The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a company car tax marvel. Although it’s based on the regular diesel-engined version of the Outlander, this PHEV model is a petrol-electric hybrid, which means ultra-low CO2 emissions and low benefit-in-kind car tax. Essentially it can be driven by either its naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine, or its electric motors powered by its batteries alone, or a combination of the two. Those batteries can be charged on the move, or the PHEV can be plugged into the mains. As a result, against conventionally powered rivals such as the Skoda Kodiaq and Nissan X-Trail, the Outlander will potentially save company car taxpayers thousands of pounds in tax payments over their ownership. Because it can run on pure electric too, many people will be able to charge at home and travel to work and back using no fuel at all.
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has been revised to provide better driveability, better handling, increased fuel efficiency and, with the high-grade Exceed, all the safety kit you need.
Pros Country ride and bump absorption is now excellent Cabin retains a premium, yet value-for-money feel Seamless transition between power modes under all driving conditions
Cons Urban ride can be a little sharp at times Price has crept up, putting it even further away from regular Outlander No seven-seat option is an opportunity missed
The Mitusbishi Outlander PHEV is more than just a flag waver for plug-in hybrid vehicles. It is a marker in the sand for the Japanese car maker. Though the on-road experience may not be thrilling, the Outlander PHEV is very much the equal of other medium SUVs: comfortable to ride in, quieter than most traditional internal combustion competitors, and missing none of the space and flexibility that make SUVs so popular. Day-to-day running powered by electricity and the freedom to venture well beyond city limits on petrol power make the Outlander PHEV a flexible family choice, and the lack of oddball aero styling means there's no chance of being branded a fanatical eco-warrior - all of which makes the Outlander PHEV an enticing, if slightly pricey, prospect.
For 2017, the standard Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system gains Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone interfaces. A power liftgate and an automatic brake hold feature are also added to the already ample standard features list.
Pros More standard features than many of its competitors Heavily insulated cabin remains quiet at all times Order the optional adjustable suspension for an especially supple ride.
Cons Less room in the backseat and cargo area compared to many competitors Slower than average acceleration from either of its available engines Some interior materials look cheap considering the price point.
The 2017 Lincoln MKC ranks 8 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. If you're looking for a luxury SUV with a comfortable, relaxed ride and an upscale, feature-laden interior, the 2017 Lincoln MKC could meet your needs. However, if you can stretch your budget a bit more you can get an SUV with better performance and more cargo and passenger space.
Pros Hushed cabin Cushioned ride Generous list of standard features
Cons Little rear-seat legroom Mediocre cargo room Noticeable turbo lag from base and upgraded engines
The 2017 MKC is a step in the right direction for Lincoln, thanks to controlled handling and interior luxury, but it lacks rear seat space and the cachet of its luxury rivals.
Pros Strong turbocharged engines Responsive steering, handling Nicely detailed cabin Real. Radio. Knobs. Leather and wood (from Scotland, no less)
Cons Tight back seat EcoBoost engines aren't always 'eco' Transmission doesn't always match engine's urgency The anonymity of Lincoln today
