Mitsubishi is in resurgent, confident mood, and this XR-PHEV II demonstrates that perfectly.
With sales of its Outlander PHEV booming, some 30,000 EU sales in around 12 months, the firm is leading the charge in plug-in mobility. The XR-PHEV II promises to be the next offering combining Mitsubishi's traditional SUV strength with its current PHEV dominance, though the XR-PHEV II's drivetrain differs considerably from its four-wheel drive relation.
Significantly, the XR PHEV II is front-wheel drive, its power provided by a petrol engine and electric generator/motor to allow for CO2 emissions under 40g/km. Primarily an electric car, the MIVEC petrol engine can be used as a range-extender, producing electricity, or, if required, providing motive power. Working on the front-wheels only the system automatically juggles the transition from pure electric trough parallel and series hybrid modes.
Not only does the XR-PHEV II exhibit the firm's latest plug-in technology, but also signals a new design direction. The bold exterior styling is carried through to the interior, which takes a leap in both quality and design. The aluminium forms in the otherwise minimalist interior are anticipated to make the production model; indeed, Mitsubishi's staff at the Geneva show were saying that the XR-PHEV II Concept is exceptionally close to the production vehicle. It's anticipated soon, to replace the ASX.