The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid has taken longer to arrive on U.S. shores than almost any other plug-in vehicle in recent memory.

A plug-in hybrid Outlander crossover was first previewed as a concept at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, and was originally slated to go on sale in the U.S. in 2013.

That didn't happen.

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Instead, multiple delays pushed the Outlander Plug-In Hybrid's U.S. launch back repeatedly long after Japanese and European sales commenced.

Only now, at the 2016 New York Auto Show, is Mitsubishi unveiling a prototype U.S version (with final spec yet to be determined) of its first plug-in hybrid utility vehicle.

The 2017 Outlander Plug-In Hybrid adopts the same body style as the refreshed Outlander unveiled in New York almost exactly a year ago.

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid

The powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, two electric motors, and a 12-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack (although final U.S. spec may involve different battery specs).

One electric motor works with the gasoline engine to drive the front wheels, while the second motor powers the rear wheels, giving the Outlander a "through the road" all-wheel drive system.

ALSO SEE: Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid: Gas Mileage Drive Report (Sep 2014)

Mitsubishi said the system would offer "high electric range and combined mpg," but wasn't willing to provide specific estimates.

The Outlander is rated at 32.5 miles of electric range on the highly-optimistic European testing cycle.

Mitsubishi also claims the Outlander Plug-In Hybrid will be able to provide backup electric power, through 110-volt outlets located in the center console and cargo area.

In the U.S., the Outlander Plug-In Hybrid will be fully outfitted with technology features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone interfaces, and a surround-view camera system.

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid

But it won't be offered with the CHAdeMO DC fast-charging system available in other markets.

If Mitsubishi had put it on sale when it originally intended, the Outlander could have been the first plug-in hybrid SUV available in the U.S.

But thanks to the many delays, the Outlander is being beaten to the punch by several luxury models, including the Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid, BMW X5 xDrive40e, and Volvo XC90 T8 "Twin Engine."

MORE: 2017 Mitsubishi Plug-In Hybrid To Lose Quick-Charging Port In U.S.

Still, the Mitsubishi will be the first plug-in hybrid utility vehicle offered by a mainstream brand, and should sell for a lower price that will make it accessible to a wider audience.

We'll know for sure when the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid finally arrives in showrooms late this fall.

For more 2016 New York Auto Show coverage, head over to our show news hub.

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