Caitlin Moran
No Comments

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Debuts at 2016 New York International Auto Show

Decrease Font Size Increase Font Size Text Size Print This Page

All the world’s a stage, and Mitsubishi is looking to take advantage of that fact. During the 2016 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), Mitsubishi unveiled the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV in the most peculiar way possible—but putting on a play.

Mitsubishi 2016 NYIAS Playbill

Here’s the playbill for Mitsubishi’s “play” at the 2016 NYIAS

What was one of the weirdest debuts during NYIAS, though, didn’t detract from the much-anticipated—and frequently delayed—Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.


See What Has Changed: Compare the 2017 Outlander PHEV with past versions


2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Front End

The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV in all its glory

“What makes the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV so special is that it offers the best of both worlds with a balance of electric efficiency and long-range practicality,” said Don Swearingen, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors North America. “Mitsubishi put its engineering prowess and knowledge to work to create a vehicle that meets the demand of a growing number off consumers who need a car that is capable and environmentally friendly. The Outlander PHEV will offer a high electric range and combined miles per gallon (MPG).”

Swearingen even promised that the Outlander PHEV will arrive on dealership lots by the fall of 2016.

Honestly, I’ll believe it when I see it.


It’s An SUV’s World: Learn more about Mitsubishi’s plan to expand its SUV lineup


2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Taillights

Not only is it a PHEV—it also loves New York

Despite the multiple delays of the Outlander PHEV’s American production, this plug-in hybrid SUV is considered the best-selling PHEV in Europe. For the American market, though, it will have a variety of mechanical features that are sure to impress. A full-time, twin-electric motor 4WD system is one of the main features, along with the SUV’s three available drive modes.

These drive modes include EV, which is full electric mode; series hybrid, which offers electric power with generator operations; and parallel hybrid, which is engine power with electric motor assistance. The SUV selects whichever mode is most efficient as the vehicle drives.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV sounds like it’s truly going to be a one-of-a-kind vehicle—hopefully, Mitsubishi will finally follow through and this eco-friendly SUV will arrive on dealer lots this fall.

PHOTOS: The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV