Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Reportedly Getting a Full Redesign for 2028

A Very Important Nameplate

It’s hard to deny the importance of the Mitsubishi Outlander, especially in the US. By June 2026, more than 18,000 Outlanders were sold here, making it one of the brand’s top sellers, both as a gas model and a plug-in hybrid.

However, the current Outlander has been on sale in the US since 2022 and globally since 2021. Even with a recent update, its underlying design is starting to feel outdated. Now, a new report from Japan suggests Mitsubishi is planning a full redesign, giving us an early look at what’s ahead.

Next-Gen Outlander PHEV Coming in 2028

Japanese outlet Response claims Mitsubishi is planning a full model overhaul for the Outlander PHEV in 2028. Mitsubishi hasn’t put anything in writing yet, but the report says the next-gen Outlander will double down on plug-in hybrid know-how and push its all-wheel-drive tech even further.

A seven-year run fits Mitsubishi’s usual playbook, so 2028 sounds about right for a brand-new Outlander. This time, the SUV is expected to lean harder into its electrified identity, not just serve as a hybrid add-on.

Mitsubishi is also reportedly developing a larger battery and a more advanced plug-in hybrid system, which could allow for more electric-only driving. For comparison, the latest Japanese Outlander PHEV already has a 22.7-kWh battery, an increase from the previous 20-kWh version.

Another twist: Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control system could get a serious upgrade, first arriving with the Pajero. Right now, the Outlander PHEV runs two electric motors – one per axle. The next version might go even further, with more precise control at each wheel. Still, Response says Mitsubishi could stick with the twin-motor setup if costs get in the way.

The Elevance Concept Would Be the Best Candidate

The Mitsubishi Elevance Concept (depicted here) is the best candidate to become the next Outlander. Showcased at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, Mitsubishi hasn’t confirmed it, but the concept is packed with tech the brand says will shape its future electrified SUVs.

The Elevance Concept mixes a plug-in hybrid setup with a big battery and a gas engine that’s ready for carbon-neutral fuels. The real headline, though, is a quad-motor all-wheel-drive system – one electric motor per wheel – paired with the next-gen S-AWC dynamics tech.

Inside, the concept hints at Mitsubishi’s future interior design, featuring a panoramic dashboard display, an AI co-driver that adapts to the driver, and a more upscale cabin inspired by the brand’s “Luxe Adventurer” theme.

It will be some time before 2028 arrives, and Mitsubishi has not shared production details yet. It’s also unclear whether Mitsubishi will let go of the pure combustion model, or continue with a two-pronged approach. However, if the Japanese report is accurate, the Outlander could see significant improvements.