The first step to a greener future is choosing the best power source. In the case of the Outlander PHEV and the Highlander Hybrid, you have your pick between a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or a hybrid powertrain. What’s the difference between these two types? Let’s take a look!

While PHEV and hybrid powertrains allow you to produce fewer tailpipe emissions, the PHEV provides more freedom.

Now that you know the differences between a PHEV and a hybrid vehicle, let’s compare the capabilities of the Outlander PHEV and the Highlander Hybrid.

The Highlander Hybrid has an EPA-estimated 36 city/35 highway MPG rating so you can travel far distances with fewer interruptions. Additionally, you’ll experience your daily dose of thrills thanks to a combined 243 horsepower.

If you think this is impressive, be prepared to be amazed. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has an EPA-estimated 64 MPGe (MPG equivalent) and a combined 248 horsepower. But the Outlander PHEV doesn’t stop there. It continues to outperform the Highlander Hybrid with its EPA-estimated 38-mile all-electric driving range and a total driving range of 420 miles.

In today’s modern world, staying connected is essential. Luckily, you’ll find many advanced tech features inside the Outlander PHEV and the Highlander Hybrid that will help keep you in the loop. Notable similarities include:

• 8-inch touchscreen display
• Smartphone integration
• 3-month SiriusXM® Satellite Radio trial
• Available premium audio system through Bose® (Mitsubishi) or JBL® (Toyota)

You’ll also notice that both SUVs have a 12.3-inch digital driver display. This display, conveniently housed behind the steering wheel, provides essential driving data. Its crisp and vibrant digital display makes it easy to glance at the information quickly.

A crucial difference with this 12.3-inch display is that it’s only standard on the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Highlander Hybrid drivers must upgrade to a higher trim level to obtain this feature.

Climb inside the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and you’ll notice the well-considered designs that help you feel at home while on the go. For example, you have ample seating around the TV for family movie nights, and these SUVs provide seating for seven passengers, ensuring room for friends and family.

Additional standard and optional comfort features of these SUVs include:

• Tri-Zone Climate Control
• Heated front seats
• Power panoramic sunroof
• Supple leather upholstery

These vehicles have many mood-boosting features; however, only the Outlander PHEV has available massaging front seats to help release back and shoulder tension.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, like its driver, embraces challenges with standard Super All-Wheel Control. This system, rooted in Mitsubishi's rally racing legacy, ensures exceptional road handling in any weather or terrain. In contrast, Toyota Highlander Hybrid drivers must opt for all-wheel drive, missing out on standard capability.

Another performance-based feature that boosts the driving experience is the seven standard drive modes offered by the Outlander PHEV. When selected, each drive mode systematically adjusts how your SUV performs, ensuring each commute is tailored to match your mood and environment.

While you’ll find standard drive modes with the Highlander Hybrid, the options are limited since it comes standard with only four possibilities.

The integration of advanced driver-assistance systems further optimizes the driving experience. Cameras and sensors monitor your surroundings and alert you to hazards you may have missed so you’ll always feel confident behind the wheel.

Regardless of which vehicle you choose, you’ll have standard access to features like Forward Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, and Blind Spot Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Alert for 360-degree monitoring.

The Outlander PHEV offers a robust driving experience with MI-PILOT Assist™, providing mild autonomous capabilities that are absent in the Highlander Hybrid. This feature reduces fatigue on long trips by maintaining lane centering and adjusting speed for safe following distances.