2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL: A Practical Hybrid SUV With Impressive Efficiency
The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL is a plug-in hybrid SUV that continues to earn attention in the highly competitive crossover market. As one of the few hybrid options in its class that offers both an electric range and three rows of seating, it's positioned to attract eco-conscious families seeking versatility. But how does it actually perform in daily driving situations? Let’s dive deep into what makes this SUV stand out—and where it might fall short.
Overview of the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL
The 2024 Outlander PHEV blends the convenience of a gas engine with the efficiency of electric driving. Mitsubishi has refined this model year’s design while focusing on improving electric range, fuel economy, and overall driving experience.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with two electric motors
- Combined Power Output: 248 horsepower
- Battery Capacity: 20 kWh
- Electric Range: 38 miles (purely electric mode)
- Fuel Economy: 64 MPGe combined (MPG equivalent)
- Seats: Up to 7 passengers
- Starting MSRP: $46,000 (est)
What’s New for 2024?
The latest Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL comes with several updates compared to the 2023 model. The electric range has improved slightly thanks to a larger 20 kWh battery, and the overall driving experience is smoother due to refinements in the suspension and steering. The interior has also received upgrades, including higher-quality materials and more advanced tech, making the cabin feel modern and comfortable.
Exterior Design
The 2024 Outlander PHEV SEL boasts a bold and aggressive exterior design. From the front, the Dynamic Shield grille gives the vehicle a rugged look, while sleek LED headlights enhance its contemporary style. The side profile reveals sharp lines that give it a confident stance, complemented by standard 18-inch alloy wheels. Overall, it’s a stylish SUV that doesn’t compromise on function.
Color Options:
- Cosmic Blue
- Labrador Black
- Red Diamond
- Alloy Silver
- White Diamond (most popular)
Drawback: Some buyers may find the overall design a bit too conservative. If you’re seeking an SUV with a head-turning, ultra-sleek appearance, you might lean toward more daring models like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid or Toyota RAV4 Prime.
Interior Comfort and Features
The Outlander PHEV SEL offers a roomy cabin with space for up to seven passengers—something that’s not often seen in hybrid SUVs. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, while the second row provides ample legroom. The third row, however, is best suited for kids or shorter adults, as the space can feel cramped.
Standard Interior Features:
- 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- 9-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
Drawback: The third row could use more space for taller adults, and the overall cargo capacity (11.7 cubic feet behind the third row) is not the largest in the class. It may not meet the needs of families that frequently carry a lot of gear or luggage.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2024 Outlander PHEV SEL is packed with tech. The 9-inch infotainment touchscreen is responsive and user-friendly, and the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto makes smartphone integration seamless. A 10-speaker Bose audio system comes standard, offering excellent sound quality.
For drivers who like to stay connected, the Mitsubishi Connect app allows remote access to the vehicle’s functions. You can lock/unlock the doors, monitor battery levels, and even pre-condition the cabin temperature—all from your smartphone.
Drawback: While the infotainment system is generally good, it doesn’t quite match the sleek interfaces found in some competitors like Mazda’s CX-90 or the Kia Sorento PHEV. The system occasionally experiences lag, which could be frustrating for tech-savvy users.
Performance and Driving Experience
Electric Mode & Hybrid Performance
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL shines when it comes to electric driving. With an estimated 38 miles of all-electric range, many daily commutes can be done without touching a drop of gasoline. Once the battery is depleted, the 2.4-liter gasoline engine kicks in seamlessly, and the combined output of 248 horsepower offers sufficient power for most driving conditions.
On the highway, the SUV feels stable and composed, and Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system provides excellent traction in slippery conditions.
Driving Modes:
- EV Mode: Prioritizes electric power
- Save Mode: Saves battery for later use
- Charge Mode: Recharges the battery using the gas engine
- Normal Mode: Automatically selects the best combination of gas and electric power
Drawback: While the Outlander PHEV SEL is great for city driving and short commutes, the transition between electric and gas power is not always as smooth as some competitors. There can be a slight hesitation when the gas engine kicks in, which might feel unsettling to some drivers.
Charging Options
Charging the Outlander PHEV is relatively convenient, especially with the vehicle’s DC fast-charging capability, a feature not commonly found in plug-in hybrids. With a DC fast charger, the battery can go from 0% to 80% in around 38 minutes. For home charging, a standard 240V Level 2 charger will fully charge the battery in about 4 hours.
Drawback: While fast charging is available, not every area has easy access to fast-charging stations. Plus, some rivals, such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime, offer a faster home charging time (around 2.5 hours).
Safety Features
Mitsubishi has outfitted the 2024 Outlander PHEV SEL with a robust suite of safety features to provide peace of mind. Standard equipment includes:
- Forward Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind Spot Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
For families, the SEL also includes Mitsubishi’s MI-PILOT Assist, a system that combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology. It’s especially useful on long highway drives as it reduces driver fatigue by helping the SUV maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and stay centered in its lane.
Drawback: While the safety features are comprehensive, the lane-keeping assist system can sometimes feel intrusive, and it may not be as refined as similar systems offered by Honda or Subaru. Some drivers report that the system nudges the steering wheel more frequently than they’d like.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
One of the main attractions of the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL is its excellent fuel economy. With a combined rating of 64 MPGe, this plug-in hybrid allows drivers to save on fuel costs, especially those who can maximize electric driving. In hybrid mode, the SUV delivers around 26 MPG, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size.
Drawback: While the MPGe rating is impressive, the real-world numbers may vary depending on your driving habits and charging frequency. Some users may experience slightly lower efficiency in cold weather, which can affect the battery’s range.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2024 Outlander PHEV comes in several trims, with the SEL being the mid-range option. Here’s a quick look at the different trim levels:
- Outlander PHEV ES (base trim) – Includes basic features with fewer tech and safety options
- Outlander PHEV SE – Adds more tech features and a few extra luxury touches
- Outlander PHEV SEL – Balances luxury and tech while maintaining a reasonable price
- Outlander PHEV SEL Touring – Includes a panoramic sunroof and leather seating
- Outlander PHEV GT (top trim) – Fully loaded with every available option
For those looking to get the most out of their budget, the SEL trim offers a good mix of features without jumping into the price range of the GT model. At around $46,000, the SEL provides a balance between luxury, tech, and affordability.
Drawback: While the Outlander PHEV SEL offers excellent value, it is slightly more expensive than some rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Prime or Ford Escape PHEV. For budget-conscious buyers, the higher starting price might be a sticking point.
Final Thoughts from an Owner
Alex Collantes, a proud owner of the 2024 Outlander PHEV SEL, shares his thoughts: “I’ve been driving it for a few months now, and the electric range is fantastic for my daily commute. I rarely have to use gas, which is a huge plus for me. The interior feels premium, and I love the tech features, but the third row is a bit tight for taller passengers. All in all, I’m very satisfied with it, especially with the all-wheel drive—it gives me confidence in winter driving.”