Mitsubishi has announced a significant change for the 2026 Outlander in the United States, shifting from the traditional naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine to a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine. This new powertrain also incorporates the company’s first mild-hybrid system. The introduction of this engine follows a similar model released in China in 2022, although it remains uncertain whether Australia will adopt this new configuration.
The turbocharged 1.5-litre engine, which will replace the 2.5-litre variant in the US market, is expected to deliver outputs of 120 kW of power and 280 Nm of torque. While these figures reflect a decrease of 15 kW from the outgoing engine, the torque output sees an increase of 36 Nm. Mitsubishi Australia has yet to confirm whether this engine will be available for the local market, as the Outlander is currently produced exclusively in Japan for various international markets, including the US and Australia.
In its announcement, Mitsubishi highlighted that the new mild-hybrid system will enhance driving dynamics. The company stated that the electric motor assist will provide “smooth, manageable acceleration while improving fuel efficiency.” Although specific details regarding fuel economy improvements and performance metrics are not yet available, Mitsubishi plans to release this information closer to the Outlander’s launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Changes and Expansions in the Outlander Lineup
The 2026 Outlander will not feature major visual updates following the 2025 facelift, but it will expand its lineup with the addition of a Ralliart variant. Details regarding the Ralliart model remain undisclosed, leaving enthusiasts eager for more information.
Currently, the Australian version of the Outlander is offered with a 2.4-litre plug-in hybrid engine, which limits Mitsubishi’s competition in the growing market segment of non-plug-in hybrid mid-size SUVs. Notably, rivals such as the top-selling Toyota RAV4 have introduced multiple hybrid configurations, creating a competitive landscape that Mitsubishi must navigate carefully.
If the turbocharged mild-hybrid powertrain remains exclusive to the North American market, Mitsubishi may be adopting a strategy similar to Nissan, which has differentiated the Rogue in the US from its counterpart sold in Australia. The Rogue transitioned from a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine to a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine in 2022, a move that has been met with varying levels of success.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Mitsubishi’s decision to implement this new powertrain could signal a commitment to enhancing vehicle performance and efficiency. With growing consumer demand for hybrid and electric vehicles, the 2026 Outlander may play a crucial role in the company’s strategy to compete effectively in the global market.
