While we had hoped to have driven a US market Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV by now, thanks to numerous delays, it looks like the Pluglander won't arrive until after it's mid cycle refresh. After seeing what Mitsubishi has done with the Concept-S, we're not so sure that's a bad thing... Also, red leather, because, awesome!
PRESS RELEASE:
Overview of the Outlander PHEV Concept-S
The Outlander PHEV Concept-S is a concept model presenting a special design package for the production Outlander PHEV. The exterior and interior design are created under "Sporty and Sophisticated" design theme. The design expresses driving pleasure by delivering powerful and agile driving performance as well as quiet, advanced and high quality driving performance provided by its Twin Motor 4WD and Plug-in Hybrid EV System.
Exterior
Meant to symbolize the functionality and reassuring safety inherent to Mitsubishi Motors' SUVs, the front end design shields the Three-Diamond mark with bold chromed accent moldings on either side - a three dimensional effect - in a further suggestion of motion.
Wraparound headlamps contribute themselves to a sense of dynamism sweeping gently up and outwards.
This "protective theme" continues at the rear where similar symbolic chrome accents – topped by elongated combination lamps - run from tailgate to wings meant to express dynamic and innovative styling as if bracing the vehicle for better safety. The body color uses a brilliant "Platinum White" with glass flake finish.
Interior
Contrary to the sparkling exterior design, the "Black & Burgundy" color scheme interior design offers a refined quality passenger compartment.
In particular, Concept-S' interior design makes use of painstakingly executed detailing to express precision, quality, craftsmanship and sophistication such as:
- Black woodgrain trim with silver accent
- The center console designed inspired by Japanese traditional black lacquered boxes
- Soft fine leather, hand-stitched by craftsmen selected for the seat upholstery
Furthermore, the seat upholstery forms a three-dimensional surface with horizontally-ribbed cushioning providing superior fit, while the use of trimming lines is formed so as to gently follow the body contours holding occupants snugly in place.
Silver accents of the trimming lines, curving around the seat, further enhance the perceived quality of the interior.
