There are few noteworthy changes coming for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander. This SUV is going to use similar design language as the Nissan Rogue. Well, these two companies are cooperating more recently. We can already see results in other segments, but now it is turn for a compact crossover. Although it belongs to a small segment, the Outlander 2020 will offer a seven-seat layout as the optional configuration. All in all, if you are waiting for cosmetic changes on the SUV, it will be worthy.
On the other hand, a mechanical update is even more important. The new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is already confirmed. We still don’t know precise numbers, but the crossover is improving fuel economy and emission rating. Some say that the plug-in system will be so powerful so the Outlander could go 60 miles by using only electric power. That is two times more than the current Outlander PHEV can do. Significant upgrades will lead to other changes inside the cabin.
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Specs and Rivals
A plug-in hybrid version of the compact crossover is on the market since 2013. Mitsubishi is doing well with development and sales of the PHEV model. But, now it is time for an upgrade. Currently, the system combines a 2.0-liter petrol engine and twin AC electric units. The output is good for 120 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque. The range for the existing Outlander PHEV is 22 miles.
The next gen of the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid could triple these figures. The base of the system remains a 2.0-l unit. Stronger electric support will make the SUV go 50-60 miles by using electric power only. Also, boosts of the power and torque are expected. Further upgrades will make the batteries charge faster. By using standard outlets, Outlander needed eight hours. The next edition will need 20 percent less time.
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will rival the new BMW X5 plug-in hybrid in Europe. The German carmaker plans to bring this system to its smaller SUVs in the US. However, the luxury brand will be more expensive than the Outlander. Mitsubishi is also following news about the upcoming Mini Countryman S E All4 PHEV. It already has the range over 40 miles. Still, this is a smaller vehicle.
Gasoline Drivetrains
Standard offer for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander will include a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Compact crossover can count on 165 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard. A CVT automatic gearbox can also send power to all wheels. Towing capacity for both FWD and AWD models is 1,500 pounds.
If you want more of everything, then 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander GT will be the right choice. A 3.0-liter V6 engine is good for 225 hp and 215 lb-ft of twisting power. Increased energy leads to higher towing capacity. The GT model can haul 3,500 pounds. Also, this version is using a six-speed automatic transmission, not the CVT. Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system is the only option for the Outlander GT crossover. Of course, a larger engine and AWD are consuming more fuel, so this is a less efficient variant of the compact SUV.
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Changes – Nissan Rogue Platform
These rumors actually make sense. The next 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander will suffer a big redesign. Current generation dates from 2013. Mitsubishi is extending partnership with Nissan in every field, so we could see some similarities in the compact crossover SUV class. What’s more, Outlander and Nissan Rogue have the same size (Rogue is 2 inches shorter, but uses 1.5-inch longer wheelbase). Also, Nissan’s crossover is also ready for the big update. So, two vehicles are about to share the same process of refreshing their looks and engine range.
Interior, Colors
We are not sure what kind of changes the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is bringing. However, fans can expect a heavy update of the interior and couple of new colors outside the crossover. Currently, the entire lineup is offering a palette with six paintjobs and optional Pearl White which costs $300. We could see 2020 Outlander in yellow or green. Interior is either beige or black, and depending on a trim level, it will be cloth or leather inside the cabin. Models will be the same, with ES as the entry-level, SE, LE, and SEL as the mid-range, and GT as the top of the class unit.
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a subcompact crossover that has nothing in common with the standard Outlander. Well, it has the same name, and there is nothing more beyond it. The crossover belongs to a smaller class, and it is available outside the US as the Mitsubishi RVR or Mitsubishi ASX. Smaller engines are creating less power and the Outlander Sport does not offer a hybrid or the PHEV system.
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Release Date and Price
The main advantage of the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander will be its price. the base offer is going to land around $25,000 for the two-wheel drive ES model. The AWD adds $2,000. Each higher trim level adds another $1,000 to its predecessor’s price. The GT model will cost $35,000.
We will see the PHEV unit pretty soon. However, that could be the only update for the 2020 season. The partnership with Nissan and its Rogue could bring a new model in 2021. However, we expect the debut and the premiere in 2020. The new plug-in hybrid will appear by the end of this year.
