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The fifth generation of Mitsubishi’s long-serving mid-size SUV might be just as groundbreaking as its first plug-in hybrid was in 2012
An all-new Mitsubishi Outlander is due in two years, says Japanese media.
Though its strong Australian sales might mask its age, the current, fourth-generation Outlander launched in 2021, so Mitsubishi is likely partway through developing its successor.
If Japanese outlet Response is correct, Mitsubishi is planning something bold. The design is reportedly spun from the Elevance concept, unveiled in October 2025 at the Tokyo motor show, so a more extroverted Outlander might replace today’s monolithic one.
Remarkably, it’s reported the Elevance’s four-motor plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain is closer to production than it looks.
While the current Outlander PHEV uses an electric motor at each axle to offer all-wheel drive, the next Outlander will have a motor positioned at each wheel.
The rear motors will be used for torque vectoring to increase its dynamic ability, while the front motors are reportedly mounted in the wheels themselves.
No details about the engine have emerged. Two possibilities are speculated – the current Outlander PHEV’s four-cylinder petrol engine could carry over, or the three-cylinder in the distantly related Nissan X-Trail ePower could be adopted.
The quad-motor arrangement enables exceptionally exacting power distribution. The benefits of this extend off-road, where the four motors could theoretically mimic locking differentials for strong grip in loose surfaces.
The Elevance concept implies this is Mitsubishi’s thinking; it’s shown to have Gravel, Snow and Mud modes alongside Tarmac.
Response notes the quad-motor arrangement might feature in a range-topping Outlander PHEV while the dual-motor continues in other – likely more affordable – variants.
Chasing Cars has contacted Mitsubishi Australia for comment.
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