Mitsubishi has slashed the price of New Zealand's best-selling plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) SUV, a move that's set to bring the model in line with many of its petrol- and diesel-powered competitors.
At $55,990 (plus On-Road Costs), the new Outlander PHEV VRX is available for $8,000 less than the previous top-of-the-range model, making it the most affordable PHEV Mitsubishi has ever released. The first Outlander PHEV VRX stock at the new price point is expected to arrive in dealerships by the end of the month.
Read more: Mitsubishi Outlander review
However both MY19 Outlander PHEV models – XLS and VRX – will feature a new exterior look and updated components to deliver a better ride.
Mitsubishi say a revision to the front and rear suspension and increased use of structural adhesives has improved comfort and stability in MY18 models, while steering responsiveness has also been enhanced with increased stroke ratio and a revised steering control programme.
To reduce the engine noise, a double layer cover has been added to the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter and muffler, as well as a mass plate on the main muffler. Improvements to the air cleaner and resonator also help reduce the engine noise level.
An exterior facelift includes high contrast two-tone alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and a new front and rear design. Inside, a new front seat design features added bolstering for greater support. Both models gain rear air conditioner vents and one-touch window control from the driver’s seat.
On the VRX, hill climbing performance has been boosted by improvements to the traction control system. LED high beams and fog lamp bezels have also been added.
In the engine bay, the 19MY Outlander PHEV retains the same class-leading EV technology with an electric range of 54km and a combined range of over 600km.
“Mitsubishi Motors is a pioneer in hybrid EV technology and, as much as possible, we don’t want price to be a barrier to people deciding to join the move towards EV motoring,” said Misubishi Motors New Zealand Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Reece Congdon.
“At $55,990 (plus On-Road Costs), the new Outlander PHEV VRX is available for $8,000 less than the previous top-of-the-range model, making it the most luxurious and affordable PHEV Mitsubishi Motors NZ (MMNZ) has ever released.
“By bringing the cost of the new PHEV VRX in line with a number of petrol and diesel equivalents on the market, we are offering real choice to our customers.
“Kiwis have a longstanding affection for the Outlander badge; the PHEV model was the first hybrid SUV in New Zealand and, ever since its launch in 2014, it has remained the most popular vehicle in its class.”
Congdon highlighted how key upgrades to previous editions alongside improvements to New Zealand’s charging infrastructure are broadening the possibilities for PHEV owners looking to go further in pure EV mode.
“EV infrastructure has come a long way since we originally launched Outlander PHEV,” said Congdon. “By the same stroke, the vehicle itself has undergone continued development to improve its EV range and performance.
“In 2017, we extended the battery range to 54km, enabled EV priority mode and added DC Fast Charge2 capability, which recharges the battery from 0 to 80 per cent in around 20 minutes. At that time, there were less than 50 Fast Charge stations around the country. There are now more than 100, with more in the pipeline, allowing for longer, more convenient journeys on battery power alone.”
“There are currently almost 1,000 Outlander PHEVs on New Zealand roads – more than any other new hybrid SUV or pure EV on the market – and we believe our latest model will encourage even more Kiwis to get on board.”
In 2017, the Misubishi Outlander PHEV was New Zealand's bestselling new petrol plug-in model with over 65 per cent of the market (255 units). In the first six months of 2018, the Outlander still dominates its segment despite increased competition with 38 percent (126 units).