Mitsubishi readies trio of hybrid utility concepts for Tokyo

Fri, 01 Nov 2013

Mitsubishi has announced a trio of concept cars it will bring to the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, set to kick off later this month. The three concepts all sport new, edgy styling that is quite a departure from the Mitsus we see here in the states.

First up, we have the Concept GC-PHEV, which we're guessing is the middle vehicle in the photograph up top, as it's supposed to be a larger SUV - think Outlander for this one. From a powertrain standpoint, it sounds quite impressive. A 3.0-liter, supercharged, MIVEC V6 syncs up with an electric motor and a plug-in battery pack, while an an eight-speed automatic transmission dispatches power to all four wheels.

Next, we have the Concept XR-PHEV. We're taking a step down from the GC here, as the XR is meant to compete in the compact-crossover market, which means this could pre-sage the next Outlander Sport. Like the GC, though, it takes advantage of a hybrid powertrain, with a turbocharged, 1.1-liter direct-injection engine providing the grunt. The front-driver also sports a lightweight motor and battery, although specific details about both are scarce. We're thinking the XR-PHEV is the smaller, red vehicle on the right of the image up top.

Finally, the Mitsubishi AR is MPV, along the lines of a Ford C-Max or Toyota Prius V. It is also motivated by a 1.1-liter, turbocharged engine, but rather than featuring a plug-in system, the Concept AR is a mild hybrid. The AR is probably the green five-door, on the left side of the lead image. Take a look below for the full press release from Mitsubishi.

MITSUBISHI MOTORS LINEUP AT THE 2013 TOKYO MOTOR SHOW

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will unveil three world premiere concept cars at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013 on November 20. Incorporating a new design that symbolizes the functionality and reassuring safety inherent to SUVs, the three concepts take as their theme MMC's @earth TECHNOLOGY*1 and point to the direction MMC's development and manufacturing will take in the near future.

The MITSUBISHI Concept GC-PHEV is a next-generation full-size SUV with full-time 4WD. It is based on a front engine, rear-wheel drive layout plug-in hybrid EV (PHEV) system comprising a 3.0-liter V6 supercharged MIVEC engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with a high-output motor and a high-capacity battery to deliver all-terrain performance truly worthy of an all-round SUV.

The MITSUBISHI Concept XR-PHEV is a next-generation compact SUV developed to take driving pleasure to new levels. The MITSUBISHI Concept XR-PHEV uses a front engine, front-wheel drive layout PHEV system that is configured with a downsized 1.1-liter direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC engine and a lightweight, compact and high-efficiency motor with a high-capacity battery.

These two concepts feature PHEV systems optimally tailored to different market and segment requirements.

The MITSUBISHI Concept AR is a next-generation compact MPV which combines SUV maneuverability with MPV roominess. It uses a lightweight mild hybrid system which includes a downsized 1.1-liter direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC engine.

All three concepts feature MMC's latest "e-Assist"*2 active safety technologies and the advanced "connected car" technology that utilizes next-generation information systems. These functions include a danger detection system which activates the corresponding safety functions and a failure/malfunction early-detection system which urges the driver to seek repairs or other maintenance when necessary.

Including the three concept models, MMC will be displaying a total of 17 models (13 on press days) at its booth at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013. Joining the concepts will be the new eK Space "super height wagon" minicar due for launch in Japan at the beginning of next year, motorsport vehicles and some current production models.

For more information on the three Mitsubishi Motors concept cars that will premiere at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, please log on to Tokyo-motorshow.com/en/.

*1: @earth TECHNOLOGY embraces a collection of advanced next-generation technologies embodying the principles of environmental responsibility, driving pleasure and toughness and safety.

*2: A collection of active safety technologies including ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), FCM (Forward Collision Management), LDW (Lane Departure Warning). "e-Assist" name used in Japan only.

About Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells sedans and crossovers/SUVs through a network of approximately 400 dealers. MMNA is leading the way in the development of highly-efficient, affordably-priced new gasoline-powered automobiles while using its industry-leading knowledge in battery electric vehicles to develop future EV and PHEV models. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

By Brandon Turkus