More electric range for Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid: updated family SUV and rival to BYD Sealion 6 gets better fuel economy and powertrain upgrades for 2025, but when will it come to Australia?

Mitsubishi has unveiled a refreshed Outlander plug-in hybrid in Europe that delivers improved range and powertrain output in addition to some cosmetic and technology upgrades.

Likely to arrive locally in 2025, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV gains a new 22.7kWh battery pack with a new motor control unit and heat pump system that helps reduce power consumption.

It replaces the previous 20kWh unit and increases pure EV range to 86km under the WLTP test cycle, which was previously claimed at 84km under the less accurate NEDC testing cycle.

Total range is now 'tentatively' claimed at 844km, up from a previously claimed range of 'over 800km', while fuel economy is quoted as 0.8-litres/100km, nearly half of the previous 1.5-litres/100km.

Electric motors on the front and rear axles apparently maintain the same respective power outputs of 85kW/255Nm and 100kW/195Nm. So too does the 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine capable of 100kW/203Nm, however, Mitsubishi says overall power is upped by 40kW for an output of 225kW.

Ride quality has also been improved thanks to retuned steering, suspension and tyres.

Exterior design upgrades are relatively minor, with a revised upper front grille that adopts a monotoned look opposed to the previous model's vented design.

There’s also redesigned 18-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels, depending on the variant you choose, as well as a new Moonstone Grey paint colour.

Inside, the Outlander’s 9.0-inch multimedia touchscreen has been replaced by a new 12.3-inch unit borrowed from the Nissan X-Trail with whom it shares a platform. It gains wireless Android Auto in addition to the already standard wireless Apple Carplay.

A 12-speaker Yamaha system has replaced the previous 10-speaker Bose system on flagship variants, which Mitsubishi says will deliver higher quality audio.

For the first time there is also ventilated front seating, a digital rearview mirror and brown leather upholstery.

Pricing hasn’t been confirmed for Australia yet, though it is expected to rise over the current model’s starting price of $57,290 before on-road costs.