Higher Ground - 2023 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV

Highs: Much quicker than the nonhybrid, 24 miles of EV range, eye-popping interior. Lows: Powertrain noise, some dynamic rough edges, pointless third-row seat.

- JOE LORIO P

Like a shape-shifter, Mitsubishi has been many things. First known to Americans as the maker of gasstingy little Dodges and Plymouths, Mitsubishi has also produced its own econoboxes, sporty coupes, high-strung sport compacts, and off-road-ready SUVS. Repeatedly, though, changing markets or a wave of competitors washed out the ground beneath Mitsu's feet.

The brand's latest niche is the plugin-hybrid compact crossover. Its Outlander PHEV, sold here since 2018, enters its second generation for 2023-but the floodwaters of competition are already rising.

A corporate tie-up with Nissan means the latest Outlander is based on the Nissan Rogue, but the two look nothing alike. Under the hood is Mitsubishi's engine: a 131-hp Atkinson-cycle 2.4-liter inline-four aided by three electric motors, one of which drives the rear wheels.