25 MPG combined is a compromised figure for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. It’s not terrible, but it’s not the hybrid fuel economy many buyers expect from a plug-in powertrain. This number highlights the Outlander PHEV’s core identity: it’s a compact SUV that prioritizes practicality and initial affordability over efficiency, appealing to budget-conscious families who need a flexible space and are willing to manage its quirks to get it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates nearly identical fuel economy for both city and highway driving: 25 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This is fairly strange. Typically, hybrid vehicles achieve better mileage in city driving because they can use electric power at lower speeds and during stop-and-go traffic. The fact that the Outlander PHEV’s figures are so close suggests that its electric assist system isn’t as impactful as it could be, or that the gasoline engine is working harder to compensate.

It also highlights that the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, while adequate, must work hard to push the Outlander PHEV’s weight. This also reflects on Outlander PHEV drivers: they are less interested in squeezing every last MPGe out of the powertrain and more interested in the overall ownership experience.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV at $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. It provides a standardized way for consumers to compare the running costs of different vehicles. However, your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on your driving habits, the prices at your local gas station, and, crucially, how often you plug in to recharge the battery. Drivers who consistently keep the battery charged and complete many short trips on electric power alone will spend significantly less than $1,750 per year on fuel.

Conversely, those who rarely charge the vehicle and rely predominantly on the gasoline engine could easily exceed the EPA’s estimate. See OUTLANDER MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

The official EPA numbers don’t always tell the full story, and the Outlander PHEV is a prime example. Real-world fuel economy is heavily dependent on how frequently you charge the battery and the length of your typical trips. If you primarily use the car for short commutes within the electric range (approximately 22 miles), you could see significantly better fuel economy than the EPA estimates. However, extended highway driving without charging will result in numbers closer to, or even below, 25 MPG.

Owners who diligently plug in and maximize electric driving often report impressive overall MPGe figures, effectively negating the EPA’s gasoline-only MPG numbers for much of their driving. For others, the gasoline engine is always working behind the scenes.

How it compares

The 2018 Outlander PHEV’s fuel economy lags behind some of its plug-in hybrid competitors. The Toyota RAV4 Prime, for instance, boasts an EPA-estimated 40 MPG combined, with a significantly longer electric range. The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid achieves around 41 MPG combined as well. Even considering non plug-in hybrids, the standard Toyota RAV4 Hybrid delivers around 40 MPG combined.

This fuel economy disparity must be considered because the Outlander PHEV was often significantly more affordable than these competitors when new. The Outlander PHEV traded fuel efficiency for a lower price point and, for some buyers, a more spacious interior. For more information regarding all Mitsubishi fuel economy data be sure to explore our website before purchasing.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take full advantage of the PHEV powertrain and plug in as frequently as possible. Even topping off the battery for an hour or two can significantly reduce your gasoline consumption, especially if you anticipate making short trips soon after. Consistent charging is the most effective strategy for maximizing the Outlander PHEV’s fuel efficiency.

Use the “Save” and “Charge” modes strategically. The “Save” mode preserves the battery’s charge for later use, allowing you to deploy electric power in specific situations, such as city driving or entering a zero-emission zone. The “Charge” mode uses the gasoline engine to recharge the battery while driving, but this process is inherently inefficient and should only be used when absolutely necessary.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these actions waste energy and reduce fuel economy. Instead, practice gentle acceleration and coast whenever possible to conserve momentum and maximize efficiency. Take advantage of regenerative braking to recapture energy and extend your range.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them as needed to maintain optimal efficiency. This is a simple but effective way to improve your MPG.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying heavy cargo in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to reduce weight and improve efficiency. Even small reductions in weight can make a noticeable difference over time. and ensure your roof rack is empty when not in use; these racks cause drag.