The updated Outlander PHEV boasts reduced CO2 plus boosted interior quality. Mitsubishi has added more sound proofing for increased refinement too, while the dash has been redesigned and gains an updated media system.

Ride and handling have also been addressed with upgraded suspension. Prices have been raised by £1000, meanwhile, although all models gain extra kit.

The car feels plusher inside, but it lags behind rivals for style and tactility. Refinement gains, however, are much more noticeable. With the ability to happily run on electricity around town and on faster roads, the PHEV is quiet and relaxing to drive. The tweaked electric motors are slightly more responsive, while the car provides a smooth ride and responsive handling around corners.

When the petrol engine kicks in – a rarity when the batteries aren’t depleted – it is barely audible, smoothly cutting in and out. Wind, road and tyre noise levels are low too. The seats are comfortable, with plenty of space in both rows, although the boot shrinks in hybrid form; however, with five passengers onboard total volume still beats Ford’s Kuga.

Despite a hefty P11D price, the PHEV GX4hs compares favourably with diesel rivals for whole-life costs – at 61.4p per mile after the £5000 Plug-in Car Grant – courtesy of rock-bottom fuel and employer NI costs. In comparison, an equivalent Ford Kuga costs 65.0ppm, a Land Rover Discovery Sport 68.4ppm, the Hyundai Santa Fe 69.4ppm and Honda CR-V 71.8ppm. More significant, however, is BIK – 40% tax-payers could save £7164-£10,080 over three years.

Costs remain the PHEV’s strongest suit, but despite that, plus impressive refinement and green credentials, rivals such as the Honda CR-V and Land Rover Discovery Sport are more desirable.