Mitsubishi outlander phev vs toyota rav4 plug-in hybrid: the ultimate guide to electric suvs

The automotive industry is witnessing a remarkable shift towards electrification, and the SUV segment is no exception. Two prominent contenders in this arena are the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and electrification. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each model to determine which one emerges victorious in the battle for hybrid SUV supremacy.

Powertrains: Electrified Efficiency

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Outlander PHEV boasts a sophisticated powertrain that combines a 2.4-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This setup enables the SUV to operate in three modes:

• EV Mode: The Outlander PHEV can travel solely on electric power for up to 24 miles, making it ideal for short commutes and errands.
• Hybrid Mode: When the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in to provide additional power while the electric motors assist for improved efficiency.
• Power Mode: This mode maximizes performance by combining the power of the gasoline engine and electric motors for enhanced acceleration and passing power.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid also employs a hybrid powertrain, featuring a 2.5-liter gasoline engine, two electric motors, and an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Its operating modes are similar to the Outlander PHEV:

• EV Mode: The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid can operate solely on electric power for up to 42 miles, offering a longer range for emissions-free driving.
• Hybrid Mode: When the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine takes over while the electric motors supplement power for improved fuel efficiency.
• Sport Mode: This mode prioritizes performance by optimizing the power delivery from the gasoline engine and electric motors.

Fuel Economy and Emissions

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Outlander PHEV’s impressive fuel economy is one of its key selling points. It achieves an EPA-estimated 74 MPGe combined when operating in hybrid mode. When driven solely on electricity, the Outlander PHEV consumes no fuel, resulting in zero emissions.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid also delivers impressive fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 94 MPGe combined in hybrid mode. Its extended electric range of up to 42 miles allows for significant fuel savings during daily commutes. However, when the battery is depleted, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s fuel economy decreases to 41 mpg, which is lower than the Outlander PHEV’s hybrid mode efficiency.

Charging Capabilities

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Outlander PHEV offers two charging options:

• Level 1 (120V): Using a standard household outlet, the battery can be fully charged in approximately 8 hours.
• Level 2 (240V): With a dedicated charging station, the battery can be fully charged in about 4 hours.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid also provides two charging options:

• Level 1 (120V): Using a standard household outlet, the battery can be fully charged in approximately 12 hours.
• Level 2 (240V): With a dedicated charging station, the battery can be fully charged in about 6 hours.

Interior and Technology

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Outlander PHEV‘s interior is spacious and well-equipped, offering seating for up to seven passengers. Its infotainment system features a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium Bose sound system.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s interior is also spacious and comfortable, with seating for up to five passengers. Its infotainment system includes a 10.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a JBL sound system.

Safety Features

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Outlander PHEV comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning with lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid also offers a wide range of safety features, such as:

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
• Lane departure alert with steering assist
• Automatic high beams
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise control

Price and Availability

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is available in four trim levels: SE, SEL, LE, and GT. Prices start at $36,990 for the base SE trim and range up to $46,990 for the fully loaded GT trim.

Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is offered in three trim levels: XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited. Prices start at $43,225 for the base XLE trim and go up to $49,485 for the top-of-the-line Limited trim.

The Verdict: A Close Match with Distinct Advantages

In this comprehensive comparison, both the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid have proven to be formidable contenders in the electrified SUV segment. While the Outlander PHEV offers superior fuel economy and a lower price point, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasts a longer electric range and a more comprehensive infotainment system.

Ultimately, the choice between these two excellent SUVs depends on your specific priorities. If fuel efficiency and affordability are your top concerns, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is an excellent option. However, if you prioritize electric range and advanced technology, the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is a compelling choice.

Popular Questions

1. Which SUV has a longer electric range?

The Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid has a longer electric range of up to 42 miles, compared to the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV‘s 24 miles.

2. Which SUV is more fuel-efficient in hybrid mode?

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has better fuel economy in hybrid mode, achieving 74 MPGe compared to the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s 41 mpg.

3. Which SUV has a lower starting price?

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a lower starting price of $36,990, while the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid starts at $43,225.