Like a shape-shifter, Mitsubishi has been many things. First known to Americans as the maker of gasstingy little Dodges and Plymouths, Mitsubishi has also produced its own econoboxes, sporty coupes, high-strung sport compacts, and off-road-ready SUVS. Repeatedly, though, changing markets or a wave of competitors washed out the ground beneath Mitsu's feet.
The brand's latest niche is the plugin-hybrid compact crossover. Its Outlander PHEV, sold here since 2018, enters its second generation for 2023-but the floodwaters of competition are already rising.
A corporate tie-up with Nissan means the latest Outlander is based on the Nissan Rogue, but the two look nothing alike. Under the hood is Mitsubishi's engine: a 131-hp Atkinson-cycle 2.4-liter inline-four aided by three electric motors, one of which drives the rear wheels.
This story is from the June 2023 edition of Car and Driver.
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This story is from the June 2023 edition of Car and Driver.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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