Concept vehicles are usually just that, created to showcase the latest designs or technology but very unlikely to ever become a reality. However, the latest incarnations could, if Deputy Editor of What Car?- Ed Callow- is to be believed, break this mould. Here is a brief rundown of the three latest releases from Mitsubishi:
Concept XR-PHEV
Short for 'Crossover Runner'- the XR-PHEV is our favourite: designed to replace the ASX and compete with popular SUVs such as the Hyundai IX35 and Kia Sportage, it features a coupe-like roofline, slim-line headlights and is longer, wider and lower than the current ASX. What Car? have quoted Mitsubishi Motors in the UK MD- Lance Bradley- as saying that a very similar vehicle, with as many design cues as possible taken from this concept vehicle, should well be hitting British shores in a little under 2 years. All we have been advised so far is to expect a vastly expanding range over the next few years but we really hope this rumour is true! And it's not just us! Motoring publications and print press such as Telegraph and BBC News have also been raving about it.
Concept GC-PHEV
The 'Grand Cruiser' as it is known, is designed to be a full sized SUV (not dissimilar in size to the current Shogun) and would, apparently, feature the same plug-in hybrid technology as the Outlander PHEV which is arriving in the showroom early next year.
It would, however, be unlikely to include the 7 seat set-up that is offered currently as there would need to be some compromise with the additional weight of the battery system so as not to negatively compromise load capacity (an essential in an authentic off-roader such as the Shogun).
We won't get too excited just yet though, press articles suggest this won't be coming for several years.
Concept AR-PHEV
If this one was made a reality it would be somewhat of a reappearance of a mid-sized people carrier to the current range. The Grandis was the last- in production from 2004-2010- but this is a far more futuristic version! BBC News reported it as featuring manoeuvrable seating, allowing passengers to move to face each other if they so wish, as well as- what can only be described as- a giant touch screen 'tablet' table. Word has also reached us that a smaller SUV (to rival the Renault Captur and Nissan Juke) is currently in discussion over the table with Mitsubishi in Japan and would possibly be based on the Mirage.
Whatever happens, these are very exciting times for both Mitsubishi and us as a dealership. Having sold Mitsubishi vehicles for more than 25 years, we've seen more changes than most people have had hot dinners, and have never been so proud to be a part of it all. Watch this space!
