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Mitsubishi has officially taken the wraps off its long-awaited electric crossover, the ASX VR-e, marking the brand's first pure-electric model for mass markets since the i-MiEV. The new model, built in partnership with electronics giant Foxconn, is initially slated for the Australian market in the fourth quarter of 2026. However, the reveal raises questions about a potential US arrival, given the vehicle's competitive specs and Mitsubishi's need to electrify its lineup.
Date: March 18, 2025
A New Chapter with Foxconn
The ASX VR-e is based on the Foxtron Bria platform, co-developed with Foxconn. Mitsubishi will continue selling the combustion-powered ASX (built in France and based on the Renault Captur) alongside the new EV. The "VR-e" badge nods to the legendary Galant VR-4, signaling sporty intent. The brand claims extensive local testing and tuning have been carried out by global and regional teams to tailor the car for different markets.
Performance and Range Expectations
While Mitsubishi hasn't confirmed full technical specs for the US, the Foxtron Bria platform gives clear clues. Overseas models offer a single 57.7kWh LFP battery pack, with rear-wheel drive (171kW) or all-wheel drive (299kW). The AWD variant can hit 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.9 seconds – a figure that rivals premium EVs. Range is rated at 516 km (321 miles) for RWD and 466 km (290 miles) for AWD, though these are NEDC figures. EPA estimates would likely be lower, around 250-280 miles for the RWD version. DC fast charging maxes out at 134kW, delivering a 10-80% charge in roughly 30 minutes.
Design and Interior
Visually, the ASX VR-e shares the Foxtron Bria's silhouette but adds unique Mitsubishi lighting signatures, badging, and wheel designs. Inside, expect a large central touchscreen, a small digital instrument cluster, a floating center console, and other contemporary touches. Mitsubishi promises unique interior appointments to differentiate it from the Foxconn base.
Why It Matters for the US Market
Mitsubishi’s current US lineup is heavily combustion-focused, consisting of the Outlander, Outlander Sport, Eclipse Cross, and Mirage (discontinued). The ASX VR-e could become a crucial entry-level EV for the brand, competing with the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and upcoming Ford Explorer EV. Under stricter US fuel economy regulations (CAFE) and EPA emissions standards, a volume EV is essential to avoid penalties. The ASX VR-e’s compact crossover form factor is ideal for the growing affordable EV segment.
Pricing and Availability
The ASX VR-e will launch in Australia in Q4 2026 in four trims: LS, Aspire, Exceed, and GSR. No US pricing has been announced, but analysts estimate a starting price between $30,000 and $35,000 before incentives, undercutting the Tesla Model Y. Mitsubishi has not confirmed a US launch, but given the brand's presence and the platform's global nature, a stateside release is plausible for late 2026 or early 2027. The company is reportedly investing in plant upgrades in Thailand for the next-gen Pajero, which could also support North American EV production.
Competitive Landscape
The ASX VR-e faces stiff competition from established players. Tesla Model Y starts around $44,000, while the Chevy Bolt EUV is priced at $28,000. The Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $34,000. Mitsubishi will need to leverage its reputation for reliability and value, along with the VR-e's sporty performance, to carve out a niche. The brand's dealer network in the US is relatively small, which could be a hurdle.
The Bottom Line
Mitsubishi's ASX VR-e represents a bold step into the mainstream EV arena. With Foxconn's manufacturing expertise and Mitsubishi's tuning, it could be a compelling option. However, the US market remains uncertain. For now, the EV is confirmed for Australia, but the specs and strategy suggest a global rollout. Stay tuned for official announcements closer to the 2026 launch window.
