Mitsubishi launches an electric SUV with 459 HP that outperforms the most powerful Lancer Evolution

Mitsubishi has found a shortcut to expand its lineup of electric cars without having to develop a model from scratch. The Japanese brand has partnered with Foxconn, the Taiwanese tech giant, to launch an SUV that breaks away from what we’ve seen in its previous models, with performance being one of its main selling points.

The new Mitsubishi ASX VR-e is directly based on the Foxtron Bria, a model designed by Pininfarina. Its approach is very different from traditional Mitsubishi models, both in terms of origin and technology, though the brand believes its sales network and after-sales experience will help convince buyers. It is set to launch first in Australia, with prices to be announced later.

The range will consist of four versions, with the mechanical configuration changing significantly depending on the chosen finish. The three lower variants use an electric motor located in the rear axle, while the top-of-the-line model features a second engine to provide all-wheel drive. It is this latter version that makes the ASX VR-e one of the most eye-catching electric vehicles in Mitsubishi’s new era.

Mitsubishi ASX VR-e: Up to 459 HP and All-Wheel Drive

The Mitsubishi ASX VR-e GSR is the most powerful model in the series. It combines two electric motors to generate 459 horsepower (342 kW) and 700 Nm of torque, figures that enable it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. This is a performance level typically associated with high-performance sports cars, even though this is an electric SUV.

To put these numbers in perspective, compare them to those of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-440 MR, a special edition sold in the UK that boosted the performance of the iconic Japanese sedan to 440 horsepower. The new ASX VR-e GSR exceeds this figure, but it does so with a very different approach: instead of a combustion engine sports car, it is an all-wheel-drive electric model that prioritizes acceleration.

The other three versions, named LS, Aspire, and Exceed, are equipped with a single rear electric motor that delivers 229 HP (171 kW) and 350 Nm of torque. With this configuration, the ASX VR-e accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds, a figure that is quite reasonable for an SUV of this type and sufficient to provide good performance in everyday use.

All four versions come with Eco, Comfort, and Sport driving modes. On the GSR model, the Sport mode also adjusts the power distribution between the two axles, changing the configuration from 50% front to 50% rear to 30% front and 70% rear. In this way, Mitsubishi aims to give the highest-performance version a more sporty character, though it remains to be seen how well this tuning performs on the road.

The entire range uses a 57.7 kWh battery, a capacity that is quite modest compared to some current electric SUVs. As of now, Mitsubishi has not announced the certified range, but the available capacity suggests it will not be one of the model’s strengths, especially in the GSR version, which will need to power two electric motors.

The brand has also not specified how long it will take to recharge, though it has confirmed that it supports up to 134 kW in direct current and 6.6 kW in alternating current. The maximum power in direct current is not bad for a vehicle of this size, but the limited charging capacity in alternating current could be a drawback for those who want to make the most of home chargers or lower-powered public charging stations.

A different design and a well-equipped interior

The exterior design of the Mitsubishi ASX VR-e represents a break from the models the Japanese brand has traditionally sold. Its body style is derived directly from the Foxtron Bria and features Pininfarina’s design touches, with European-inspired lines that differ from Mitsubishi’s usual aesthetic. The result is a modern-looking SUV aimed at standing out in an increasingly competitive category.

Inside, the focus is on the screens. The dashboard features a central 15.6-inch screen for the multimedia system and another 9.2-inch screen for digital instruments. It also comes with a sporty-designed steering wheel, customizable ambient lighting, cameras for surround view, and an automatic parking system. The seats will be upholstered in fabric or leather, depending on the chosen version.

The Exceed and GSR trims include a panoramic glass roof, electric rear door, and a sound system with 12 speakers as standard. However, the interior design opts for a fairly subtle color combination: the cabin is available in black or gray, with blue stitching as a contrast element.