In October of 2016, Nissan took majority ownership in Mitsubishi North America. With this, the rollout of a new flagship was appropriate and the Mitsubishi Outlander was created. In 2024, a new position exists for Mitsubishi and it’s the Outlander PHEV. With Nissan funding the efforts, clearly we recognize a Nissan Rogue in disguise as the Mitsubishi Outlander and with the PHEV we recognize additional chrome characteristics. But, in Grasso’s Garage, its all about price, comfort and appearance and the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV comes knocking at our door with a $46,295 base price… Yikes; that seems excessive for the Nissan-partnership brand and with Infiniti also under the Nissan umbrella, this is very surprising. Even with a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty similar to KIA, this price tag seems slightly excessive.
The 4-door, 5-seater all-wheel drive SUV was shown off in traditional Mitsubishi Red Diamond with a black accented roof and black interior, had the Nissan Rogue written all over it. Powering the 2024 Outlander PHEV was a 2.4L DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, with a single speed gear box that was very loud and noticeable on both the exterior and interior. The twin electric motors provided nice torque and quick get up and go when in multiple drive modes. LED lighting, automatic seats, heated and power mirrors, as well as 20 inch two-tone alloy wheels made the Mitsubishi very appealing near and far. Additional options included, the exterior color for $995, the SEL Premium package inclusive or a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, BOSE stereo and 10.8 inch head up display.
Mitsubishi, in its every effort of claiming space in the consumer automobile market boasts a small fleet and unchartered territory in its existence. With the release of the 2024 Outlander PHEV, clearly the focus shifts towards the hybrid market and eventually full EV, which we can expect in the future. Although nice looking and roomy, comfort was not exceptional and price was seriously inflated. I was expecting this vehicle to be in the high $30K to $40k range, but our tester exceeded $50K, which in my opinion puts it into the luxury category which this is not. Loaded to the hill, the Outlander and the Mitsubishi brand are certainly giving it their all, but I think they have some more work to do if they expect profitable results in 2024.
Grasso’s Garage is here for you! Looking for more auto reviews or are you in the market for a new car? Head to https://www.bostonherald.com/tag/automotive/. Also, for honest input, reach out to me directly: marc.grasso@bostonherald.com.
2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
MSRP: $46,295
MPG: 64 MPGe / 26 gas only / 27.1 as tested
As Tested: $51,835
