2026 Outlander PHEV Refresh Brings Quieter Cabin to Victoria's Scenic Routes
Driving along Vancouver Island's coastal highways—from the Malahat to the winding roads of Sooke—should be about the...
For the third consecutive year, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has claimed Canada's best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle crown. With 8,899 units sold in 2025, the Outlander PHEV continues to dominate a segment that many brands are only beginning to explore.
For drivers in Victoria, British Columbia—a region known for its environmental awareness and early adoption of electrified vehicles—this achievement reinforces Mitsubishi's role as the leader in plug-in hybrid technology.
Competitors are entering the PHEV market, but Mitsubishi has been refining its approach for years. The Outlander PHEV's three-year reign demonstrates that leadership demands proven technology, real-world capability, and a focus on delivering what Canadian families actually need.
Why the Outlander PHEV Continues to Lead
The Outlander PHEV's success is rooted in its ability to address the core concerns of plug-in hybrid buyers: electric range, all-wheel-drive capability, and practical versatility. The 2025 model delivers an estimated 61 kilometres of all-electric range from its 20 kWh lithium-ion battery, paired with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that eliminates range anxiety on longer journeys.
This dual-powertrain approach allows drivers to complete most daily commutes on electric power alone, while retaining the flexibility of gasoline for weekend trips to the Island's parks or ferry crossings to the mainland. The system automatically switches between three drive modes—EV, Series Hybrid, and Parallel Hybrid—optimizing efficiency based on driving conditions without requiring driver intervention.
Every Outlander PHEV comes standard with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), Mitsubishi's legendary all-wheel-drive system. Seven selectable drive modes—Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Snow, Gravel, Mud, and Power—allow the vehicle to adapt to British Columbia's diverse terrain, from urban streets to backcountry trails.
Three Years of Dominance: What It Means
The Outlander PHEV's three-year winning streak is notable. In 2023 and 2024, it outsold every other plug-in hybrid in Canada. In 2025, it maintained its leadership position.
This consistency reflects a vehicle that has earned the trust of Canadian families through proven performance, comprehensive warranty coverage (10-year/160,000 km powertrain and lithium-ion battery warranties), and a dealer network that understands the unique needs of PHEV owners.
For Victoria drivers, this track record matters. The city's infrastructure for electric vehicle charging is well-developed, and the Outlander PHEV's DC Quick Charge capability allows the battery to reach 80% capacity in approximately 38 minutes. Level 2 charging takes about 6.5 hours, while a standard 120V outlet requires approximately 16 hours—ideal for overnight charging at home.
Practical Versatility for Island Living
Beyond its powertrain, the Outlander PHEV offers the utility that families in Victoria require. Seven-passenger seating accommodates carpools, sports teams, or extended family outings. The 40-20-40 split second-row seats and third-row seating provide up to 1,832 litres of cargo space behind the front seats when folded.
Towing capacity reaches 680 kg (1,500 lbs), enough for a small trailer or pair of personal watercraft. The standard 1,500-watt power supply provides two 120-volt household outlets, useful for camping trips or outdoor activities.
The twin electric motors—114 horsepower at the front and 134 horsepower at the rear—deliver 248 horsepower combined. This configuration provides smooth, immediate acceleration while maintaining a quiet cabin during electric-only operation.
Key Specifications
|
Specification |
Value |
|
Powertrain |
2.4 L 4-cylinder engine + twin electric motors (248 hp combined) |
|
Battery |
20 kWh lithium-ion |
|
EV Range |
61 km (estimated) |
|
Fuel Efficiency |
3.6 Le/100 km combined (gas + electric) |
|
Seating |
7 passengers |
|
Cargo Volume |
1,832 L (behind front seats) |
|
Towing Capacity |
680 kg (1,500 lbs) |
Looking Ahead: 2026 Outlander PHEV Refresh
Mitsubishi is building on this success with a mid-cycle refresh for the 2026 Outlander PHEV, expected to debut in Q1 2026. The updated model will feature a larger-capacity battery for increased all-electric range, a redesigned interior with improved sound-deadening, and Canadian-industry-exclusive Dynamic Sound Yamaha audio systems.
Exterior updates include a revised grille, redesigned front and rear bumpers, new 18-inch and 20-inch wheel designs, and darker-tint rear taillights. Mechanically, steering and ride quality have been refined through extensive tuning of tyre specifications and suspension.
These updates demonstrate Mitsubishi's focus on continuous improvement. The brand's Momentum 2030 plan promises a new or significantly revised vehicle each year through 2030, with a new battery-electric vehicle scheduled for later this year.
Why Mitsubishi Leads the PHEV Segment
Mitsubishi's PHEV leadership is not accidental. The brand has been developing electric vehicle technology since 1970, giving it over five decades of experience in electrified powertrains. This heritage informs every aspect of the Outlander PHEV's design, from battery placement (beneath the cabin floor for optimal space and low centre of gravity) to the smooth integration of electric and gasoline power.
While other manufacturers are introducing their first plug-in hybrids, Mitsubishi is refining its third-generation system. This experience translates into real-world reliability, better efficiency, and a more refined driving experience.
For Victoria drivers evaluating plug-in hybrids, the Outlander PHEV's three-year sales leadership provides objective validation. It is the choice that thousands of Canadian families have made and continue to make.
Experience the PHEV Leader at Victoria Mitsubishi
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV's three-year reign as Canada's best-selling plug-in hybrid reflects more than strong sales numbers. It demonstrates a vehicle that delivers on its promises: genuine electric range for daily driving, all-wheel-drive capability for Canadian conditions, and the versatility that families require.
Visit our team at Victoria Mitsubishi to see why the Outlander PHEV continues to lead the segment.
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