Latest news with #plugInHybrid
Car and Driver
19 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
Mercedes-AMG to Drop Four-Cylinder for Inline-Sixes and V-8s
Mercedes-AMG is preparing to phase out the plug-in hybrid powertrain that uses the M139 2.0-liter inline-four engine. Acknowledging that the four-cylinder "failed to resonate" with customers, the automaker's performance division will move forward with inline-six and V-8 engines. The four-cylinder PHEV setup is currently found in the C63 sedan and the GLC63 crossover, but has faced criticism from fans of the V-8 engines found in previous iterations of these AMG models. Mercedes-AMG is transitioning away from the four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain and back towards the inline-six and V-8 powertrains more traditionally associated with the brand. That isn't to say that AMG had a change of heart concerning the merits of the four-cylinder powertrain, but rather that the automaker is responding to customer criticisms. "Technically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. It's also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We've recognized that," a source at Mercedes told Autocar. The report says that the 671-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain will be phased out of the current C63 and GLC63 models, and that the M139 turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine could also be dropped from other AMG models such as the SL43 in favor of an inline-six. We also know that AMG is moving forward with a new-generation V-8 engine, which will be used in 48-volt hybrid and plug-in hybrid applications. C/D also spoke with AMG chief Michael Schiebe at the reveal of the AMG GT XX electric concept car. Although Schiebe would not confirm the demise of the four-cylinder hybrid setup, when asked about this powertrain he said, "we need to cater to the demands of customers." He emphasized a "two pillar" strategy for AMG going forward, including the continuation of combustion engines such as the new V-8 and the new electric platform called that will underpin the production version of the XX concept sports sedan and an electric SUV variant to follow. AMG Hybrids Are Here to Stay Although the four-cylinder may be on its way out, Schiebe did say AMG remains committed to plug-in hybrids. "There are a lot of advantages of combining electric motors with combustion engines," Schiebe said. "We want to offer different kinds of drivetrain opportunities on the combustion side to our customers, so they can choose for whatever purpose they want to use the car." Mercedes-AMG M139 four-cylinder in the AMG C63 S E Performance Much of the criticism of the C63 and GLC63's powertrain was focused on the lackluster sound when compared with the symphony of a V-8. The M139 drew our ire for sounding "reedy" and "buzzy" in our test of the current C63. The C63's hybrid system also brings the car's curb weight up to nearly 5000 pounds, meaning it didn't provide a meaningful performance boost over its V-8 predecessor despite offering significantly more horsepower. Not long after the debut of the C63, which arrived in the U.S. for the 2024 model year, there were murmurs about the V-8 returning to this model as soon as 2026. AMG wouldn't confirm exactly when the four-cylinder will be phased out, telling Autocar that it will remain in production for the time being before "eventually" being replaced. Jack Fitzgerald Associate News Editor Jack Fitzgerald's love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn't afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. Read full bio Joey Capparella Deputy Editor, Rankings Content Despite being raised on a steady diet of base-model Hondas and Toyotas—or perhaps because of it—Joey Capparella nonetheless cultivated an obsession for the automotive industry throughout his childhood in Nashville, Tennessee. He found a way to write about cars for the school newspaper during his college years at Rice University, which eventually led him to move to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for his first professional auto-writing gig at Automobile Magazine. He has been part of the Car and Driver team since 2016 and now lives in New York City. Read full bio
Forbes
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Forbes
Test-Driving The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV
