Mitsubishi unveils plug-in hybrid 4x4 SUV concept
Adventure-ready six-seat SUV concept unveiled in Tokyo – could spawn Pajero revivalThe News
Mitsubishi’s Elevance Concept has been unveiled at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show and the electrified four-wheel drive SUV could signal the brand’s intent to revive its popular Pajero off-roader.
The Key Details
- Mitsubishi Elevance Concept previews off-road SUV with six-seats
- Plug-in hybrid with quad-motor 4x4 system
- AI co-driver which can suggest personalised destinations
- Swivelling front seats, spacious cabin, and leather upholstery
- Not yet confirmed for production
The Finer Details
Revealed at Tokyo motor show, the Elevance Concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a quad-motor 4WD system, a “large capacity” battery and the brand’s Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, delivering versatile performance across both on-road and off-road conditions.
According to the Japanese brand, the Elevance Concept is also compatible with carbon-neutral fuel to deliver “the clean, exhilarating performance of an electric motor drive,” although no performance or efficiency figures have been provided.
The concept SUV wears a radical exterior finished in a rose gold hue, with a (mostly) enclosed grille at the front, a stacked LED lighting signature, and illuminated Mitsubishi badges at either end.
Cameras on small stalks replace conventional side mirrors, while the rear end features a full-width light bar and tail lights that extend up either side of the rear window. The SUV also rides on striking, albeit impractical-looking wheels.
Inside the cabin, three rows of leather-clad seats (two per row) are fitted, while the driver is fed important driving information via a large monitor that extends almost the entire width of the dash.
An AI Co-Driver is also on-board, displayed on an LCD screen embedded in the steering wheel and instrument panel. It offers destination suggestions tailored to the driver and uses vehicle sensors to analyse real-time road conditions and vehicle status, recommending optimal drive modes accordingly.
Those after more of a ‘glamping’ experience are also catered for, with Mitsubishi designing a matching rose gold camper trailer equipped with a kitchen and shower. When parked, it can be powered by the SUV’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system.
The Road Ahead
While not confirmed for production, the Mitsubishi Elevance Concept hints at what a modern-day revival of the popular Pajero could look like, aligning with the brand’s ‘Forever Adventure’ theme at this year’s auto show. The concept was unveiled alongside a new Delica off-road van prototype and updated Delica Mini kei car.
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