The electric-only driving capability of the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) has now been officially confirmed for the Australian market. Mitsubishi Motors Australia has revealed that the upcoming model will deliver an electric-only driving range of 103 kilometres under the older NEDC testing standard. This improvement is largely due to the introduction of a larger 22.7kWh lithium-ion battery, compared with the outgoing model’s 20kWh unit, which provided an NEDC-rated 84km. The increased capacity allows the new Outlander PHEV to outperform several key competitors, including the BYD Sealion 6 Premium AWD with its 81km claim, the GWM Haval H6 PHEV AWD offering 100km, and the Mazda CX-60 P50e AWD at 76km.
Under the more modern and realistic WLTP test procedure, the 2026 Outlander PHEV is rated at 86 kilometres of pure electric range. This figure provides a better reflection of real-world performance, where driving style, climate, and terrain can all influence results. As reported earlier, Mitsubishi’s refreshed Outlander PHEV is scheduled to arrive in Australian showrooms in January 2026, a slight delay from the previous expectation that it would launch before the end of this year.
Mitsubishi has confirmed that the latest Outlander PHEV will continue to be offered in the familiar ES, Aspire, Exceed, and Exceed Tourer variants. However, one notable change is the temporary discontinuation of the flagship GSR grade. Known for its black exterior styling enhancements and positioned above the Exceed Tourer, the GSR will be absent at launch but may return later. Mitsubishi has not ruled out the possibility of reintroducing it, pointing out that the previous generation’s GSR also arrived around 18 months after other trims.
The 2026 model brings several technology and feature upgrades across the range. The entry-level ES gains a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display, an upgraded eight-speaker Yamaha audio system, Mitsubishi Connected Services, a driver-monitoring camera, a frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a 360-degree camera. These additions mark a significant jump in standard equipment compared to the outgoing model.
The Aspire variant introduces a major practical improvement: a seven-seat layout, replacing the previous five-seat configuration. It also inherits features previously exclusive to the higher trims, such as a heated steering wheel, lane-keep assist, and traffic-jam assist, making it a more attractive mid-tier option.
At the top end of the range, the Exceed and Exceed Tourer versions receive ventilated front seats, a digital rear-view mirror, and aluminum pedal covers. Interior materials vary by grade, with the Exceed offering black or grey leather, while the Exceed Tourer is distinguished by premium brick-brown semi-aniline leather. Additionally, the Exceed Tourer upgrades the audio experience with a 12-speaker Yamaha Ultimate sound system, replacing the nine-speaker Bose unit found in the current model.
More detailed Australian pricing and full specifications for the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will be announced closer to its launch date, as Mitsubishi prepares to introduce one of its most significant electrified models yet.