Ford Ranger PHEV Ford Ranger PHEV: Iceland. As its 'Land of Fire and Ice' moniker suggests, the Nordic island is steeped in mystery and packed with geological wonder. Its lunar landscape would have you question whether you've accidentally booked a NASA moon trip instead of an Icelandair Boeing 737. It's out of this world. Whenever my family and I go back, we always try to do something completely different. Thus, I was buzzing when my recent trip involved traversing Iceland's remarkable plains, and the odd volcano, in a luxurious moon buggy known as the Ford Ranger PHEV. But before diving into the car and adventure, it's worth noting that Ford has no plans to introduce this to America. Ford Ranger PHEV in Iceland Ford Ranger PHEV Facts And Figures I've driven every Ranger, including the full-fat Raptor, something that secured its place in my dream garage since. Each variant is capable, and Ford has diversified the Ranger lineup to include performance guises (like the previously mentioned Raptor) and luxury family haulers (the Wildtrak and Platinum). And the cherry on the Bakewell tart is the latest plug-in hybrid version. Ford Ranger's were offered in 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre form until now. The PHEV's 2.3-litre petrol engine is mated to a 75kW (100 bhp) electric motor, a 11.8kWh battery pack that sits under the load bed and a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Ford Ranger PHEV in Iceland It produces a mighty 277 bhp and 514lb ft, numbers that don't fall far from the Raptor tree. However, don't expect it to move like the small dromaeosaurid dinosaur-named pick-up, as 0-to-62 mph takes 9.2 seconds—just 0.5 seconds faster than its diesel counterpart. Likewise, its 25.5-mile electric range is hardly inspiring, but the resulting 70-72g/km means lower benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax, an important factor as double-cab pick-ups are now classed as cars in the UK. Driving The Ford Ranger PHEV Our 200km route began at Reykjavik. Through its busy streets, the Ford Ranger PHEV emitted a gentle hum at low speeds and easily handled deep road ruts and drain covers with little fuss. When out of town, its 2.3-litre powerplant quickly kicked in while en route to 56 mph (90 kph). Again, it remained humble and arrived at that speed swiftly as the 10-speed 'box swapped cogs as smoothly as the lava that likely flowed beneath us. It'll also hustle along twisty tarmac at a respectable pace in Sport mode without making your passengers feel sick. A swift detour off the high-speed tarmac onto loose gravel caused a fair bit of shudder, forcing us to reduce our speed slightly. But this is a workhorse, not a Dakar Rally machine. Ford Ranger PHEV As we approached our first river crossing, we locked the diffs and selected Slippery from the array of drive modes; this car has an 800mm wade depth, but we still feared we'd be left bobbing around like a rubber duck in one of the 26 river crossings awaiting us. Thanks to the Terrain Management system and multiple four-wheel drive controls, however, the Ranger PHEV effortlessly swam like an amphibian. With each river crossing came further challenges, like sharper rocks, steeper declines and inclines, and not once did it break a sweat. Ford Ranger PHEV But the acid test was mighty. This was a trial that would surely force many SUVs and pick-ups to tinkle a puddle of oil in fear—a steep volcano climb. Engaging the Ford Ranger PHEV's low-range setting forced the previously smooth gearbox to show its clunkier traits. But with gentle throttle input, it effortlessly ascended without any wheel slip despite the loose volcanic terrain beneath it—the digital instrument cluster showing a 26-degree pitch. Descending was just as simple: Engage hill descent via the 12.0-inch touchscreen, and you're off—slowly. Yes, you could bark at its woeful electric range, and the £4k price hike versus the diesel, but the benefits out way the negatives, in my mighty impressive, but should you have it over a diesel? There's no denying the diesel will do the same steep ascent party trick. But the major benefits come from tax savings. You get that little bit of extra oomph, and peace of mind that you're doing your bit for the Polar bears. Ford Ranger PHEV Verdict The Ford Ranger PHEV will still tow 3.5 tonnes and carry a 1.0-tonne payload capacity. And like other commercial Ford products, it features the brand's nifty Pro Power system, which means three plug sockets—one in the cab, two in the load box— that can provide silent power for tools and, well, anything. Ford Ranger PHEV Yes, you could bark at its woeful electric range, and the £4k price hike versus the diesel (£32,150 excl. VAT), but the benefits out way the negatives, in my opinion. It's a can-do vehicle, regardless of whether you're taking the kids to school, towing a jet ski or traversing a mountain, and it could be the best Ford Ranger yet.
