Mitsubishi Sizes Up SUV Differences

Mitsubishi Motors Corp. plans to better differentiate its SUV/crossover vehicle lineup as it begins to launch next-generation models over the next 18 months, Autocar reports.

Company sources tell the U.K.-based enthusiast magazine that there will be a greater size difference—at least 200 mm (8 inches) in overall length—among the compact ASX, mid-level Eclipse Cross and top-end Outlander. As a result, the next-generation Outland will be larger and the ASX will be smaller than their current counterparts.

The strategy is similar to that used by alliance partner Nissan Motor Co. with its Juke, Qashqai and X-Trail lineup, Autocar notes. Mitsubishi also will increasingly share platforms with Nissan and Renault.

The next-generation Outlander will continue to be offered with a stand-alone piston engine and as plug-in hybrid, the source tells Autocar. Mitsubishi teased the new model with the Engelberg Tourer concept vehicle (pictured) that the company unveiled at the Geneva auto show in March. The concept features a plug-in hybrid architecture that teamed a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors and a 20-kWh battery.

The Eclipse Cross and ASX also will get electrified options, with the former being some sort of hybrid system and the latter an all-electric drivetrain. The vehicles fit Mitsubishi’s strategy of electrifying current models rather than launching a stand-alone hybrid or electric vehicle.