Although based on an existing design, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is an all-new plug-in hybrid vehicle.We think it's worth springing for the GT trim once you figure in a standard federal tax rebate for plug-in hybrid vehicles.
PROS Delivers plug-in SUV utility without luxury SUV price Offers a generous list of standard features Sophisticated all-wheel drive offers stability on slippery surfaces Generous warranty coverage
CONS Limited Mitsubishi dealer network Lower ground clearance hinders off-road ability Regular fuel economy is underwhelming Small gas tank limits overall range
Mitsubishi’s technology flagship, the Outlander plug-in hybrid, has arrived in the United States nearly five years after it was originally due. The vehicle itself might look rather dated (as does the rest of the Outlander lineup), but the technology within is most definitely not.
Pros Drives electric (mostly), speedy fast charging, two AC outlets comfortable ride, quiet cabin.
Cons Antiquated design, queasy on the back roads, cheap-feeling cabin materials, off-canter engine revs.
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a roomy SUV that’s very economical for short journeys if you can plug it in to charge the battery – it’s just a shame it looks a bit drab and doesn’t drive that well
Pros Cheap to run on short journeys Quiet around town Roomy back seats
Cons Terrible infotainment system Unsettled on bumpy roads Drab interior
Coming soon to a Pepperdine parking lot near you: the 2018 Jaguar E-Pace.
Pros Gorgeous exterior True torque vectoring Planted, confident drive Efficient interior space Some bits borrowed from F-Type
Cons the materials don’t scream luxury Priced close to the F-Pace Lagging automatic Gruff-sounding engine
The Jaguar E-Pace brings the British brand’s trademark style to the ever-expanding segment of small luxury crossovers. A turbo 2.0-liter inline-four makes 246 hp and has all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Pros Excellent road manners, comfortable for the driver plus one.
Cons Snug back seat; no, the I-Pace is the electric one.
We recommend the P250 E-Pace SE for its balance between cost and features. This model comes with the base engine, which puts out a respectable 246 horsepower, has standard all-wheel drive, and is packed full of features such as a power tailgate, 14-way power leather seats with memory function, an 11-speaker premium audio system, and a suite of advanced driving and parking aids.
PROS Ample power from turbocharged four-cylinder engines Relatively spacious accommodations Appealing mix of standard and optional luxury features Striking design from the inside out
CONS Highest cost of entry in the luxury compact segment It's the heavyweight of the class at more than 4,000 pounds Ride quality can be harsh in some configurations with bigger wheels
