The Most Mitsubishi Aspect of Its New Hybrid SUV Could Be the Logo | Carscoops

      The Mitsubishi Grandis, based on the Renault Symbioz, made its debut in Europe as a roomier, longer option than the ASX, aimed at family buyers.

      The Grandis is essentially a rebadged version of the Renault Symbioz, featuring minor adjustments to its exterior and branding. It will be available in Europe with a variety of hybrid and mild-hybrid powertrain choices.

      Mitsubishi is gradually expanding its European lineup with models that utilize Renault's platforms and come with electrified powertrains. The latest addition, the Grandis, is a compact family SUV that shares its underlying structure and much of its design with the Renault Symbioz.

      The Grandis name, which was previously associated with a three-row minivan sold between 2003 and 2011, is now being revived for this two-row SUV. The name, derived from Latin meaning “large and impressive,” refers to a larger, more spacious version of the refreshed Mitsubishi ASX, which is itself a rebadged Renault Captur. While Mitsubishi has made some styling changes to distinguish it from its French counterpart, the Grandis is primarily a rebadged vehicle.

      Familiar Design with Mitsubishi Touches

      The front design closely resembles that of the smaller ASX, featuring a glossy black grille and satin silver accents. The headlights are identical to those of the Symbioz, although the daytime running lights have a slightly altered signature. The profile remains largely unchanged from the French version, except for the 19-inch alloy wheels and Mitsubishi’s own “Hybrid EV” badges on the doors.

      At the rear, the Grandis appears more stylish compared to the French SUV it is based on. The new taillights could easily fit onto a modern Mitsubishi Evo sedan, while the revamped tailgate boasts bold dynamic lines. The bumper, however, retains the carry-over fake vents.

      Inside the Grandis, the likeness continues. The cabin mirrors that of the Renault model, except for the Mitsubishi logo on the steering wheel. It accommodates five passengers and offers a trunk capacity ranging from 434 to 566 liters (15.3 to 20 cubic feet), contingent on the positioning of the sliding rear bench. Key features include a powered remote tailgate, a panoramic glass roof with electrochromic dimming, a 10.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, and an extensive array of driver-assistance technologies.

      Under the chassis, the Grandis is built on an extended variant of Renault–Nissan’s CMF-B platform and offers a choice between mild-hybrid and full-hybrid setups. The entry-level option features a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with mild-hybrid assistance, generating 138 hp (103 kW / 140 PS). This version directs power to the front wheels via either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

      The new SUV is also equipped with Renault’s updated self-charging hybrid technology, combining a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter engine with two electric motors, a multi-mode gearbox, and a 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery. Collectively, this system yields 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS), again powering only the front wheels.

      European Rollout and Local Manufacturing

      The Grandis will be produced at Renault’s Valladolid plant in Spain, being manufactured alongside the Symbioz. Its rollout across European markets is set to begin later this year, and it will soon be followed by the introduction of a fully electric Eclipse Cross, closely associated with the Renault Scenic E-Tech.

      “Following the launch of the Outlander PHEV last year, we are enhancing our lineup in the European market with the introduction of the entirely new Grandis, showcasing Mitsubishi Motors’ Dynamic Shield design,” stated Tatsuo Nakamura, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors. “With the subsequent launch of the Eclipse Cross BEV model around the same time, we aim to provide a diverse selection of electrified vehicles - HEV, PHEV, and BEV - to cater to the varied preferences of our customers.”