Eco-friendly suv battle: outlander phev vs. santa fe phev

The world of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) is rapidly expanding, offering drivers the best of both worlds: fuel efficiency and electric power. Two standout options in the PHEV market are the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV. Both vehicles boast impressive features, but which one is the better choice for your needs? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, examining their performance, features, and overall value.

Performance: Electric Range and Fuel Efficiency

Electric Range:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: 24 miles
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: 33 miles

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV has a clear advantage in electric range, offering 9 additional miles compared to the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. This increased range allows for more extended electric-only driving, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Fuel Efficiency:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: 74 MPGe combined
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: 76 MPGe combined

Both vehicles offer impressive fuel efficiency, but the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV slightly edges out the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV with a 2 MPGe advantage. This difference is negligible in real-world driving conditions, but it’s worth noting for those seeking maximum fuel efficiency.

Features: Technology and Comfort

Technology:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Mitsubishi Connect telematics
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Hyundai Blue Link telematics

Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of technology features, but the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV has a slight edge with its larger touchscreen and Hyundai Blue Link telematics system, which provides additional remote access and vehicle management capabilities.

Comfort:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: Leather-trimmed seats, heated front and rear seats, panoramic sunroof
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: Leather-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, panoramic sunroof

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a more luxurious and comfortable interior, with heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, however, features a panoramic sunroof, which provides a more open and airy feel.

Safety: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV:

• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic emergency braking

Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV:

• Forward collision warning with pedestrian detection
• Lane departure warning with lane keeping assist
• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV has a more comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go. These features enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, making the Santa Fe PHEV a more secure choice for families and commuters.

Price and Value

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV:

• Starting price: $36,245
• Top trim price: $44,745

Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV:

• Starting price: $34,950
• Top trim price: $48,500

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a slightly lower starting price, but the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers more features and a higher trim level. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Which is Right for You?

The decision between the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV depends on your specific requirements. If you value maximum electric range, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is the clear choice. If you prioritize technology and comfort, the Santa Fe PHEV also has an edge. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a panoramic sunroof, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a solid choice.

Other Key Differences

Powertrain:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: 2.4-liter gasoline engine, 2 electric motors, 221 horsepower
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, 60 kW electric motor, 261 horsepower

Cargo Space:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: 33.5 cubic feet behind the second row, 68.4 cubic feet with seats folded
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row, 72.1 cubic feet with seats folded

Towing Capacity:

• Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: 2,000 pounds
• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: 3,500 pounds

Final Note: The Winner

Both the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV are excellent plug-in hybrid options. However, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV emerges as the overall winner due to its superior electric range, more comprehensive technology and safety features, and higher towing capacity. While the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offers a slightly lower price and a panoramic sunroof, the Santa Fe PHEV’s advantages outweigh these differences for most buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a longer warranty?
A: Both vehicles offer a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Q: Can I charge either vehicle at a public charging station?
A: Yes, both vehicles can be charged at public Level 2 and Level 3 charging stations.

Q: Which vehicle has a higher ground clearance?
A: The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a slightly higher ground clearance of 8.5 inches compared to the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV’s 8.2 inches.