Mitsubishi launches first non-plug-in hybrid for NZ

Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) has unveiled the Outlander Sport hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), marking the brand’s first non-plug-in hybrid offering for the New Zealand market.

The compact SUV will arrive in the third quarter of 2026 and represents a significant expansion of Mitsubishi’s electrified vehicle range, targeting customers seeking fuel efficiency and lower emissions without plug-in requirements.

MMNZ revealed the model to its dealer network and head office team at the Diamond Dealer awards on May 8. The vehicle is known as Xforce in other global markets, where it has sold more than 77,000 units across Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East since its 2023 debut.

“We’re seeing more and more New Zealanders looking at electrified options, but not everyone is ready to make the jump to plug-in or fully electric vehicles,” says MMNZ Chief Operating Officer Tony Johnston.

“Outlander Sport HEV gives customers a highly efficient, practical SUV that delivers the benefits of electrification in a way that fits seamlessly into everyday life.”

Hybrid system designed for efficiency

The Outlander Sport HEV pairs a 1.6-litre MIVEC petrol engine with Mitsubishi’s latest-generation hybrid technology, automatically switching between electric vehicle, hybrid and engine drive modes to optimise efficiency and performance.

The system incorporates multiple hybrid operating modes, including parallel and series hybrid configurations, with automatic selection of the most efficient setup based on driving conditions and battery charge levels.

Regenerative braking and intelligent energy management are designed to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining smooth, quiet performance.

“The strength of this system is that it does the thinking for you,” Johnston says. “It’s constantly adapting to how and where you’re driving, so you get the efficiency benefits of electrification without needing to change your habits.”

Built for New Zealand conditions

The vehicle features 212mm ground clearance and selectable drive modes including Normal, Wet, Gravel and Mud, optimised for different surfaces and weather conditions.

Interior features include a 12.3-inch display system with wireless smartphone connectivity and a digital driver display providing real-time energy flow, electric vehicle driving ratio and regeneration data.

Standard safety features across the range include adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert, with leading car departure notification added as a new feature.

Part of broader 2026 expansion

The Outlander Sport HEV launch is the first in a wave of new models planned for 2026, including a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and another key model.

Mitsubishi is currently the third most popular automotive brand in New Zealand and second in passenger vehicles.

“These new models will open the door to entirely new segments for Mitsubishi in New Zealand,” Johnston says. “It’s about making sure we’re offering the right vehicles for where the market is heading, while continuing to build on the strengths that have made us such a popular and reliable choice for Kiwi drivers.”

Johnston confirms the ASX will remain part of the Mitsubishi range, with the Outlander Sport positioned alongside it in the compact SUV segment.

Pricing and full specification details will be announced closer to the Q3 2026 launch. The sole New Zealand example will be displayed at Fieldays at Mystery Creek from June 10–13 at site J42–J46.