Mitsubishi reveals plug-in hybrid SUV concept, could form basis for Shogun replacement
Darren Moss
1 November 2013

Mitusbishi has revealed three new concept vehicles, which will be unveiled at the Tokyo motor show in November.

The Mitsubishi GC-PHEV concept has made its world debut at the Tokyo motor show.

The concept is a plug-in hybrid SUV, and uses Mitsubishi's electronic all-wheel drive system, named Super All-Wheel Control, to deliver what the company describes as "superior handling, stability as well as the all-terrain capability an SUV offers".

The concept also utilises both the latest driver safety systems, and also offers wi-fi driver support - making it what Mitsubishi describes as a 'connected vehicle'. The model could form the basis of a replacement for the current Shogun. The concept is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine coupled to a high-output electric motor and an 8-speed automatic gearbox. 

Dimensions for the SUV are 4930mm in length, 1940mm wide and 1980mm high.  The interior is dominated by a 'tactical table' - a cabin-length TV screen mounted on top of the central transmission tunnel. It displays occupants data, data from the car itself and maps. Mitsubishi says "It allows the creation of original maps and driving plans that occupants can share as they connect with the world."

The GC-PHEV concept forms one of a four-strong lineup from Mitsubishi, alongside models like the XR-PHEV compact plug-in hybrid SUV and the Concept AR MPV. The company is also showing its boxy eK Space model, which has already been earmarked for launch in Japan next year according to internet reports.

The company has already told Autocar that much of its future model line-ups rely on electrification and hybridisation. Last year, the company said it wanted to refresh its entire model range - beginning with the launch of the new Outlander earlier this year. Plans for the new Evo have also been revealed, with the car taking on a new plug-in hybrid persona to rival the Nissan GT-R.

A Mitsubishi spokesman told Autocar “Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has a significant amount of experience in the MPV market, launching the first seven-seat MPV, SpaceWagon, into the UK in 1983, followed by Grandis in 2004. Mitsubishi also sold the smaller MPV, Space Star, for six years in the UK.”

Mitsibushi also stated it aims for 20 per cent of its sales volume to be EVs by 2020.

The company also recently celebrated its 40th anniversary in Europe. Read more 2013 Tokyo motor show news.

Our Verdict

Mitsubishi Shogun

The Mitsubishi Shogun has its appeal. It needs more chassis finesse, but is still charming

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Comments
2

9 October 2013

Mitsubishi needs new models and these will do wonders.

DriverVIBE.com

....Celebrating Great Cars & Great Writing....

1 November 2013
Should have kept them in the dark. Pontiac's Aztek has nothing on these monstrosities!

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