Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL. This isn't your average SUV; it's a plug-in hybrid that promises a blend of efficiency, practicality, and modern features. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or just looking for your next family vehicle, this review will give you all the juicy details you need.

Exterior Design: Bold and Modern

The 2023 Outlander PHEV SEL makes a statement with its bold and modern exterior design. The front fascia features Mitsubishi's Dynamic Shield design language, characterized by a large, blacked-out grille flanked by sleek LED headlights and daytime running lights. This gives the vehicle an aggressive and sophisticated look, ensuring it stands out in a crowded market. The sharp lines and sculpted surfaces continue along the sides, creating a sense of motion even when the car is stationary. The rear of the vehicle is equally striking, with LED taillights that wrap around the corners and a sculpted tailgate. The overall design is cohesive and well-executed, making the Outlander PHEV SEL a visually appealing SUV.

One of the standout features of the exterior is the attention to detail. Chrome accents are strategically placed to enhance the premium feel, while the blacked-out pillars and roof rails add a touch of sportiness. The large alloy wheels, which are unique to the SEL trim, further contribute to the vehicle's upscale appearance. The charging port is neatly integrated into the rear fender, making it easily accessible without disrupting the vehicle's design. From every angle, the Outlander PHEV SEL exudes confidence and modernity, making it a compelling choice for buyers who value style.

Moreover, the aerodynamic enhancements contribute to the vehicle's overall efficiency. The carefully sculpted body reduces drag, which helps to improve fuel economy and reduce wind noise at higher speeds. The integrated spoiler on the tailgate also plays a role in optimizing airflow, further enhancing the vehicle's aerodynamic performance. These design elements not only improve the vehicle's appearance but also contribute to its functionality, making the Outlander PHEV SEL a well-rounded and thoughtfully designed SUV. The color options available for the 2023 model year are also carefully curated to complement the vehicle's design, allowing buyers to choose a hue that reflects their personal style.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL, you're greeted with a cabin that balances comfort and technology. The seats are upholstered in premium leather, providing a comfortable and supportive experience for both the driver and passengers. The front seats are heated, adding an extra layer of luxury on cold days. The driver's seat is also power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The overall design of the interior is clean and modern, with high-quality materials used throughout.

The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen display, which serves as the central hub for the vehicle's infotainment system. The system is intuitive and easy to use, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. It includes features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle. The system also supports navigation, providing turn-by-turn directions to your destination. A premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, enhancing the overall driving experience. The Outlander PHEV SEL also includes a range of advanced safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

Furthermore, the interior of the Outlander PHEV SEL is designed with practicality in mind. There's plenty of storage space throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, making it easy to transport bulky items. The vehicle also includes a power liftgate, which makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze. The Outlander PHEV SEL is equipped with a range of convenience features, such as keyless entry, push-button start, and automatic climate control. These features add to the overall comfort and convenience of the vehicle, making it a pleasure to drive and own. The attention to detail in the interior design and the thoughtful integration of technology make the Outlander PHEV SEL a standout in its class.

Performance and Efficiency: The Plug-In Advantage

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL sets itself apart with its plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering a unique blend of performance and efficiency. The vehicle is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 248 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. This setup provides ample power for everyday driving, with quick acceleration and smooth performance. The electric motors provide instant torque, making the Outlander PHEV SEL feel responsive and engaging to drive.

One of the key advantages of the plug-in hybrid system is the ability to drive on electric power alone. The Outlander PHEV SEL has an EPA-estimated electric range of 38 miles, allowing you to complete many daily commutes without using any gasoline. When the battery is depleted, the vehicle seamlessly switches to hybrid mode, using the gasoline engine to power the vehicle and recharge the battery. This ensures that you always have the power you need, without worrying about running out of charge. The Outlander PHEV SEL also includes a regenerative braking system, which captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery.

The Outlander PHEV SEL offers several driving modes, allowing you to customize the vehicle's performance to suit your needs. In EV mode, the vehicle operates solely on electric power, providing silent and emissions-free driving. In Hybrid mode, the vehicle automatically switches between electric and gasoline power to maximize efficiency. In Save mode, the vehicle uses the gasoline engine to maintain the battery's charge level, allowing you to save the electric range for later use. In Charge mode, the vehicle uses the gasoline engine to actively recharge the battery while driving. These driving modes give you greater control over the vehicle's performance and efficiency, making the Outlander PHEV SEL a versatile and practical choice for a wide range of driving conditions. The plug-in hybrid system not only reduces your carbon footprint but also saves you money on fuel costs, making the Outlander PHEV SEL a smart and sustainable choice.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind

When it comes to safety, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL doesn't skimp. It's packed with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard features include forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These systems use sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle's surroundings and alert you to potential hazards.

The forward collision mitigation system can detect vehicles and pedestrians in front of you and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision. The lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, helping you stay on course. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, making it safer to change lanes. The rear cross-traffic alert system alerts you to vehicles approaching from the side when you're backing up, helping you avoid accidents in parking lots.

In addition to these standard features, the Outlander PHEV SEL also offers adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. This feature can be especially useful on long highway drives, reducing driver fatigue and improving safety. The vehicle also includes a multi-view camera system, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The Outlander PHEV SEL has earned top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. With its comprehensive suite of safety features, the Outlander PHEV SEL provides peace of mind for you and your family.

Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Outlander PHEV SEL Right for You?

So, is the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL the right choice for you? If you're looking for a stylish, versatile, and efficient SUV with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the answer is likely yes. It offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, a range of advanced safety features, and the ability to drive on electric power alone for many daily commutes. While it may not be the sportiest SUV on the market, it delivers a smooth and refined driving experience that's perfect for everyday use. The Outlander PHEV SEL is a compelling option in the competitive SUV market, offering a unique combination of features and benefits that set it apart from the competition. Whether you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint, save money on fuel costs, or simply enjoy a comfortable and well-equipped SUV, the Outlander PHEV SEL is worth considering. It represents a step forward in the evolution of SUVs, combining practicality, efficiency, and modern technology in a single package. So go ahead, give it a test drive and see if it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle!