As parents of a teenager entrenched in the world of volleyball, our family road trips have become an integral part of our lives. Recently, we embarked on a journey from Atlanta to Huntsville, Alabama, for a volleyball tournament, a seemingly routine endeavor for many families. Little did we know that the ride itself would become a testament to the evolving landscape of automotive technology, with the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) leading the way.
Photo credit Daryl Killian Our adventure commenced at night, the perfect scenario for putting the semi-autonomous driving technology of the Outlander PHEV to the test. Packed with safety features like Automatic High beams, Forward Collision Mitigation, Driver Attention Alert, and MI-Pilot Assist , the vehicle made our late-night interstate drive to Alabama not only smooth but also considerably less taxing on both the mind and body. As parents, the well-being of our family is paramount, and the Outlander PHEV's commitment to safety, evidenced by its IIHS' Top Safety Pick+ designation, provided the peace of mind we needed for our nocturnal journey.
The interstate drive to Huntsville was just the beginning, though. Little did we anticipate the mountainous roads awaiting our return trip. Surprisingly, the Outlander PHEV proved to be a versatile companion, effortlessly handling the diverse, dark, curvy, mountainous roads with poise. This adaptability speaks volumes about the engineering behind the Outlander, making it a suitable choice for families seeking comfort and performance.
While the Outlander PHEV has seamlessly blended safety, efficiency, and style into our road trip, a subtle but notable concern arose when considering the third-row seating. Let's affectionately call it the "just in case third row," a space that, in our case, could be the go-to for friends joining our daughter on spontaneous outings. It's a feature we appreciate for its flexibility, but it does come with a caveat.
Photo credit Daryl Killian The "just in case third row" could use a bit more room. It's cozy, and by cozy, I mean snug. Now, don't get me wrong; we aren't expecting a sprawling, luxurious backseat in a vehicle that offers so much in terms of hybrid technology and efficiency. However, a little extra space back there would go a long way, especially during those extended road trips where every inch counts.
The lack of sufficient legroom in the third row is a minor gripe in an otherwise well-thought-out vehicle. Families like ours often find themselves juggling carpool duties and accommodating unexpected passengers. A bit more room in the "just in case third row" would undoubtedly enhance the overall comfort and versatility of the Outlander PHEV, making it an even more family-friendly option.
This minor drawback doesn't overshadow the Outlander PHEV's numerous merits in the grand scheme. It's merely a friendly nudge from a family that appreciates the vehicle but wouldn't mind a bit of wiggle room for our "just in case third row" passengers. After all, a bit of extra space is always a welcomed luxury when it comes to family adventures.
However, fuel efficiency was what truly set the 2024 Outlander PHEV apart. As parents conscious of both our budget and the environment, the ability to switch seamlessly to electric power for short trips was a game-changer. The EPA-rated 38 miles of all-electric driving range and a total range of 420 miles, combining electricity and gasoline, translated into fewer stops at the pump and a reduced carbon footprint—a win-win for any family. In fact, after making it back home, I had an entire week to experience the Outlander for my daily commute. And to liven things up a bit, I decided to take on my local commute without using any gasoline. This mid-size SUV successfully completed my weekly commute to work and my daughters' school (hundreds of miles) on an EV battery alone. It took strategy and planning (and it didn't hurt that my office building has a free level 1 charger), but it worked.
Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) is reinforcing its commitment to customer satisfaction and peace of mind with the 2024 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), combining advanced hybrid technology with an impressive maintenance program as outlined in the press release:
1. Two Years Limited Maintenance Included:
- As an extension of Mitsubishi Motors' renowned warranty program, the 2024 Outlander and other Mitsubishi vehicles sold in the United States will come with two years of limited maintenance.
- This maintenance program complements the existing warranty features, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty.
- Additionally, the two-year maintenance program is backed up by a five-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance program.
- This initiative underscores MMNA's dedication to providing an industry-leading ownership experience, solidified by its top ranking among mass-market brands in J.D. Power's 2023 Customer Service Index (CSI) study.
2. 2024 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Overview:
- The 2024 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid continues to solidify its position as the world's first plug-in hybrid electric SUV and the best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
- The vehicle maintains the bold, award-winning styling of its internal combustion engine counterpart while showcasing advanced hybrid technology and premium interior finishes.
- The IIHS recognized the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid as a 2023 Top Safety Pick for vehicles built after May 2023. It combines safety, confident driving, and eco-friendly motoring.
- Key to its hybrid performance is a 20-kWh drive battery combined with powerful front and rear motors, showcasing Mitsubishi Motors' Super-All Wheel Control twin-motor 4WD system.
- The Outlander Plug-in Hybrid is EPA-rated for an impressive 38 miles of all-electric driving range, contributing to a noteworthy overall driving range of 420 miles when combining electricity and gasoline.
3. 2024 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Platinum Edition:
- In the spirit of innovation and style, the 2024 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid introduces an all-new Platinum Edition.
- The Platinum Edition features a distinctive Black Diamond paint with an Alloy Silver roof color combination, setting it apart with a touch of elegance and exclusivity.
- While full specifications and pricing for the Platinum Edition are yet to be disclosed, it signals Mitsubishi's commitment to offering diverse and premium options for its customers.
The Outlander PHEV has proven to be more than just a vehicle; it's a reliable companion for families navigating the twists and turns of life. For those of you continuing your journeys through the hectic schedules of teenage life and the countless road trips accompanying them, the Outlander PHEV is worthy of consideration as a beacon of safety, efficiency, and style — a driving force for the modern family on the move.
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