Car and Driver
16-06-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Lincoln Corsair Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview Lincoln's most fuel-efficient offering is the 2026 Corsair Hybrid, which takes the standard Corsair model, juices it up with a little more power, and adds a plug. The plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a four-cylinder gas engine with two electric motors for a total of 266 horsepower. Performance and handling aren't anything to celebrate here, but the Lincoln's well-cushioned ride will win favor with drivers who prioritize comfort. The Corsair Hybrid's onboard battery pack holds enough juice for up to 27 miles of electric range, but extracting that many miles requires careful driving. It's better to just drive the Corsair Hybrid casually and enjoy the comfortable seats, which can be optioned as 24-way power-adjustable thrones with massage. What's New for 2026? Lincoln has made no changes to the Corsair Hybrid for 2026. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Lincoln Corsair Hybrid is expected to start around $56,000. Grand Touring $56,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k $90k The Corsair Grand Touring hybrid is only available in a single trim. It is positioned at the top of the lineup and comes well-equipped, so we'd take it easy with options. The Collection II bundle adds some additional luxuries that elevate the experience, including a heated steering wheel, hands-free liftgate, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a wireless charging pad, so we'd add that and call it a day. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with two electric motors for a total system output of 266 horsepower; that's 16 horses more than you get from the Corsair's standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four. Power from the gas engine is delivered through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive comes standard. While the Corsair Grand Touring is adequately quick for day-to-day driving, rival PHEV crossovers are quicker. The GT exhibits similar road manners to the nonhybrid, complete with a pillowy ride and uninspired steering feel. 0–60-MPH Times At our test track, the PHEV model managed to reach 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which is just 0.1 second behind the nonhybrid model. View Exterior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver More on the Corsair Hybrid SUV Test: 2025 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring Plugs In Towing and Payload Capacity The Corsair Hybrid is rated to tow up to 2000 pounds. That's less than the nonhybrid model, which can tow up to 3000 pounds. Range, Charging, and Battery Life Thanks to its 14.4-kWh battery, the Corsair Grand Touring can travel up to 27 miles on electric power alone—as long as you go easy on the right pedal. Prod it too hard in EV mode, and the gas engine will fire up for assistance. In our real-world 75-mph highway range test, we achieved 19 miles on a full charge. By toggling to the Preserve EV mode, the GT uses the gas power plant and regenerative braking to maintain the battery's charge for later use. When the pack is depleted, Lincoln says it takes about 10 to 11 hours to recharge via a standard 110-volt outlet and three to four hours from a 240-volt outlet. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Corsair Hybrid yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings of 34 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. In our real-world 75-mph highway fuel economy test, we achieved 53 MPGe in EV mode and 31 mpg in hybrid mode. That puts the Corsair Grand Touring squarely mid-pack among its peers, including the more efficient Lexus NX450h+ and less efficient Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge. MPGe stands for miles per gallon of gas equivalent, an EPA metric that estimates PHEV and EV vehicle fuel efficiency. For more information about the Corsair Grand Touring's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Corsair boasts a handsome cabin that's similar to those in other SUV offerings from Lincoln, such as the Navigator, Nautilus, and Aviator. It's upholstered in soft leather and offers plenty of features. Adjustable ambient lighting, 24-way power-adjustable seats, a head-up display, and an app that allows users to unlock, lock, and start the vehicle with their smartphone are all available—although ordering such items will add a princely sum to the bottom line. Surprisingly, Lincoln says a top-spec Black Label model of the Corsair is not in the cards. The Corsair's cargo bay is generously sized. We managed to fit eight carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats. Lowering the rear seatbacks opens up enough room for 21 cases in total. View Interior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity A 13.2-inch infotainment display running Lincoln's most up-to-date software is standard, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display also comes on every model. Although there is a bit of a learning curve, the interface is easy to use, with joysticks on the steering wheel and voice-activated navigation helping the driver avoid reaching for the screen too often. The Grand Touring features a standard Revel 14-speaker audio system that comes with SiriusXM along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The Corsair hybrid comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features that Lincoln calls Co-Pilot360, but unlocking high-tech assists such as a self-parking feature or a hands-free driving mode called BlueCruise requires springing for an option package. For more information about the Corsair hybrid's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Standard adaptive cruise control Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Lincoln's standard powertrain warranty is more generous than its German rivals. Buyers of nonhybrid Black Label models are treated to a four-year/50,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan, but because the Corsair isn't offered in the Black Label trim, its buyers will have to go out of pocket for all oil changes, tire rotations, and the like. Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles Hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2025 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring AWD Vehicle Type: front-engine, front- and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE Base/As Tested: $55,860/$68,820 POWERTRAIN DOHC 16-valve 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4, 163 hp, 155 lb-ft + 2 AC motors, 129 and 67 hp, 173 and 111 lb-ft (combined output: 266 hp; 11-kWh [C/D est] lithium-ion battery pack; 3.3-kW onboard charger) Transmissions, F/R: continuously variable automatic/direct-drive CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 12.1-in vented disc/11.9-in vented disc Continental CrossContact LX Sport 245/45R-20 99V M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 106.7 in Length: 181.4 in Width: 76.4 in Height: 63.8 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/46 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 56/27 ft3 Curb Weight: 4542 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 6.2 sec 100 mph: 16.5 sec 1/4-Mile: 14.8 sec @ 95 mph 120 mph: 26.7 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 6.3 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 4.2 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 121 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 160 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.83 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 28 MPGe 75-mph Highway Driving, EV/Hybrid Mode: 53 MPGe/31 mpg 75-mph Highway Range, EV/Hybrid mode: 19/340 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway, Gasoline: 33/32/34 mpg Combined, Gasoline + Electricity: 76 MPGe EV Range: 27 mi C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Motor Trend
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
2026 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims
The 2026 Tucson Plug-In Hybrid is the fanciest and most capable version of Hyundai's small crossover. This flagship Tucson only makes sense if it's regularly plugged in and driven on electric power, though . Other plug-in hybrid compact SUV rivals include the Kia Sportage PHEV, Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, and Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid. What's New We don't expect major changes to the 2026 Tucson PHEV after a big 2025. Last model year, the Hyundai scored styling and tech updates that consisted of a new center console and dash with curved screen display, larger touchscreen, standard wireless phone mirroring, and driver-adjustable regenerative braking. What We Think Although it's not for everyone, we appreciate the Tucson lineup's eye-catching, modern exterior design. Inside, the updated-for-2025 dashboard and center console continue to convey the cabin's modern, tech-focused feel. Upgrades from last year like a larger touchscreen and a newly available head-up display flesh out the theme. We like the Tucson plug-in hybrid overall, but its range doesn't come close to that of the Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid, a key disadvantage. The Tucson Plug-in Hybrid offers a driving experience that's competent and enjoyable, though it doesn't quite match the performance benchmarks set by some competitors. Standard all-wheel drive adds confidence with planted handling. The Tucson PHEV is a well-rounded option with strong value and a spacious cabin, but iwe strongly suggest considering the Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, as well. MotorTrend Tested The Tucson Plug-in Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbo-four and six-speed automatic transmission with an integrated electric motor, akin to the Tucson Hybrid. Unlike the standard hybrid, the PHEV gets a larger-capacity 13.8-kWh battery (instead of the Hybrid's 1.49-kWh battery) and charge port. Powertrain output is rated at 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and these Tucson variants are offered only with all-wheel drive. We launched a same-generation 2022 Limited model to 60 mph in as little as 7.1 seconds, making the PHEV the quickest Tucson, 0.7 second quicker than the hybrid and 2.2 seconds quicker than the gas version. It has some ground to make up to catch the more powerful RAV4 PHEV, however, which can cover the same ground in under six seconds. MPGs, Range, and Charging The mechanically identical 2025 Tucson Plug-In Hybrid rgets 32 miles of all-electric range. This year's ratings should be similar. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV comes in at 42 while Toyota promises 50 on the new 2026 model. The Hyundai Tucson PHEV can be charged using Level 1 or Level 2 charging. Level 1 charging takes about six hours to fully charge the battery, while Level 2 charging—which is the type of connection some install in their garages—can reduce that time to around two hours. Safety Features Entry-level models feature a generous amount of content, including: Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction detection Blind-spot monitoring Driver focus monitoring Lane keeping Rear cross-traffic monitoring Adaptive cruise control A rear-seat occupant reminder The remaining driver assists are standard with the top trim. Those include navigation-based cruise control, a blind-spot monitor view, rear automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, and surround-view monitor. A Highway Driving Assist self-driving system is also unlocked with the highest grade. Cargo Space and Interior Room Rear legroom compares favorably to other five-passenger plug-in hybrid compact SUVs like the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid and Outlander Hybrid. There's more cargo capacity in the Toyota, though. The 2025 RAV4 represents the last of the previous model; a new RAV4 with a similar interior makes its debut for 2026. Technology Every Tucson PHEV features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, a wireless phone charger, and a foursome of USB ports, two front and two rear. A 12.3-inch touchscreen and heated front seats come with the base model; the upgrade unlocks ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a 12.3-inch driver display. Bose premium audio, a fingerprint scanner, and heated steering wheel also come with the top model. Top-Ranked Competitors: Toyota RAV4 PHEV Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
Motor Trend
07-06-2025
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims
