Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV could hint at next-gen Montero [w/video]

Thu, 21 Nov 2013

In desperate need of some competitive new products, Mitsubishi showed up at the Tokyo Motor Show with three concept vehicles. The most important of them might just be this fullsize Concept GC-PHEV (Grand Cruiser). With its full-time four-wheel-drive system and roughly the right package size, we can only hope it hints at a future design for the Pajero/Montero.

Longer, taller and wider than the current Pajero (which is still offered in other markets), the Concept GC-PHEV is a big SUV with a fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain. A 335-horsepower, 3.0-liter supercharged V6 and an eight-speed automatic transmission are paired with a 94-hp electric motor and high-capacity battery to provide some serious brawn in a green wrapper. The result is targeted fuel consumption of 15 kilometers/liter on the Japanese cycle (around 35 miles per gallon) to go with an all-electric driving range of more than 25 miles.

Mitsubishi's styling team has arguably done a much better job with this Tokyo trio than we've seen from recent new products like the Outlander and Mirage, possibly suggesting a future design language for the automaker. In true concept car fashion, the design is Concept GC-PHEV is over the top, but it's not hard to imagine a vehicle of this size with similar cues gracing the Mitsubishi lineup at some point in the near future. Likewise, while the concept's interior only seats four, the sheer size of this vehicle could easily allow three rows of seats for a production model.

For more on the Grand Cruiser, check out some press information and a short video by scrolling down.

Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV

The Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV blazes new trails with powerful driving performance thanks to its full-time 4WD Plug-in Hybrid EV System; excellent stability and road handling that S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) provides; and information power that an innovative human interface and Connected Car technology together bring. Offering the latest environmental performance, this vehicle empowers you to drive freely on the Earth while enjoying safety and peace of mind. Experience the reliability and satisfaction of driving the Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV.

EXTERIOR

A dynamic front face with SUV personality. A futuristic form that looks sculpted from a single block and wraps the vehicle with the strength to drive on any road.

INTERIOR
When you open the easy-access doors with no center pillar, the spacious cabin and futuristic interface catch your eye. Enter a progressive informational space that stimulates your adventurous heart. The door to a new driving experience is now opening.

CONNECTED "TACTICAL TABLE"
A large interface with a touch screen, sweeping wide through the center, collects information that passengers bring, information from the internet, and data accumulated by the vehicle itself, allowing the creation of original maps and driving plans that occupants can share as they connect with the world. The Connected Car possibilities expand from here.

AR WINDSHIELD
Vital driving information is displayed on the windshield to enhance navigation and warn of car distances and lane departures. A driving assist system that uses communication technology also enhances driving safety by notifying the driver with guidance and a warning when vehicles or pedestrians enter blind spots in intersections.
AR:Augmented Reality

NEW PHEV SYSTEM
The FR-type Plug-in Hybrid EV system effectively employs engine and motor power. The 3.0-liter V6 supercharged MIVEC engine is assisted by a 70kW high output motor that provides dynamic performance. This system realizes low energy consumption while achieving CO2 emissions under 100 g/km and supremely quiet operation.
SPECIFICATION : CONCEPT GC-PHEV

By Jeffrey N. Ross