- Mitsubishi displayed seven outdoor-inspired models at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon, most of which will not be available in the United States.
- The Japanese automaker showcased a combination of all-electric kei cars and full-size SUVs with accessories installed by dealers Ralliart.
- The Outlander Vision concept featured a more powerful plug-in-hybrid powertrain with large wheels, brakes and a wider stance that made the three-row SUV look aggressive and intimidating.
When MitsubishiTheir lineup in the US is barely large enough to rub together to catch fire, and the selection of Delica kei and minivans available in Japan flourishes. Seven models debuted at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon, ranging from an all-electric concept to a plug-in-hybrid Outlander with off-road tires and a roof-mounted tent roof.
The K-EV concept X Style is Mitsubishi’s next generation all-electric kei, aka compact city car. While it’s not what’s available here, the K-EV is interesting thanks to its toaster-like shape that maximizes space in a small package. The copper roof celebrates the intricate guts of the electric motor that drives it. The Japanese government regulates the outside dimensions, horsepower and displacement of these cute sized kei cars. Think MirageMitsubishi, but slightly smaller and better looking. Because of those regulations, the concept uses smaller hardware consisting of 15-inch wheels that are bolted to the axle with just four lugs.
Mitsubishi K-EV Concept X Style
The Delica, which has not been sold in the US since the 1990s, is still offered in the Japanese market as a compact van. The Delica D:5 Tough x Tough for the Tokyo salon is outfitted with Ralliart accessories that don’t quite turn it into a Hulk but add a lift suspension, 16-inch wheels, a bumper and a roof tent. Although it may look more like a lunch box next to a ready camp Toyota tundraThe Delica’s second and third rows of seats fold flat to create sleeping space and essentially turn this minivan into a two-story tent.
Mitsubishi Delica D:5 Tough x Tough
On the particularly interesting aspect of the Mitsubishi show is this kei Minicab-MiEV B-Leisure. The spirit of self-sustainability lives on in this metal one-person tent, built with a flat loading deck, desk and chair for remote working. The minicab also acts as a power supply for kitchen appliances such as a kettle or coffee maker and can also keep the laptop from running out of juice. Maybe it’s not as impressive as electricity Ford F-150 Lightning can power an entire house, but it’s still useful for the casual camper. Thanks to the electric drivetrain, the rear-wheel-drive Minicab is also exceptionally quiet so as not to wake other campers or disturb the peace around it.
Mitsubishi Minicab-MiEV B-Entertainment style
Mitsubishi also shows a small number of vehicles also available in the US A Ralliart foreigner plug-in-hybrid SUV and smaller Cross eclipse highlight a package of subtle appearance. The List of accessories Ralliart pays homage to the legendary motorsport division, offering an exciting selection of race-inspired items. Ralliart decals, light-colored fenders, and rear door spoiler can be added as dealer-installed options—that is, if you’re shopping in Japan.
A less impressive Outlander is also painted in Black Diamond with camping accessories from Ogawa, the Japanese outdoorwear brand. Roof baskets, trailer hooks and extra camping accessories make this PHEV ready for any jungle, but the Toyo Open Country off-road tires feature white lettering to help denote its speciality.
If you wondered what the Outlander would look like after taking creatine for a few months, the Vision Ralliart concept solves that mystery. Higher ground clearance, large JDM wheels and an impressive rear diffuser try to match the purpose of this sport-tuned SUV. Mitsubishi says the Ralliart concept has more horsepower and larger brake discs clamped by giant six-piston calipers up front. Huge 22-inch wheels and wider Yokohama Advan Sport performance tires give the Outlander a more aggressive look and feel. The new front end and wider fenders make the Outlander look almost as intimidating as a car Lexus LX Sports F.
We hope some of these accessories and the excitement inside the Mitsubishi show at the Tokyo Auto Salon translate into something exciting on our side on this giant rock. Until then, outdoor Outlander lovers will be forced to add accessories to their SUV the old-fashioned way: with a few self-tapping screws and too many trips to Harbor Freight.
This content was imported from a poll. You can find the same content in a different format or you can find more information at their website.
