plus:
- LED headlights
- Heated steering wheel
- Dual household-style power outlets (replaces the rear USB ports)
- Quilted leather-appointed seat surfaces
- Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
- 360-degree camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Outlander and its surroundings for tight parking situations




Consumer reviews
There are no consumer reviews for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $37,490
- MPG & Fuel
- Electric + Gas (Combined City & Hwy): 74 MPGe
- Gas Only (Combined City & Hwy): 26 MPG
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.3 gal. capacity
- EPA Battery & Range
- Time To Charge Battery (At 240V)This can be tough to pin down, but we assume for simplicity that the 240V power source will enable the vehicle's onboard charger to operate at full capacity, and that the battery is fully depleted and will be recharged to 100%. Given those assumptions, the value provided is simply the battery's capacity divided by the onboard charger's power rating. For example, a battery rated at 100 kWh will need 12.5 hours to recharge fully using an 8.0-kW charger.: 4.0 hr.
- EPA Electricity RangeThis value is the estimated number of miles that a vehicle can travel in combined city and highway driving (using a mix of 55% highway and 45% city driving) before needing to be recharged, according to the EPA's testing methodology.: 24 mi.
- Gas Range in Miles (Cty/Hwy): 293.8/293.8 mi.
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 1-speed direct drive
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 221 hp
- Basic Warranty
- 5 yr./ 60000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 184.8 in. / Height: 67.3 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 70.9 in.
- Curb Weight: 4224 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 30.4 cu.ft.

- 7 Colors
- 3 Trims
- $36,995starting MSRP

Safety
Our experts’ favorite Outlander PHEV safety features:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Prevents a potential lane change collision by alerting the driver when a car is hidden in a blind spot or is approaching from behind.
- 360-Degree Camera
- Creates a simulated bird's-eye view of the car for tight parking situations, allowing the driver to see the vehicle from all angles.
- Forward Collision Mitigation
- Helps mitigate an accident by monitoring ahead, warning the driver of an impending collision and applying the brakes in certain scenarios.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
---|---|
Overall | 4 / 5 |
Driver | 4 / 5 |
Passenger | 4 / 5 |
Side Crash Rating | Rating |
Overall | 5 / 5 |
Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
Overall | 5 / 5 |
Driver | 5 / 5 |
Passenger | 5 / 5 |
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
Rollover | Rating |
Rollover | 4 / 5 |
Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
Risk Of Rollover | 13.7% |
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs. the competition

2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs. Toyota RAV4 Prime
The RAV4 Prime is the plug-in hybrid version of the popular Toyota RAV4, and it bests the Mitsubishi in nearly all key areas. The RAV4 Prime boasts more power, more all-electric driving range and quicker acceleration. It also has a more comfortable ride and additional cargo space. In our minds, this is an easy choice.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs. Honda CR-V Hybrid
The CR-V Hybrid isn't a plug-in like the Outlander but otherwise has some desirable attributes. It offers standard all-wheel drive, spacious seating, lots of cargo space and stable handling. It also gets higher EPA-estimated fuel economy than the EPA's estimate for the Outlander under regular hybrid operation.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs. Kia Niro PHEV
The Niro PHEV is the plug-in version of the extra-small Niro crossover SUV. There are some drawbacks compared to the Outlander such as less cargo space, no available all-wheel drive and slower acceleration. But on the upside, it's easier to park and gets higher EPA-estimated fuel economy.
FAQ
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV:
- New battery pack offers more electric range than last year's model
- Updated software reduces vibrations and noise from the engine
- Limited Edition trim introduced with more standard features
- Part of the third Outlander generation introduced for 2014
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV reliable?
Is the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
The least-expensive 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $36,295.
Other versions include:
- SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) which starts at $36,295
- LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) which starts at $37,995
- GT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) which starts at $41,995
What are the different models of Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Overview
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is offered in the following submodels: Outlander PHEV SUV. Available styles include LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD), SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD), and GT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD). Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV models are available with a 2.4 L-liter plug-in hybrid engine, with output up to 221 hp, depending on engine type. The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 1-speed direct drive. The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV comes with a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 10 yr./ 100000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What do people think of the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 Outlander PHEV.
Pros
- Generous list of standard features
- Plug-in hybrid powertrain provides about 24 miles of all-electric range
- Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces
Cons
- Poor cabin quality with lots of creaks and rattles
- Weak acceleration and vague steering make for a bad driving experience
- It doesn't offer a third row like the regular Mitsubishi Outlander
- Small gas tank limits overall range
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 Outlander PHEV featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD)
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,490. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) is trending $1,042 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,042 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $36,448.
The average savings for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) is 2.8% below the MSRP.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD)
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,190. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) is trending $1,091 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,091 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $38,099.
The average savings for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) is 2.8% below the MSRP.
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD)
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $43,190. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) is trending $1,205 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,205 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $41,985.
The average savings for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) is 2.8% below the MSRP.
Which 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEVS are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
Can't find a new 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEVs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Mitsubishi for sale.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
What is the MPG of a 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD), 1-speed direct drive, regular unleaded
26 MPG compined MPG,
26 city MPG/26 highway MPG
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD), 1-speed direct drive, regular unleaded
26 MPG compined MPG,
26 city MPG/26 highway MPG
2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD), 1-speed direct drive, regular unleaded
26 MPG compined MPG,
26 city MPG/26 highway MPG
EPA Est. MPG | 26 |
Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
Drive Train | all wheel drive |
Displacement | 2.4 L |
Passenger Volume | 131.4 cu.ft. |
Wheelbase | 105.1 in. |
Length | 184.8 in. |
Width | N/A |
Height | 67.3 in. |
Curb Weight | 4224 lbs. |
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Mitsubishi lease specials
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