A Genuine Mitsubishi Ralliart SUV Might Be Nearer Than You Anticipate | Carscoops

      Mitsubishi indicates that a performance-oriented SUV is being considered, influenced by motorsport and customized for various markets.

      The company is examining a performance-focused Outlander bearing the Ralliart branding. Senior executives have confirmed that development studies and market-specific plans are underway, and a potential production model of the Vision Ralliart concept could draw inspiration from rallying.

      Historically, Mitsubishi has not fully entered the high-performance SUV market, despite its rally legacy and a range of genuinely sporty models in the past. Nevertheless, the brand still entertains the possibility of a more dynamic direction for the Outlander, with the Ralliart label reemerging.

      More than three years after unveiling the Vision Ralliart concept at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Show, Mitsubishi has yet to produce a model based on it. Despite this, long-time fans of the brand may have reasons to be cautiously optimistic.

      Insights from Mitsubishi suggest that Kentaro Honda, the Chief Engineer for the Mitsubishi Outlander, hinted at the existence of a Ralliart variant in the works. He stated that future models could take cues from Mitsubishi’s rally experience, specifically from motorsport events in Asia. In a discussion with Australian publication Drive, Honda noted: “We are still investigating. We participated in the Asia Cross-Country Rally, so based on that rally experience, we’ll consider how and when to develop the Ralliart version.” Though this doesn't confirm anything, it implies that the company is at least laying the necessary groundwork.

      Shaun Westcott, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Australia, echoed this sentiment. He noted that there are “a number of studies underway” aimed at creating a high-performance Outlander, with plans for a final product likely to be tailored for specific markets. Westcott also highlighted the brand’s goal to incorporate learnings from its rallying background into future models, affirming that “there are definitely a number of active studies ongoing in this space.”

      Westcott made clear his discontent with Ralliart appearance packages found in Thailand and the Philippines, saying, “I declined the sticker packs. I was not happy with taking on sticker packs and calling it a Ralliart. If Australia adopts something like that, we are indeed seeking enhancements in the actual vehicle.”

      The latest generation of the Mitsubishi Outlander, launched in 2021, received a mid-cycle update earlier this year, which included a more powerful plug-in hybrid system delivering 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS), a larger 22.7 kWh battery, and improved suspension tuning.

      Should Mitsubishi proceed with a genuine Ralliart version, it could enhance these features with added horsepower, refined AWD tuning, upgraded brakes, and firmer suspension settings. The outcome would be a more engaging, rally-inspired SUV designed for practical use, such as grocery shopping and transporting children.

      A visual refresh is also likely. While it may not adopt a completely radical concept-car design, elements from the Vision Ralliart could be included, such as redesigned bumpers, a distinct grille, fender flares, a functional rear diffuser featuring an integrated brake light, and potentially large alloy wheels. The concept showcased 22-inch rims, though a production model would likely favor a more practical size.

      An Outlander Ralliart would join a new trend of sporty SUVs alongside competitors like the Toyota RAV4 GR-Sport and the anticipated VW Tiguan R. There is hope that Mitsubishi will bring it to the U.S. market.