Comeback with a plug

Mitsubishi is back with an old acquaintance. The Outlander PHEV, once Europe's best-selling plug-in hybrid SUV, is returning to the roads after a five-year break. Visually striking, the 4.72-metre-long part-time electric vehicle with its chunky front is independent and solid. In the interior, large displays, comfortable seats, higher-quality materials and a Yamaha sound system ensure a significant leap in quality.

The Outlander PHEV is powered by a 2.4-litre petrol engine and two electric motors, which together mobilize 225 kW (306 hp). The electric range is up to 85 kilometers - just enough for tax benefits, but no longer quite state of the art. Mitsubishi also remains conservative when it comes to charging: the CHAdeMO fast-charging connection is hardly widespread in Europe and a full charge takes six and a half hours at the wallbox.

On the road, the large plug-in hybrid SUV impresses with a chassis trimmed for comfort, a pleasant ride quality and an all-wheel drive system that ensures stability on any surface with seven driving modes. Instead of a CVT gearbox, a clever drive control system regulates the change between electric and hybrid mode almost imperceptibly.

Prices start at an ambitious 49,990 euros, with the top-of-the-range version costing almost 60,000 euros. Not a bargain, but with its unusually generous standard equipment and convincing driving characteristics, it will find its fans. (aum)