Comparison - Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Exceed S 2021 - vs - Lexus GX 460 Black Line 2022

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 It’s outdated and less comfortable than rivals, and in a real “you had one job” scenario, its fuel economy ratings aren’t even that impressive.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.