2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SUV vs. The Competition
You want a hybrid vehicle for your family that requires less fuel to drive, but which model should you buy? Although the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Kia Sorento PHEV are popular choices here in St. Cloud, we at Don Robinson Mitsubishi believe that the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV may better suit your eco-conscious needs. Here’s a look at the Outlander PHEV SUV’s advantages based on 2023 model year specs.
Differences: 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs. 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV
Advantage: Gas-free driving
As a basic hybrid vehicle, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid uses its electric power in tandem with its gas-fueled motor to burn less gasoline when you drive. But, that means it still relies on fossil fuels every time you ignite the engine.
On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a plug-in hybrid. That means it can travel short distances purely on electric power before sipping from the gas tank; the 2023 model’s electric range is an estimated 38 miles, letting you travel to Coborn’s Grocery Store or Wilson Park with your dogs and back before recharging overnight.[1] That’s 38 miles of daily, gas-free, S-AWC performance in the roomy Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
Advantage: Affordability
You may assume that the Outlander PHEV would cost more than a new Toyota Highlander Hybrid in St. Cloud based on this advantage. But the Outlander triumphs in affordability, too.
Mitsubishi prices the 2023 Outlander PHEV to be accessible for more families at a starting MSRP of $39,845.[2] The basic 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE costs approximately $1,000 more than that. And, a fully loaded 2023 Outlander PHEV costs thousands of dollars less than a fully loaded 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum model.
Advantage: Warranty coverage
Another way that Mitsubishi gives you more bang for your buck is its stellar warranty programs. Buying a new Mitsubishi vehicle like the 2023 Outlander PHEV from Don Robinson Mitsubishi will come with the automaker’s renowned 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty.[3] Plus, a 5-Year/60,000-Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty will cover many unexpected malfunctions during your initial years of ownership.
Toyota only gives a new 2023 Highlander Hybrid 60 months/60,000 miles of powertrain coverage and 36 months/36,000 miles of basic bumper-to-bumper coverage. That’s significantly less time that your hybrid SUV would be ensured for proper operation while driving in Minnesota.
Differences: 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs. 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid SUV
Advantage: Lower price
Kia has garnered a reputation for being a budget brand, but the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV actually costs far less than a Kia Sorento PHEV. The entry-level 2023 Outlander PHEV ES has an MSRP around $10,000 less than the basic 2023 Sorento Plug-in Hybrid model, which costs a staggering $49,990.[2] That’s even $5,000 more than the high-tier Outlander PHEV RALLIART trim costs! At that rate, would you rather own a loaded Outlander PHEV or a base-model Sorento PHEV?
Advantage: Further electric range
Both the Outlander PHEV and Sorento PHEV can travel limited distances on pure electric energy before switching to gasoline. But, the EPA estimates that Outlander PHEV can travel further on electricity than the Sorento PHEV can. It rated the 2023 Outlander PHEV at an all-electric range of 38 miles, while it gave the 2023 Sorento PHEV a range rating of only 32 miles.[1]
Advantage: More bang for your buck
Why spend more money on a plug-in SUV for your family? The cheaper 2023 Outlander PHEV has the features your crew needs for commuting and traveling around St. Cloud. The twin-motor Super All Wheel Control system plus Drive Mode Selector optimizes acceleration, cornering, and braking performance, which can be beneficial on slippery winter roads in Minnesota. And, its ground clearance is an inch higher than the Sorento’s for higher elevation above road debris and curbs. You don’t have to pay extra for these features.
Advantage: More seats for bigger families
Being a larger SUV, the Outlander PHEV also provides notably more headroom in the first and second rows, which can suit taller passengers. Although second-row legroom is a bit less than in the Sorento, that allows the Outlander PHEV to hold a third row of seats for up to seven passengers, while the Sorento only seats five people. The Outlander PHEV can accommodate your family of 3-4 children, while the Sorento PHEV doesn’t have enough seats.
Ready to fix yourself up with a plug-in hybrid SUV that can do more? Check out the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV right here at Don Robinson Mitsubishi in St. Cloud, Minnesota.
[1] Electric range of up to 38 miles on a full charge and a combined electricity + gasoline range of 420 miles. Combined fuel economy Electricity + Gasoline of 64 MPGe. EPA highway mileage estimate. Actual range and mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
[2] Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for 2023 Outlander PHEV SE is $39,845. Premium paint charge for Black Diamond ($595), Red Diamond ($595), and White Diamond ($595). Accessories shown available at additional cost. Excludes destination/handling, tax, title, license, etc. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your retailer for details.
[3] All coverage terms are from the original in-service dates and are applicable only to the original owner of new, retailed models purchased from an authorized Mitsubishi dealer. Subsequent owners receive the balance of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles. See retailer for limited warranty and roadside assistance terms and conditions.