Mitsubishi announced the official economy ratings of the Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) ahead of its launch in spring 2014 in the UK. The car boasts impressive numbers, averaging 148 mpg on the combined cycle, and emitting no more than 44 g/km CO2. That makes it congestion charge exempt in London.

Other advantages of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, for those on a budget, include tiny fuel bills, no vehicle excise duty (VED) and, for company car drivers, a benefit in kind (BIK) rate of just 5%. Outlander easily meets TfL’s new Congestion Charge exemption criteria and once launched will become one of the largest vehicles to get in and out of London for free.

The key to this capability is a clever hybrid system that enables the Outlander to travel for 32 miles on electricity alone. With the combustion engine engaged, the range increases to 514 miles. The top speed is 75 mph.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is no doubt one of the most fuel efficient SUVs ever made. But we’re not sure that would be enough to attract a lot of customers. Mitsubishi has just posted heavy losses and needs cars that can be sold quickly, which means they need to offer good value, good performance, and good looks. The PHEV only does good economy, and looks rather horrible. It’s not a very desirable car.