New Bolt leaser here, who is also relatively new to a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (technically our "next" EV).
So far so great with the Outlander PHEV. We were in the market for a PHEV with AWD/4WD and it was the only one available. Mini discontinued production on their Countryman E All4 recently, so their stock has all but disappeared. Hence, the Outlander was the only option, but one we were leaning towards even if a comparable Mini reappeared.
Some observations: with a 14 kWh battery and twin electric motors (front&back for 4WD) plus ice hybrid engine, this is a heavy car (curb weight of ~ 4,200 lbs). Hence, it feels very substantial and handles quite well for a cross-over SUV. It's size is definitely on the small size for SUVs, smaller than the new Forester, and only a bit longer than the Mini Countryman, believe it or not (otherwise very similar in size). Seats 5 comfortably, but has no back row despite having a significant trunk area (batteries prevent a hideaway seat). Pricing was very reasonable with $4-5K below original msrp (for base model). Not too many choices in colors, options packages, etc. Wife commutes ~ 12 miles each way, doesn't need to charge, has yet to use much gas beyond full EV mode. So, we are getting very high MPGe at this juncture. First 50+ mile trip consumed minimal fuel as well. It will definitely be delivering on the 72 MPGe for our usage pattern.
Pros: continuous asynchronous AWD with on-demand lockable 4WD (in full EV mode or hybrid modes); reliable and robust delay charging timing and pre-conditioning; superior visibility and seating height for size (very similar to Forester); sleek look and feel for the price range (rims are striking); Lvl 2&3 charge capabilities (standard, but seemingly unnecessary for 14 kWh); full-EV priority drive mode when charge available; seamless hybrid (parallel & series) when needed (very well executed); Paddle regen control and near one-pedal driving capability; large cargo capacity; spacious interior and headroom; good touchscreen w/ autoplay capabilities/projection; folding mirrors standard; blindspot warning standard and well executed; collision warning systems available in higher model; significant progressive window tinting standard; 1500 lb towing capacity (could be a con, see below re: power); very long range on 9 gallon gas tank; and 1500W power outlet for higher end model.
Cons: ~ 30 mile full EV range on full 14 kWh charge (~ 2 mi/kWh efficiency low, but understandable w/ hybrid and weight/size/4WD); power not outstanding (OK, but with large loads and hills, definitely not comparable to small ICE SUVs); Mitsubishi App essentially not usable/pairable; limited market penetration (no significant online support community); full regen braking not as aggressive/robust as other EV...could be a weight issue (one-pedal driving not always practical); backup camera/grid static (ie, no grid curve, which you miss vs Bolt); only Black or Brown leather interiors available; and touchscreen almost has too many options to scroll through...not nearly as intuitive as Bolt.
IF anyone is in the market for a crossover SUV and is looking for 4WD/AWD, this is a great option for the money right now. Highly recommended. We had been long time Mini and Subaru fans, but with the PHEV-AWD combo nothing else fits a niche that we were keen to explore. We are leasing this, as the 30 mi full-EV range will surely improve in future comparable models. For now, however, we are very impressed with this PHEV.
Cheers,
Tim