The Japan Mobility Show is here, and Mitsubishi Motors has dropped a major hint about its electrified future with the world premiere of the Mitsubishi Elevance Concept. Far more than just a design study, this electrified crossover SUV is a high-tech, off-road-capable vision that signals a return to the brand’s adventurous roots, blending “Luxe Adventurer” styling with cutting-edge PHEV and AI technology.
Here’s a deep dive into why the Elevance Concept is turning so many heads in Tokyo.
Powering the Next-Generation Adventure
At the heart of the Elevance is a sophisticated Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) system, taking Mitsubishi’s expertise in this area to a new level.
- Quad-Motor 4WD: This is where the off-road prowess shines. The Elevance features a quad-motor setup with a motor at each wheel, integrated into Mitsubishi’s signature Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. This provides individual wheel traction control for superior handling and stability on any terrain—mud, snow, or rocky trails.
- Eco-Conscious PHEV: The powertrain uses a high-efficiency gasoline engine compatible with carbon-neutral fuels and a large-capacity traction battery. This configuration allows for electric-only daily driving while offering the range and flexibility of a hybrid for longer journeys.
- Glamping Ready: The large-capacity battery isn’t just for driving. It’s designed to supply external power, letting adventurers power a matching trailer equipped with a kitchen and shower—effectively turning the SUV into a luxurious, off-grid “glamping” base.
The AI Co-Driver: Your Personalized Navigator
Stepping into the cabin, you’re immediately greeted by a futuristic, screen-heavy interior that highlights the concept’s most intriguing technological feature: the AI Co-Driver.
- Personalized Journeys: This virtual assistant goes beyond simple navigation. It learns the driver’s habits and lifestyle, suggesting personalized destinations and routes for exploration. Prefer forest roads over highways? The AI remembers.
- Real-Time Optimization: The system constantly monitors the vehicle status and surrounding environment in real time, recommending the optimal drive mode based on detected road conditions, ensuring maximum safety and confidence.
- Cocoon of Comfort: The spacious three-row, six-passenger cabin (with a 2+2+2 layout) is designed as a seamless, shell-type form, projecting a sense of protection and comfort. Luxurious leather seating and a panoramic display spanning the entire dashboard complete the lounge-like experience, with front seats that can even swivel to face the rear passengers when parked.
“Luxe Adventurer” Design Language
The Elevance’s exterior is a bold statement, embodying the “Luxe Adventurer” design theme.
- Dynamic and Muscular: It features a striking blend of an elegant, almost seamless upper cabin and a taut, muscular lower body with chunky, trapezoidal wheel arches.
- Evolved Dynamic Shield: The front showcases the latest evolution of Mitsubishi’s signature Dynamic Shield design, now featuring a sophisticated honeycomb-structured front grille and multi-tier LED lighting.
- Panoramic Views: The design intentionally lowers the side windows below the character lines, giving passengers a better view of the surrounding scenery—perfect for those off-road excursions.
Is This the Return of the Montero/Pajero?
Perhaps the most exciting speculation surrounding the Elevance is its potential to preview the return of an iconic Mitsubishi off-roader, like the Montero or Pajero. The concept’s upright, imposing stance, three-row layout, and serious off-road technology certainly align with the spirit of the brand’s legendary flagship SUV.
While Mitsubishi hasn’t confirmed a production date, the Elevance Concept makes it clear that the brand is committed to delivering smart, sophisticated, and supremely capable vehicles. It’s a thrilling look at how Mitsubishi plans to define the next era of “Forever Adventure.”
