Mitsubishi Will Redesign Outlander PHEV for 2028
Owners of the current Outlander PHEV can expect significant powertrain updates in this upcoming redesign.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Mitsubishi is preparing a major redesign of the Outlander PHEV, its top-selling model in North America, with an expected launch in 2028. The new vehicle will feature a larger battery and an updated plug-in system.
Why it matters
Automakers are accelerating investments in hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains to help families combat rising gasoline prices. This industry-wide shift mirrors moves by competitors like Honda and Toyota to improve vehicle fuel efficiency.
The redesigned Outlander PHEV will incorporate a larger battery and an evolved version of the Super All-Wheel Control system. These changes follow market trends where competitors are reaching 78 miles of electric-only range on other models.
The players
Mitsubishi
A global automotive manufacturer known for the Outlander PHEV, which currently serves as its top-selling model in North America.
Honda
A major automaker implementing a new hybrid architecture across 15 global models to improve fuel efficiency by 2030.
Toyota
A global automotive leader that has transitioned the RAV4 model line to an all-hybrid powertrain configuration.
Volvo
A luxury vehicle manufacturer that recently expanded the electric-only range of its plug-in hybrid XC60 and XC90 SUV models.
The details
The upcoming Outlander PHEV will utilize a larger battery pack paired with a refined plug-in hybrid system designed to improve overall efficiency. The vehicle will also feature an updated iteration of Mitsubishi's signature Super All-Wheel Control, which provides enhanced traction and handling. This strategy aligns with Honda's plan to roll out a new hybrid architecture across 15 global models by 2030, which aims to cut fuel consumption by 10 percent.
Timeline
2022: Current generation Outlander PHEV launched.
2025: Mitsubishi previewed the Elevance Concept vehicle.
February 2027: Honda plans to start CR-V Hybrid production in Canada.
March 2027: Honda begins U.S. production of the next-generation CR-V Hybrid.
2028: Mitsubishi expects to launch the redesigned Outlander PHEV.
The Home Front
This development follows the broader automotive industry trend of shifting capital investment toward plug-in hybrid efficiency to buffer against volatile fuel costs. It signals a move away from standard gasoline vehicles toward high-range hybrid platforms.
If you are currently driving a 2022-generation Outlander PHEV, maintain your existing service schedule to ensure the vehicle remains reliable until the next generation arrives. If you are shopping for a new vehicle, compare the current electric-only ranges of available SUVs to determine if a plug-in hybrid fits your daily commute and charging capabilities.
The takeaway
The rise of 78-mile electric-only ranges in competing models suggests that battery capacity will be a primary competitive factor in the 2028 model year. Owners should keep a close watch on future model announcements for exact range and charging updates.
Further reading
For more on how recent manufacturer updates impact your next vehicle purchase, browse our Electric Vehicles section.
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