Our Fleet Test Drive: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – 7th report

New technology brings with it new experiences. Plug-in hybrid cars are definitely new technology and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV definitely brings a host of new experiences.

For this report I’m going to concentrate on the noises (and lack of) that come with the Outlander.
I’ve mentioned before the level of silence and refinement in both full electric operation and when the
2.0-litre petrol engine is running. And this is a major plus for the Mitsubishi because it means you arrive at your destination more relaxed than in a diesel.

However, I’m now starting to notice that in full EV mode it’s not just quiet in the cabin but outside too. And this has led to a couple of experiences where pedestrians haven’t noticed the car (because they haven’t looked) and stepped out in front of me. For some reason, this mainly happens in car parks. Fortunately I’m aware of the potential for this to happen and have been quick enough on the brakes.

The other first-world problem is that if the stereo’s off and you’re driving on electricity only you can just hear the aircon compressor from time to time. This is more a testament to the refinement of the car than a ‘problem’ because even when you can hear the aircon pump, the Outlander’s still more refined than any diesel 4×4.