The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV finishes near the bottom of our hybrid and electric SUV rankings. It’s outdated and less comfortable than rivals, and in a real “you had one job” scenario, its fuel economy ratings aren’t even that impressive.
Pros Decent cargo capacity Excellent warranty
Cons Looks and feels antiquated in almost every aspect Low-rent interior Below-average fuel economy ratings compared to other PHEVs Disappointing powertrain, handling, and ride quality
Mitsubishi has already revealed the next-generation Outlander, but it has still introduced several significant changes to the outgoing one for the 2021 model year. Most notably, the Outlander lineup is now only available with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. Gone are the base four-cylinder engine and available V-6. A third row of seats is also gone because it's not compatible with the location of the PHEV's battery pack. The latter now has a larger capacity than before and offers more all-electric driving range (24 miles versus 22), and the PHEV's top speed increases from 79 to 83 mph during all-electric operation. The plug-in's old 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is replaced with a more powerful 2.4-liter version. And now with a bigger rear-mounted electric motor, the PHEV's combined horsepower increases by 31 to 221 horses total.
Pros Plug-in-hybrid powertrain feels responsive, adjustable regenerative-braking settings, substantial cargo space.
Cons No longer offers a third row, considerably more expensive than before, other plug-in hybrids are much more efficient.
For 2021 New battery pack offers more electric range than last year's model.Updated software reduces vibrations and noise from the engine.Limited Edition trim introduced with more standard features.
Pros Generous list of standard features Plug-in hybrid powertrain provides about 24 miles of all-electric range Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces
Cons Poor cabin quality with lots of creaks and rattles Weak acceleration and vague steering make for a bad driving experience It doesn't offer a third row like the regular Mitsubishi Outlander Small gas tank limits overall range
The 2021 Lexus UX taps design verve to hawk its cozy interior space and its middling performance.
Pros Good looks outside Inside, too Frugal UX Hybrid Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, gratis
Cons Drivetrain can drone Short on acceleration Gets pricey for its size Cramped rear seat
For 2021 Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are now standard.
Pros High fuel economy Lots of standard and optional safety tech Maneuverable around town thanks to small dimensions
Cons Infotainment interface can be difficult to use Limited rear legroom Cargo area has a high liftover height All-wheel drive is only available on the UX 250h hybrid
The 2021 Lexus UX's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Lexus UX has a score of 7.2 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Refined ride quality and handling Great fuel economy High predicted reliability rating
Cons Distracting infotainment controls Tepid acceleration Relatively small cargo area
