Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV earns 5-star ANCAP rating

Mitsubishi’s all-new Outlander PHEV has followed in the footsteps of its pure internal combustion engine cousins in earning a 5-star safety rating with Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

The independent research group have given the Outlander PHEV the same ratings as the petrol variants tested. This means it scores an 83 for adult occupant protection, 92 for child occupant protection, 81 for vulnerable road user protection, and 83 for safety assist.

The ratings come after ANCAP performed additional tests on the model in its PHEV designation. These comprised a frontal offset test and an oblique pole test.

ANCAP notes that while the Outlander is a strong safety performer, it was given a ‘marginal’ rating for upper leg protection during its frontal offset test and another marginal rating for rear passenger head and chest protection.

All other measures earned either an ‘acceptable’, ‘adequate’, or ‘good’ rating during the added crash tests.

“Earlier this year we saw the new Mitsubishi Outlander enter the market with a five-star ANCAP safety rating … We’ve now conducted two additional crash tests specifically on PHEV variants and confirmed comparable levels of safety performance,” says ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg.

“This is an important rating for fleets and the market more generally … Alternative-powered models and variants are growing in popularity – particularly given the recent rise in fuel prices.

“There are an increasing number of alternative-powered models which hold a 5 star ANCAP safety rating, and the Outlander PHEV now adds to that list as a safer and greener choice. Consumers and fleet buyers should not compromise on safety when considering these vehicles.”

The Outlander PHEV joins a range of other plug-in vehicles to have been awarded a 5-star ANCAP safety rating in the last few months, including the Polestar 2, BMW iX, Ioniq 5, and Volvo XC40 Recharge.