After being ‘extensively revised’ in 2016, the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has been revealed with a further evolution in technology, safety and dynamic performance.

Mitsubishi has introduced a new 'EV Priority Mode' function across all models of the Plug-in Hybrid Electric car. The new EV switch is located below the 4WD button and once activated, it allows the driver to operate the vehicle in EV mode without the engine starting, provided there is sufficient charge in the batteries. An electronic parking brake is also new to the 2017 Outlander PHEV, as well as a brake auto hold button function which, when activated, holds the vehicle in traffic or on an include the same way a handbrake would, allowing the driver to release the footbrake.

Power comes from a 2.0-litre petrol engine which can transition between three driving modes (EV, series hybrid and parallel hybrid) as well as aiding a 0-62mph time of 11 seconds whilst offering CO2 emissions of 41g/km and returning up to 166mpg. The Outlander PHEV offers an ‘ultra-smooth driving experience’ according Mitsubishi due in part to further enhancements to the suspension for 2017.

The powertrain and chassis have been revised, with new dampers and rear suspension bushes, making it 'quieter and more refined' to drive, says Mitsubishi. Rapid charging has also been improved, reducing charging time to 80% full from 30 minutes to approximately 25 minutes, and its pure electric range has increased to 33 miles, up from 32 miles.

The 2017 model also delivers more performance with improved acceleration in EV mode compared to its predecessor. Regenerative braking technology, which works to put lost energy back into the battery when slowing down and which can adjusted while driving using the steering wheel paddles, has also been upgraded for 2017 Outlander PHEV - the drive battery output has been improved by 10%.

Safety features have also been further developed and improved while a more 'refined' exterior includes silver roof rails, as well as clean chrome accents on the sills and the shark-fin antenna is now incorporated in the roof line.

Prices for the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV ‘3h’ start at £34,749 OTR, which is fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights with headlamp washers as standard, along with the Electronic Parking Brake with Brake Auto Hold the new EV Switch and steering wheel paddles, to name a few of the features.

£39,399 OTR gains entry to the mid-level ‘4h’ model which adds LED front fog lamps, Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a 360 degree camera function, leather upholstery a power operated tailgate and a heated steering wheel to name some of its features.

£39,399 OTR gains entry to the mid -level ‘4h’ model which adds LED front fog lamps, Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a 360 degree camera function, leather upholstery a power operated tailgate and a heated steering wheel to name some of its features.

The range-topping ‘5h’ model starts at £43,899 OTR and adds a ‘touch of luxury’ with a new premium Nappa leather, LED main beam lighting while blue LED mood lighting (including puddle lamps) twin rear USB charging ports, an ‘Outlander’ bonnet badge, rear spoiler and a premium Alpine audio system have been added.

The Mitsubishi Outlander 4hs and 5hs versions add a full suite of active safety systems including Auto High Beam, adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, unintended acceleration mitigation, front and rear parking sensors and lane departure warning.