Mitsubishi’s non-hybrid Outlander is now a mild hybrid

There are two versions of the three-row compact SUV. There’s the ICE-powered Outlander and the plug-in hybrid Outlander PHEV version. For 2026, the ICE version gets an electrified powertrain.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander front — *The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander has a new mild-hybrid powertrain. – Mitsubishi Canada photo*

Mitsubishi has launched its 2026 Outlander in Canada, which arrives with an entirely new engine motivating the compact three-row SUV.

There are two versions of the Outlander. There’s the regular Outlander with an internal combustion engine, and there’s also the Outlander PHEV, which has a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

For 2026, standard ICE version of the Outlander gets a new mild hybrid setup.

What is mild hybrid?

Mild hybrids have electrification to help lower fuel consumption. Unlike traditional hybrids, which can switch between electric or gasoline-burning engines to power the car, mild hybrids don’t typically use electric power alone to move the car.

The electric motor powers certain components that are traditionally handled by the engine, such as the air conditioner, which reduces the load on the engine, and allows the engine to shut off during braking or when the vehicle is coasting. In some cars, the e-motor also helps the vehicle accelerate or to move the car at low speeds, such as in parking lots.

What’s the new Outlander engine?

In the case of the 2026 Outlander, Mitsubishi jettisoned the former Nissan-sourced 2.5-litre four cylinder engine in favour of a unit made in house. Horsepower is down, but torque is up.

The new powertrain, featuring a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produces 174 hp (down seven) and 206 lb.-ft. of torque (up 25).

Fuel economy is also improved slightly. The new estimated ratings for the 2026 Outlander are 9.4/7.8/8.7 L/100 km (city/highway/combined) compared to the 2025 Outlander’s 9.8/7.9/8.9 L/100 km.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander interior — *The Mitsubishi Outlander received a facelift with new comfort features in 2026. – Mitsubishi Canada photo*

Prices tick up

The new model year also introduces a price increase.

The 2026 Outlander has a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $36,398, an increase of $800 compared to 2025. Once fees and levies are included, the starting purchase price of a 2026 Outlander comes to $39,264.

The Outlander received an update in 2025 that introduced a host of new standard features, including a Yamaha sound system across the model range, more sound insulation for a quieter cabin, new higher-quality upholstery, larger armrest, more storage spaces and other changes as well as some exterior styling changes.

The online configurator for the 2026 Outlander is open now on the Mitsubishi Canada website.