Is it time to plug in?
Mitsubishi Outlander, Toyota RAV4 take differing approaches
PLUG-IN hybrid electric vehicles represent the midpoint between nonplug-in hybrids and fullon battery-electrics. With their batteries fully charged, PHEVS can cover short commuting distances without the aid of the internal combustion engine (ICE), which engages once battery power drops to a minimum level.
The Toyota RAV4 Prime and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV appear well matched for the price, but each takes a unique approach.
The Prime was introduced for 2021 as an offshoot of the RAV4 hybrid. The Outlander PHEV — part of the new Outlander lineup — was launched for 2023. The PHEV was also a model in the previous Outlander lineup.
Compared with the Toyota, the Mitsubishi is about 4 inches longer, 2 inches wider and taller, and it has an
inch more distance between the front and rear wheels. Those dimensions align with the Nissan Rogue, which shares a platform (Mitsubishi is part of the Nissan-renault Alliance).
In terms of design, both vehicles are pretty much identical to their
ICE counterparts. The Outlander’s nose is bold, square, modern, chunky and daring. The Prime’s nose falls in line with other Toyotas. It’s definitely sharp looking.
Both vehicles’ interiors are outfitted with infotainment screens that pop out above the dashboards. Seating is spacious, but the Outlander’s available massage function (for both front-seat passenger seats) is a welcome touch.
The most notable difference between the two is Outlander’s kid-size third-row seat, which is standard for all trims. When not required, it folds completely flat (as does the second row), creating a spacious cargo hold.
Powertrains
The PHEV comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and front and rear electric motors to produce 248 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque.
The Toyota has more power: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder and dual electric motors make a net 302 horsepower. (Toyota doesn’t provide a net torque value). According to the respective automakers, zero-to60-mph for the Outlander takes 6.5 seconds, while the RAV4 gets it done in 5.8 seconds.
With a full battery, the Outlander PHEV’S combined city/highway fuel economy is rated at the equivalent
of 64 mpg, which is well short of the Prime’s rating of 94 mpg.
Range and charging
Toyota says the Prime can travel up to 42 miles on a full battery. Recharging using a 120-volt outlet takes a claimed 12 hours, and a 240volt connection cuts that to about five hours.
For the Outlander, the maximum range is 38 miles in EV mode. Recharging takes a claimed nine hours using 120 volts, and four hours at 240 volts. Using a DC fast charger brings the battery to 80 percent of capacity in about 25 minutes.
When fully fueled and charged, the Prime has a claimed range of up to 600 miles. The Outlander PHEV is good for about 420.
How they drive
They’re both smooth operators, but the Toyota’s extra off-the-line snap is more fun. At higher speeds, the Mitsubishi accelerates quickly and does a good job at soaking up the road’s rough patches.
There are also Tarmac, Gravel, Snow and Mud modes that adjust the PHEV’S powertrain settings for maximum traction.
Which would you choose?
By the numbers, the RAV4 Prime is better on fuel than the Outlander PHEV and it has a much greater driving range, aided by a larger gas tank. And the Prime has a significant performance edge. It’s base-priced at $42,900 including destination charges but excluding applicable government rebates.
The Outlander PHEV has a lower base price — $41,200 — and it has more interior space and a standard third-row seat, and it’s more comfortable. It also has more all-wheeldrive settings to assist in a variety of surface conditions.
The choice will come down to these factors as well as personal preferences: style, brand loyalty and trust, and payment options.
In either case, a PHEV presents a best-of-both-worlds scenario. For commuting, you might seldom go beyond the electric range as long as you keep it charged every day. And when you want to go on longer trips, you can gas up and go.