The new plug-in SUV features a 4WD drivetrain with twin permanent-magnet synchronous motors in front and rear, each with a maximum output of 60 kW.

SUV fans will soon have a full selection of powertrains to choose from. Mitsubishi’s new Outlander PHEV will make its debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show that begins later this month, and is scheduled to go on sale in Japan early in 2013. It’s based on the new Outlander which debuted in Russia in July.

The new plug-in SUV uses an electric powertrain developed by Mitsubishi for its all-electric models. It features a 4WD drivetrain with twin permanent-magnet synchronous motors in front and rear, each with a maximum output of 60 kW. The lithium-ion battery has a total voltage of 300 V and a capacity of 12 kWh. The gas engine is a 2.0 liter, four-cylinder MIVEC. Electric-only range is expected to be 55 km, and total range should be around 880 km.

The Outlander PHEV automatically selects one of three drive modes, depending on driving conditions and remaining battery charge.

EV Drive Mode is an all-electric mode in which the front and rear motors drive the vehicle using only electricity from the battery. In Series Hybrid Mode the gasoline engine operates as a generator, supplying electricity to the electric motors. In Parallel Hybrid Mode the gasoline engine provides most of the power, assisted by the electric motors as required.

Image: Mitsubishi