Mitsubishi Details Changes for 2026 Led by Updated Outlander PHEV
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV benefits from cosmetic and technical updates for the 2026 model year, which marks the midpoint of the current generation launched three years ago.
The plug-in hybrid SUV gets a redesigned and quieter interior, as well as new materials, new colours, plus heated and ventilated front seats. The revamped centre console features extra storage, new cupholders and a redesigned charging pad for smartphones. Also standard are Canadian-exclusive Dynamic Sound audio systems from Yamaha with a 12.3-inch infotainment display.
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On the outside, updates include a revised grille that’s now completely detached from the hood, redesigned front and rear bumpers, new 18- and 20-inch wheel designs and darker tint rear taillights. By the way, the darker-looking NOIR model is still part of the lineup.
Expect a more stable ride and more pleasant driving experience thanks to new suspension and steering calibration. That said, the main improvement to the 2026 Outlander PHEV will be a larger-capacity high-voltage battery providing longer all-electric range than the current model’s 61 km.
The vehicle is scheduled to land in Canada next winter, and Mitsubishi will provide further details at that time.
2026 Outlander
Following a significant mid-cycle update for 2025, the conventionally powered Outlander gains a NOIR model for 2026. However, the most important change lies under the hood, where the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine will be replaced with a hybrid system using a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine.
Mitsubishi claims the new powertrain will “deliver increased torque and drivability thanks to electrified torque aiding off-the-line acceleration.”
The 2026 Outlander will go on sale this fall. Once again, we’ll have to keep waiting to learn everything about the vehicle.
2026 Eclipse Cross and RVR
As for the Japanese automaker’s two smaller crossovers, the 2026 Eclipse Cross will launch this summer with a new engine remote starter in GT trim instead of embedded navigation. Also, the NOIR edition will be $1,500 cheaper as a result of changes to the audio system and the deletion of the sunroof.
Meanwhile, the impossibly old RVR will soldier on for yet another year in its current form (which dates back to 2011), with no significant change in store. All-wheel drive remains standard on all models except the entry-level ES FWD.
Small EV to Launch in 2026
As part of its five-year North American business plan called “Momentum 2030,” Mitsubishi will launch a new or significantly revised vehicle each year from 2025 to 2030. As we reported in May, the company will work with its Alliance partner Nissan to launch a battery electric vehicle to market in the U.S. and Canada starting in the summer of 2026.
The new Mitsubishi EV will largely be derived from the next-generation 2026 Nissan LEAF. Both vehicles will ride on Nissan’s CMF-EV modular platform. Look for a built-in NACS charging port enabling direct access to the Tesla Supercharger network. Further details including the name, design, technical specifications, pricing and on-sale timing will be shared as part of future announcements.
“Adding a battery electric vehicle to our lineup will deliver a blend of internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, so that our customers have the choice of technology that best suits their needs,” said Kenichi Kawaji, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Canada.