Mitsubishi's only electrified model is the Outlander Hybrid, which is a three-row plug-in hybrid SUV with all-electric driving range. The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid arrives with the same updates the gas-only Outlander got for 2025. Anticipated changes include tweaks to the SUV's styling, interior, and equipment list. Rivals to the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid include other plug-in hybrid SUVs like the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, and Ford Escape. What's New The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid enters the new model year with the same changes applied to the gas-only model for 2025. Updates should include: Subtly updated exterior styling A redesigned center console with a larger wireless charging pad A Yamaha premium audio system A 12.3-inch screen for the driver and infotainment displays Driving chops should improve with a recalibrated suspension and steering. Also, to provide a more premium experience, Mitsubishi is expected to add additional sound deadening. What We Think If you're considering a 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander, the hybrid variant makes a case for itself as the best pick of the range. The SUV's plug-in hybrid powertrain provide gas-free driving range, and the extra power improves acceleration. Additionally, the lack of a full one-pedal driving mode limits the SUV's viability as a part-time EV. The Outlander Hybrid's cabin is generally well executed. First- and second-row seating is spacious. Cargo volume is generous. There's lots of tech on hand, with two user-friendly touchscreen options providing easy access to the Outlander's features. Although the Outlander Hybrid has a third row, the rear seats are too cramped for anyone other than children or smaller adults. Squeezing behind the second row can be tough, as well; there's hardly an opening for your legs to pass through while climbing into the back. As one of Mitsubishi's stronger products in recent years, the Outlander Hybrid also benefits from the automaker's excellent warranty and two years of free maintenance. It may not be the flashiest plug-in hybrid SUV or have as much range as the segment-leading Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, but the Outlander Hybrid is a legitimate contender in its segment. MotorTrend Testing The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid carries over with the same powertrain offered for 2025. That means the plug-in hybrid SUV will continue to have a combined 248 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque from a 2.4-liter inline-four paired with two electric motors. AWD is standard. The PHEV version of Mitsubishi's compact SUV is much quicker than the gas-only model, requiring just 6.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph rather than the standard Outlander's time of 8.6 seconds. This is a difference you'll feel on the road. EV Range and Charging Should Mitsubishi continue to outfit the Outlander Hybrid with a 20.0-kWh battery pack, we expect an all-electric range of 38 miles before the gas engine kicks in. That's pretty good, beating the 2025 Kia Sportage and Ford Escape plug-in hybrids, but is outdone by the Toyota RAV4 Plug-In. The 2026 Sportage may also match the Mitsubishi in electric range. Using CHAdeMO fast charging, the battery can be charged from empty to 80 percent in 38 minutes. Finding a charger that runs on CHAdeMO instead of the more common CCS or Tesla-based NACS standards may be a challenge, but most will stick with slower Level 2 charging. Using a 240V outlet takes 6.5 hours for a full charge, while a simple 120V outlet can yield a full charge in 16 hours. Range totals 420 miles using both gasoline and electric power. Mitsubishi's Generous Warranty Not only is the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid a solid option in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, it's expected to continue to be sold with a strong warranty. The Mitsubishi Motors Confidence warranties include: A 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty A five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty A seven-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty There's also a two-year/30,000 limited maintenance program with complimentary service. If something goes wrong while you're driving, Mitsubishi includes a five-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance program. Safety Features All versions of the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid come equipped with the Mi-Pilot Assist suite of active driver assistance features. Standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Front and rear automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, a driver focus warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic monitoring are available. Cargo Space and Interior Room Although there's plenty of space for people in the first and second rows, the third row offers insufficient legroom for adults. The rear seats fold away, however, opening up a voluminous cargo area. Technology The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid is expected to come equipped with a generous list of standard technology features. Entry-level models should receive a 12.3-inch driver display, push-button start, front USB ports, and an updated 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims should continue to offer a wireless phone charger, heated front seats, a hands-free power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, and a 360-degree camera. The SEL trim bundles even more desirable features such as reverse auto-tilting side mirrors, a memory system for the driver, and heated rear seats. Other available tech includes heated rear seats, massaging front seats, a head-up display, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and Bose nine-speaker premium audio. Tech isn't just about screen size, and with the Outlander Hybrid, we appreciate that the on-screen menus are straightforward and easy to navigate. Value Recommended Trim We suspect Mitsubishi will continue to offer the Outlander Hybrid in ES, SE, SEL, SEL Black Edition, and Platinum Edition trims for the 2026 model year. The SE model should continue to be the sweet spot for 2026. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, several drive modes, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, as well as LED headlights and taillights. Other Small Plug-in Hybrid SUVs: Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
