Mitsubishi Motors Ireland has today (May 12) announced that its Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) will arrive in June priced from €41,950.
Comparing favourably with an equivalent diesel model that retails for €39,950, the entry-level Intense car includes such standard specification as 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, Bluetooth and parking sensors. Opt for the higher specification Instyle version (available from €47,450) and front fog lights with daytime running lamps, an electric sunroof and navigation system with integrated rear view camera are added.
Whatever the model the price does include the €5,000 SEAI grant and Government VRT relief for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles. The Outlander PHEV has an emissions rating of just 44g/km making for annual motor tax of only €170.
The benefits for private buyers are obvious with 'fuel' costing as little as €1.20 if charged overnight and fuel consumption of 1.9 litres/100km (148.7mpg) when the Outlander runs in hybrid rather than just EV mode. But business owners may also benefit with the SEAI Accelerated Capital Allowances, allowing companies to write off 100 per cent of the purchase value of "qualifying energy efficient equipment" - including a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle - against their profit in the year of purchase.
Anything else?
For those who have not read our first drive review, the Outlander PHEV is a four-wheel drive SUV that can operate in one of three modes: EV Dive Mode - or pure electric - for up to 52km; Series Hybrid Mode, where the 2.0-litre petrol engine acts as a generator for the electric motors; and Parallel Hybrid Mode, where the engine joins in to provide power to the wheels.