Remember Mitsubishi? The Japanese car brand behind the Lancer Evo, Shogun 4x4, and the Outlander PHEV? After disappearing from UK roads in 2020, it could be gearing up for a surprise return.
Mitsubishi pulled the plug on its UK operations five years ago during a major cost-cutting move, blaming the pandemic and plummeting sales. That marked the end of a 46-year run, which started back in 1974 with the launch of the Colt Lancer.
But now, the brand’s European boss has hinted at a comeback. Mitsubishi re-entered some European markets last year thanks to its partnership with Renault and Nissan, and it’s now eyeing the UK once again.
Currently, it sells rebranded versions of Renault models – the Clio (now called the Mitsubishi Colt) and the Captur (rebadged as the ASX) – and it's relaunched the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid too.
Speaking to Autocar, Mitsubishi Motors Europe CEO Frank Krol said the UK is simply too big to ignore, and the brand has a “preferred route” for returning. He also made it clear that Mitsubishi isn’t just planning to rebadge Renaults – they want a proper lineup that makes sense for British drivers.
That could include the Outlander PHEV – a huge hit in the 2010s, especially with company car drivers thanks to its tax-friendly setup. Back in 2015, Boris Johnson (then Mayor of London) even test drove it in Tokyo and described the electric mode as “whining like a self-satisfied cat.”
Even though the brand officially shut up shop in the UK in 2021, there are still about 100 Mitsubishi dealerships across the country handling servicing and support for existing customers.
So, when might Mitsubishi be back? There's no official date yet. But with a facelifted Outlander due around 2027, that could be the moment they relaunch in full.
Other models that might hit UK roads include the Grandis (a rebadged Renault Symbioz) and a new all-electric Eclipse Cross, built on the same platform as the Renault Scenic and Nissan Ariya.
After four years away, is the brand still relevant? Time will tell – but with its fanbase, recognisable name, and fresh hybrid and electric options, Mitsubishi could be gearing up to turn heads again.
