A quad-electric motor plug-in hybrid powertrain underpins Mitsubishi's new Elevance concept SUV, which could inform the next Outlander.
Taking to the stage at this year’s Tokyo motor show, Mitsubishi has unveiled the Elevance concept, a quad-motor plug-in hybrid SUV complete with matching trailer.
While exact powertrain details were not disclosed, the Japanese brand says the Elevance features four electric motors to power Mitsubishi’s Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel-drive system.
As a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), it also features a petrol engine compatible with carbon-neutral fuels that combines with the electric motors to “provide ample power” even “when paired with a trailer”, according to Mitsubishi.
Said trailer, also shown on stage, features the same exterior colour finish as the Elevance, and features a front-mounted spare tyre.
According to the release video, the Elevance is capable of various off-road scenarios such as sand and dirt driving – even when towing – but the concept car is expected to inform a future production vehicle, possibly the next-generation Outlander.
From the outside, Mitsubishi wanted to convey “elegance with strength” regardless of “polished urban scenes” or “bold adventures into uncharted territory” with the futuristic design.
Mitsubishi’s signature Dynamic Shield motif is still present thanks to the arrangement of the front lighting signature, while prominent underbody cladding features all-round the SUV.
In the rear, the tail-light signature is slimmed down and wraps around the rear quarter panels.
And if the sci-fi design was not enough to give away the Elevance’s concept car status, it also features freestyle doors that open to a three-row, six-seat layout.
Leather is used throughout the interior, but a Mitsubishi is touting an AI Co-Driver displayed through the instrument that can offer “personalised destination suggestions” and recommend driving modes based on external conditions.
Alongside the Elevance concept at the 2025 Tokyo motor show, Mitsubishi also rolled out the more rugged Delica D:5 protype with all-wheel drive, and the new Delica Mini Kei minivan.
Tung Nguyen has been in the automotive journalism industry for over a decade, cutting his teeth at various publications before finding himself at Drive in 2024. With experience in news, feature, review, and advice writing, as well as video presentation skills, Tung is a do-it-all content creator. Tung’s love of cars first started as a child watching Transformers on Saturday mornings, as well as countless hours on PlayStation’s Gran Turismo, meaning his dream car is a Nissan GT-R, with a Liberty Walk widebody kit, of course.
