Mitsubishi to return to the UK with Eclipse Cross BEV
Mitsubishi is coming back to the UK, with its all-electric Eclipse Cross expected to lead the brand’s revival.
The Japanese manufacturer, famous for its rugged 4x4s and rally-bred super saloons, pulled out of the UK in 2021, saying it wanted to focus on more profitable core markets.
However, leading vehicle importer International Motors Ltd has now announced plans to introduce new Mitsubishi cars to the UK from summer 2026.
These models will be “drawn from Mitsubishi Motors’ global lineup” and “will bring the brand’s latest advancements in innovation and four-wheel drive technologies to the UK market”, according to IML.
While no specific vehicles are mentioned, that’s likely to include the new Eclipse Cross BEV, which was recently announced for the European market.
The Eclipse Cross BEV is based on the award-winning Renault Scenic E-Tech and uses the same CMF-EV platform as the Nissan Leaf. Visually, the new Mitsubishi gets a bespoke front end featuring an updated version of the brand’s “Dynamic Shield” with a 3D honeycomb pattern surrounding the three-diamond badge. It also gets unique running lights and a triangular motif for its 20-inch alloy wheels. Elsewhere, the car’s Renault roots show through.
Under the skin, the Eclipse Cross BEV, which will be assembled at Renault’s Douai factory, uses an 87kWh battery for a range of around 373 miles. It’s paired with a 215bhp front-mounted motor, and offers charging at up to 150kW. A “medium range” version is expected to join the line-up later, likely to use a 60kWh battery offered in the Renault Megane, which is also built on the CMF-EV platform.
The move could also see the reintroduction of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – the vehicle credited with helping kick-start the plug-in hybrid market in the UK.
Sharon Townsend, head of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, commented: “We’re delighted to be introducing exciting new Mitsubishi vehicles to our loyal UK customers.
“Over the past few years, we’ve continued to see enthusiasm for the brand, which has strongly influenced this decision. By building on our trusted aftersales network and dedicated retailer partners, we are committed to providing an exceptional ownership experience.”
Frank Krol, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Europe, added: “Our upcoming models represent the very best of Mitsubishi Motors’ core technologies in performance, four-wheel drive, and much more. We look forward to a successful introduction in the UK – a market where our brand continues to have a deep emotional connection with loyal customers.”
IML already imports a number of Japanese and Chinese brands into the UK, including Subaru, Isuzu, Xpeng and GWM.
