2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
Mitsubishi’s only electrified model is the 2026 Outlander Hybrid, which is a three-row plug-in hybrid SUV with all-electric driving range. The fourth-generation model was introduced for 2023 and returns this year with the same updates the gas-only Outlander got for 2025.
Rivals to the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid include other plug-in hybrid SUVs like the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, and Ford Escape.
What’s New
The Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid is back this year with a midcycle refresh. Changes include:
Basics
- Larger-capacity battery
- Retuned suspension dampers, springs, stabilizer bars, and bushings
Exterior
- Restyled grille and front bumper
- New 20-inch wheels
Interior
- Revised sound deadening
- New materials and colors
- Heated and cooled front seats
- Redesigned center console with larger-capacity storage, new cupholders, and a restyled phone charger
- Yamaha sound system
- Available 12.3-inch touchscreen
What We Think
If you’re considering a 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander, the hybrid variant makes a case for itself as the best pick of the range. The SUV’s plug-in hybrid powertrain provides gas-free driving range, and the extra power improves acceleration. Additionally, the lack of a full one-pedal driving mode limits the SUV’s viability as a part-time EV.
The Outlander Hybrid’s cabin is generally well executed. First- and second-row seating is spacious. Cargo volume is generous. There’s lots of tech on hand, with two user-friendly touchscreen options providing easy access to the Outlander’s features.
Although the Outlander Hybrid has a third row, the rear seats are too cramped for anyone other than children or smaller adults. Squeezing behind the second row can be tough, as well; there’s hardly an opening for your legs to pass through while climbing into the back.
As one of Mitsubishi’s stronger products in recent years, the Outlander Hybrid also benefits from the automaker’s excellent warranty and two years of free maintenance. It may not be the flashiest plug-in hybrid SUV or have as much range as the segment-leading Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, but the Outlander Hybrid is a legitimate contender in its segment.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
Performance
Mitsubishi says the 2026 Outlander Hybrid will receive a larger-capacity battery this year that will increase electric driving range as well as improve acceleration, though by how much is still unclear.
The hybrid’s 2.4-liter inline-four and two electric motors carry over from last year. In the outgoing model, the system developed a combined 248 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. AWD is standard.
The previous PHEV version of Mitsubishi’s compact SUV is much quicker than the gas-only model, requiring just 6.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, quite a bit quicker than the standard Outlander’s 8.6 seconds. Drivability should improve with the new battery.
EV Range and Charging
Mitsubishi is outfitting the Outlander Hybrid with a larger battery this year, which will replace the model’s previous 20.0-kWh pack. Electric driving range was 38 miles with the outgoing setup—already pretty good—and should improve with the upgrade.
The old number beats the 2025 Kia Sportage and Ford Escape plug-in hybrids but is outdone by the Toyota RAV4 Plug-In. This year’s new battery should help the Outlander Hybrid close in on the Toyota.
Charging will probably be like before. Using CHAdeMO fast charging, the Outlander Hybrid can be charged from empty to 80 percent in 38 minutes. Finding a charger that uses CHAdeMO instead of the more common CCS or Tesla-based NACS standards may be a challenge, but most will probably stick with slower Level 2 charging.
Using a 240V outlet, it takes 6.5 hours for a full charge with the outgoing battery, while a simple 120V outlet can yield a full charge in 16 hours. Range totals 420 miles using both gasoline and electric power.
Safety Features
All versions of the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid come equipped with the Mi-Pilot Assist suite of active driver assistance features. Standard equipment includes:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keeping assist
- Traffic sign recognition
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Although there’s plenty of space for people in the first and second rows, the third row offers insufficient legroom for adults. The rear seats fold away, however, opening a voluminous cargo area.
Technology
Infotainment
The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid comes equipped with a generous list of standard technology features. Entry-level models receive a 12.3-inch driver display, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and front USB ports. A 12.3-inch touchscreen interface and wireless phone charger are also available.
Tech isn’t just about screen size, and with the Outlander Hybrid, we appreciate that the on-screen menus are straightforward and easy to navigate.
Sound System
Every Outlander Hybrid features a standard Yamaha 12-speaker sound system.
Available Upgrades
Exterior appearance upgrades include chrome or black roof rails and accents. A tonneau cover, mud flaps, sunroof, floormats, and cargo hold provisions like netting are also available.
Value
Standard Features
The Outlander Hybrid isn’t just the most powerful version of the SUV—it also offers good all-electric driving range that should improve this year. There’s also plenty of passenger space in the first two rows and a big cargo area. Upgrades this year build on refinement, as well.
Recommended Trim
We suspect Mitsubishi will continue to offer the Outlander Hybrid in ES, SE, SEL, SEL Black Edition, and Platinum Edition trims for the 2026 model year. The SE model should continue to be the sweet spot for 2026.
Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, several drive modes, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, and LED headlights and taillights.
Mitsubishi’s Generous Warranty
Not only is the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid a solid option in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, it’s sold with a strong warranty. The Mitsubishi Motors Confidence warranties include:
- A 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty
- A five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
- A seven-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty
There’s also a two-year/30,000-mile limited maintenance program with complimentary service. If something goes wrong while you’re driving, Mitsubishi includes a five-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance program.
