In preparation for the launch of the new 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which goes on sale in the UK on August 1, the first shipment of vehicles has arrived in the UK at Bristol’s Royal Portbury Docks, with more shipments set to dock in the following weeks.

Mitsubishi Motors says this first batch of around 400 vehicles will enable it to meet a surge in demand for this model, and will be closely followed by nearly 2,000 vehicles in the coming weeks. The new 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has been engineered to meet the latest emissions regulations and qualifies for the government plug-in car grant thanks to its WLTP emissions of 46g/km and EV range of 28 miles, while also attracting the lowest possible BIK rate of 13 percent.

Mitsubishi says these figures are a direct result of the extensive revisions the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has received for 2019. A new 2.4-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine produces 133 bhp (up from 119 bhp) across a wider rev range (156 ft lb vs 140 ft lb). The rear electric motor output increases to 94 bhp and the drive battery benefits from a 10 per cent increase in output, the overall capacity is increased to 13.8kWh thanks to new battery cells, all of this results in WLTP combined fuel economy of 139mpg.

To complement the drivetrain enhancements, the front and rear shock absorbers have been revised to improve low-speed ride and a new “Sport Mode” brings with it sharper throttle responsiveness and more grip via the Super All-Wheel Control system. The steering ratio has also been revised and the power steering ECU re-mapped to offer more responsiveness and feel, while larger front brake discs boost stopping power. There’s also a new “Snow Mode” to improve low-grip launching and cornering abilities on slippery surfaces.

Mitsubishi says the Outlander PHEV is also quieter and more refined, with more comfort and supportive front seats, new switchgear, a revised instrument cluster, the addition of rear ventilation vents, and more convenient USB ports. In terms of exterior style, there’s a new front end with a redesigned grille with honeycomb mesh, new bumper extension and new headlamp design with LED hi-beams. The rear has a new rear bumper extension lower extension and a large roof spoiler while new, two-tone contrasted 18-inch multi-spoke alloys complete the exterior revisions.

Rob Lindley, Managing Director, Mitsubishi Motors in the UK said: “The engineering improvements on the 2019 Outlander PHEV show a significant and progressive step forward and demonstrates Mitsubishi’s knowledge and expertise as one of the pioneers of plug-in hybrid technology. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV remains the UK’s most popular plug-in vehicle, and the revisions made for 2019 should help retain this status. Current year to date sales in the Ultra-low emission sector are up 27.7 per cent, and this is an area of particular importance to us as a brand as we continue to meet consumer demand. The ongoing sales success of Outlander PHEV and our other SUVs has meant that we have been able to sustain a period of growth in the passenger car market, with sales up 13.6 per cent year on year.”

The first examples of the new 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will be delivered to UK dealers in the coming weeks prior to its on-sale date of August 1. UK pricing and specification will be announced on that date.