Off-grid weekend mode: Hitting the road with the Outlander PHEV

Some weekends just come together perfectly: the weather is on our side, the roads are smooth and our car becomes the ideal companion for a well-deserved getaway. That weekend, our Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV gave us more than just a way to get around. It was our rolling home, our peaceful haven between adventures. We couldn’t have asked for better.

The detour that feels just right

It all started on a Friday evening, with bags hastily packed (classic), and Zak dropped off at his favorite grandma’s place. We left the Eastern Townships of Quebec with our final destination set for the Mégantic region. But before diving into forests and mountains, a quick urban detour was a must.

We headed to Brossard. Yes, we know — not exactly on the way — but we needed a little city fix. Wandering through thrift shops, stopping for a good meal, and most importantly, enjoying an evening just the two of us, without toys scattered everywhere.

Hotel Escad, right in the heart of Quartier DIX30, was our cozy nest for the night. Modern, quiet and just steps away from everything we love. And honestly, after an intense week of family logistics, a king bed and a rainfall shower beat any spa in the world.

Coffee, roads and comfort

The next morning, Zak joined us, all smiles and ready for adventure. As soon as we hit the road, we realized just how much the Outlander PHEV was going to be our nap-time MVP. It’s amazing how a car can change the whole vibe of a road trip. The silence. The real kind.

First a quick coffee stop at Ditchfield Café — their flat white is a masterpiece. Then we hit the road again, surrounded by increasingly lush, wild scenery.

As we neared the mountains, our favorite playlist played softly while Zak was still sleeping (yes, still). We made our way to Cécile Lodge, a four-season outdoor centre tucked deep in the mountains — a real hidden gem for backcountry skiers and mountain bikers. Our stay for the night: a Go-Box, a minimalist micro-home powered by solar panels. No Wi-Fi, no signal, just us and nature.

Totally off-grid, with no sound but the natural world. And here, we truly appreciated the hybrid aspect of the Outlander PHEV. Having a car that can handle long distances, winding forest roads, and electric range on top of that — it’s one less thing to worry about when you’re far from civilization.

Rain began to fall softly in the evening, adding to the cozy ambiance of our cabin. The scent of the damp forest, the mountain mist, the flickering fire — it felt like a little dream.

Mud, bikes and a slow return

The next morning, we woke up with a woodpecker right next to us (literally), and Zak was bursting with energy. After sipping coffee by a small campfire, we decided to go for a ride using mountain bikes rented right on-site. The trails started right outside our cabin! Once again, the Mitsubishi Outlander came through. Even with a baby seat, a kid’s bike, our luggage, our city purchases, and two long-legged adults, we had more than enough space. Everything fit easily — no Tetris required.

After some hilly kilometres on the mountain bikes (and a few controlled wipeouts), we stored the bikes, topped up the battery on the PHEV while enjoying a delicious brunch at the village restaurant, and headed back toward the Eastern Townships. And just like on the way there, Zak fell asleep as soon as the engine started.

That weekend, we realized that going away doesn’t always have to be a big expedition. A reliable, comfortable and well-designed vehicle makes every departure easier, every detour more enjoyable. Its electric mode promotes a soft, quiet, almost serene drive. Its combined range and spacious interior allow you to go far — without compromise. This weekend in nature let us slow down, make new family memories, and above all, savor the joy of the journey.

We can’t wait for the next road trip!

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