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After an eight-year absence from the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market, Mitsubishi is staging a comeback. The company, which withdrew the quirky but pioneering i-MiEV in 2017, is preparing to launch an all‑new electric crossover in North America in summer 2026. Based on the new Nissan Leaf platform, this vehicle represents Mitsubishi’s attempt to re-establish itself in a competitive EV landscape dominated by Tesla, Hyundai/Kia, Ford, and a quickly expanding list of global challengers.
Beyond just a new model, the vehicle symbolizes Mitsubishi’s broader ambitions under its Momentum 2030 business plan, which outlines a roadmap of introducing a new or significantly refreshed model every year between 2026 and 2030. This article examines what we know so far about Mitsubishi’s upcoming EV, compares it with rivals, and considers what it means for both the automaker and U.S. consumers.
Mitsubishi EV Relaunch: Why Now?
Mitsubishi has long been a niche brand in the United States, relying heavily on crossovers like the Outlander, Outlander PHEV, Outlander Sport, and Eclipse Cross for volume. With American consumers rapidly embracing SUVs and electrification, Mitsubishi simply could not afford to sit out the next stage of the market.
Unlike Toyota and Honda, which invested in hybrids for decades before making full EV commitments, Mitsubishi’s EV credibility suffered after the i-MiEV failed to resonate with buyers. It was underpowered, had limited range (~62 miles), and was outclassed by rivals even in its time. Today, though, electric infrastructure, consumer perceptions, and government incentives have created a more favorable environment.
The key enabler is Mitsubishi’s alliance with Nissan. Rather than developing an expensive EV platform from scratch, Mitsubishi will leverage Nissan’s updated Leaf architecture, which has been modernized to stay competitive. This approach allows Mitsubishi to control costs and deliver a competitive product quickly.
What We Know About the New Mitsubishi EV
While Mitsubishi has not yet revealed the final nameplate or full technical details, several important attributes are already confirmed or strongly hinted:
- Platform and Design
- The crossover will borrow heavily from the Nissan Leaf hatchback, reshaped into a compact SUV form.
- Expect Mitsubishi styling cues, possibly aligned with the Outlander’s “Dynamic Shield” design, giving it bolder looks than the Leaf.
- Mitsubishi’s teaser images suggest LED light signatures, a more upright stance, and subtle SUV touches to position it as a crossover rather than a hatchback.
- Charging Technology
- The vehicle will use the Tesla-designed NACS (North American Charging Standard) port, giving buyers direct access to Tesla’s Supercharger network — a critical selling point in the U.S.
- This instantly removes one obstacle buyers face with non-Tesla EVs: charging convenience.
- Size and Positioning
- Roughly three‑quarters the size of a Tesla Model Y, placing it closer in size to the Chevrolet Equinox EV or Hyundai Kona Electric.
- As Mitsubishi’s fifth crossover, it will sit strategically as a more affordable EV option beneath premium Outlander trims.
- Expected Range and Battery
- The Nissan Leaf currently offers 40 kWh and 60 kWh battery packs with ranges of 150 miles and 212 miles, respectively.
- Industry analysts expect Mitsubishi’s version to target over 250 miles of range, aligning with buyer expectations for 2026.
- A likely 60–65 kWh battery will strike a balance between affordability and range, though higher trims might push capacity further.
- Performance and Driving Dynamics
- If based heavily on the Leaf, output could be in the range of 150–215 horsepower, driving the front wheels.
- However, Mitsubishi may differentiate with available all-wheel drive (AWD) — a feature it has leaned on with the Outlander and Eclipse Cross. An AWD electric crossover at a mainstream price point would give Mitsubishi an edge in colder U.S. regions.
Comparison: Mitsubishi EV vs. Rivals
To grasp Mitsubishi’s potential, it’s helpful to place the vehicle against current U.S. market competitors: Model Range (EPA est.) Price (est. base) Charging Notes Mitsubishi EV (est.) 250–275 miles $32–37k Tesla NACS access Based on Nissan Leaf; possible AWD Nissan Leaf (2025) 149–212 miles $29–36k CHAdeMO (limited network) Value-friendly, but weaker range and charging Chevy Equinox EV 250–300 miles $34–39k NACS/CCS Compact SUV styling; affordable GM Ultium platform Hyundai Kona Electric 261 miles $34k+ CCS → NACS by 2025 Strong efficiency, tech-heavy interior Tesla Model Y 260–310 miles $44k+ Tesla Supercharger network Top-selling EV in the U.S., benchmark crossover VW ID.4 209–275 miles $40k CCS, moving to NACS Spacious, practical, German engineering
From this comparison, Mitsubishi’s advantages could come from two things:
- Affordability: If priced below $37,000 before incentives, it undercuts Tesla by a wide margin while competing head‑on with Chevy and Hyundai.
- Charging Access: The early adoption of the NACS standard gives it a major charging convenience edge over Hyundai/Kia until their transition is complete.
The Role of Mitsubishi’s Momentum 2030 Strategy
The upcoming EV is not just a one-off experiment. According to Mitsubishi’s roadmap:
- 2025: Revised Outlander sets the stage.
- 2026–2030: A new or refreshed model every year in North America, including additional EVs and plug-in hybrids.
- Late 2020s: Possible introduction of a new overlander-inspired van (based on the D:X Concept) into the U.S. market.
If carried out successfully, this plan could transform Mitsubishi from a struggling niche player into a brand with more consistent new-model energy. North American buyers have long penalized Mitsubishi for its aging lineup. Fresh product cadence is exactly what is needed.
Challenges Mitsubishi Faces
Despite the excitement, challenges remain:
- Brand Strength in the U.S.
- Mitsubishi’s sales and dealer network are smaller compared to rivals. The brand needs aggressive marketing and dealer training to reassure buyers about its long-term EV support.
- Consumer Trust in EV Range
- While Nissan’s Leaf platform is proven, Mitsubishi must push range to 250+ miles to remain competitive. Anything less risks disappointing buyers in 2026.
- Competition
- Tesla, GM, Hyundai, Kia, and the emerging wave of Chinese automakers entering global markets are fierce rivals. Mitsubishi must bring something unique — such as low cost, AWD capability, or generous warranties — to stand out.
What It Means for U.S. Buyers
For buyers, the new Mitsubishi EV could tick several boxes:
- Affordability with range: Potentially below the EV market’s average transaction price.
- Crossover practicality: The most popular segment in the U.S.
- Peace of mind in charging: Direct access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
- Choice: Mitsubishi plans to offer internal combustion, plug-in hybrid, and full EV options so consumers can decide based on need.
This variety gives Mitsubishi broader appeal than competitors taking an EV‑only approach.
Final Thoughts
Mitsubishi’s upcoming crossover launch is more than just a single vehicle — it marks the brand’s re‑entry into the American EV conversation. After years of obscurity and survival via alliance support, Mitsubishi is using its ties with Nissan and Tesla’s charging standard to punch above its weight.
If the new EV delivers competitive range, sharp pricing, and perhaps an AWD option, it could emerge as a surprise value leader in the EV market by 2026. Combined with Mitsubishi’s Momentum 2030 plan, U.S. buyers can expect more activity — and more choice — from a brand ready to re‑imagine its place in the automotive world.