Mitsubishi Ralliart Concept Hints at More Performance-Oriented SUVs

Mitsubishi has revived its motorsports-inspired Ralliart sub-brand for a new concept crossover based on the 2023 Outlander PHEV.

Dubbed the Vision Ralliart, this concept crossover features a revised front fascia with active grille shutters and a large new lower intake vent. Flared wheel arches house a set of aerodynamic 22-inch alloy wheels, which are shod in sticky rubber and hide larger performance brakes with more powerful six-piston calipers. There's also a new rear fascia with different LED taillights and pronounced lower diffuser with a centre-mounted brake light.

Mitsubishi didn't provide any technical details on the Vision Ralliart, only saying it features a “higher motor output, sportier four-wheel control tuning, and enhanced battery capacity." The concept is based on the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which pairs a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with a small electric motor and 20-kWh battery to provide roughly 83 kilometres of electric range. Horsepower output for the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has yet to be confirmed.

While the Vision Ralliart is only a concept, it serves as a precursor to the official re-launch of Mitsubishi's Ralliart sub-brand. Ralliart was first established in the 1980s as Mitsubishi's racing-inspired performance arm and rose to prominence in North America through its limited-edition versions of the iconic Lancer.

It's currently not clear if the Ralliart sub-brand will be coming to Canada, although we think this could be a great way for Mitsubishi to broaden the appeal of its future plug-in hybrid and EV models. It would also be useful for differentiating its performance EVs from regular mass-market models.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will be on display at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon from January 14 to 16.