MITSUBISHI MOTORS LINEUP AT THE 2013 TOKYO MOTOR SHOW

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will unveil three world premiere concept cars at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013 on November 20. Incorporating a new design that symbolizes the functionality and reassuring safety inherent to SUVs, the three concepts take as their theme MMC's @earth TECHNOLOGY*1 and point to the direction MMC's development and manufacturing will take in the near future.

The MITSUBISHI Concept GC-PHEV is a next-generation full-size SUV with full-time 4WD. It is based on a front engine, rear-wheel drive layout plug-in hybrid EV (PHEV) system comprising a 3.0-liter V6 supercharged MIVEC engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with a high-output motor and a high-capacity battery to deliver all-terrain performance truly worthy of an all-round SUV.

The MITSUBISHI Concept XR-PHEV is a next-generation compact SUV developed to take driving pleasure to new levels. The MITSUBISHI Concept XR-PHEV uses a front engine, front-wheel drive layout PHEV system that is configured with a downsized 1.1-liter direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC engine and a lightweight, compact and high-efficiency motor with a high-capacity battery.

These two concepts feature PHEV systems optimally tailored to different market and segment requirements.

The MITSUBISHI Concept AR is a next-generation compact MPV which combines SUV maneuverability with MPV roominess. It uses a lightweight mild hybrid system which includes a downsized 1.1-liter direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC engine.

All three concepts feature MMC's latest "e-Assist"*2 active safety technologies and the advanced "connected car" technology that utilizes next-generation information systems. These functions include a danger detection system which activates the corresponding safety functions and a failure/malfunction early-detection system which urges the driver to seek repairs or other maintenance when necessary.

Including the three concept models, MMC will be displaying a total of 17 models (13 on press days) at its booth at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013. Joining the concepts will be the new eK Space "super height wagon" minicar due for launch in Japan at the beginning of next year, motorsport vehicles and some current production models.

For more information on the three Mitsubishi Motors concept cars that will premiere at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, please log on to Tokyo-motorshow.com/en/.

*1: @earth TECHNOLOGY embraces a collection of advanced next-generation technologies embodying the principles of environmental responsibility, driving pleasure and toughness and safety.

*2: A collection of active safety technologies including ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), FCM (Forward Collision Management), LDW (Lane Departure Warning). "e-Assist" name used in Japan only.

About Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells sedans and crossovers/SUVs through a network of approximately 400 dealers. MMNA is leading the way in the development of highly-efficient, affordably-priced new gasoline-powered automobiles while using its industry-leading knowledge in battery electric vehicles to develop future EV and PHEV models. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

CONCEPT XR-PHEV

Nimble, smart and highly protective, the Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV boasts an athletic body with dynamic front-to-side character lines. Its newly developed FF-type Plug-in Hybrid EV System and more advanced active safety technology, made possible by Connected Car technology, deliver excellent agility, safety and eco performance. It's a unique and spirited urban driving encounter.
Experience the reliability and satisfaction of driving the Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV.

CONNECTED
The incorporated Connected Car technology brings greater peace of mind. By accurately updating driving information, it supports eco driving and provides predictive maintenance and repair advice, letting drivers focus on driving so they can fully enjoy the driving experience.

FF PHEV SYSTEM
Based on our renowned EV technology, this FF-type Plug-in Hybrid EV System is configured with a 1.1-liter inline 3-cylinder direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC engine. Mounting the engine and motor in front reduces power loss to realize higher performance and eco-friendliness. The vehicle also automatically selects the optimum driving mode (EV Drive Mode, Series Hybrid Mode or Parallel Hybrid Mode) depending on conditions.

SPECIFICATION : CONCEPT XR-PHEV
■Overall length / Overall width / Overall height (mm): 4370 / 1870 / 1570 ■Seating capacity: 4 ■Targeted hybrid fuel consumption: 28 km/L or more ■Targeted EV cruising distance: 85 km or more ■Engine type: 1.1-liter inline 3-cylinder direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC engine / Max. output: 100 kW / Fuel type: Gasoline ■Motor: Max. output: 120 kW ■Total battery electric power: 14 kWh ■Wheel drive: 2WD (FF) ■Transmission: Transaxle

Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV

The Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV blazes new trails with powerful driving performance thanks to its full-time 4WD Plug-in Hybrid EV System; excellent stability and road handling that S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) provides; and information power that an innovative human interface and Connected Car technology together bring. Offering the latest environmental performance, this vehicle empowers you to drive freely on the Earth while enjoying safety and peace of mind. Experience the reliability and satisfaction of driving the Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV.

EXTERIOR
A dynamic front face with SUV personality. A futuristic form that looks sculpted from a single block and wraps the vehicle with the strength to drive on any road.

INTERIOR
When you open the easy-access doors with no center pillar, the spacious cabin and futuristic interface catch your eye. Enter a progressive informational space that stimulates your adventurous heart. The door to a new driving experience is now opening.

CONNECTED "TACTICAL TABLE"
A large interface with a touch screen, sweeping wide through the center, collects information that passengers bring, information from the internet, and data accumulated by the vehicle itself, allowing the creation of original maps and driving plans that occupants can share as they connect with the world. The Connected Car possibilities expand from here.

AR WINDSHIELD
Vital driving information is displayed on the windshield to enhance navigation and warn of car distances and lane departures. A driving assist system that uses communication technology also enhances driving safety by notifying the driver with guidance and a warning when vehicles or pedestrians enter blind spots in intersections.
AR：Augmented Reality

NEW PHEV SYSTEM
The FR-type Plug-in Hybrid EV system effectively employs engine and motor power. The 3.0-liter V6 supercharged MIVEC engine is assisted by a 70kW high output motor that provides dynamic performance. This system realizes low energy consumption while achieving CO2 emissions under 100 g/km and supremely quiet operation.
SPECIFICATION : CONCEPT GC-PHEV

■Overall length / Overall width / Overall height (mm): 4930 / 1940 / 1980 ■Seating capacity: 4 ■Targeted hybrid fuel consumption: 15 km/L or more ■Targeted EV cruising distance: 40 km or more ■Engine type: 3.0-liter V6 supercharged MIVEC engine / Max. output: 250 kW / Fuel type: Gasoline ■Motor: Max. output: 70 kW ■Total battery electric power: 12 kWh ■Wheel drive: Full-time 4WD ■Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Mitsubishi Concept AR

The comfort of a minivan and active personality of an SUV are merged at the highest levels in the Mitsubishi Concept AR. Its lightweight mild hybrid system merges a compact 1.1-liter inline 3-cylinder direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC engine and belt starter generator to provide outstanding driving comfort from the get-go. The compact body houses curved spaciousness. You can share it with your friends or enjoy it in quiet solitude. An all-new pleasurable relationship between humans and vehicles is made possible by the freedom of flexible space and innovative Connected Car technology.

Experience the reliability and satisfaction of driving the Mitsubishi Concept AR.

FREEDOM SPACE
The unpartitioned flexible interior provides a feeling of freedom and ample space for 6 occupants, or 4 occupants with luggage. You can even rotate all four seats to enjoy face-to-face fun. A wide open space gently surrounds occupants and provides refreshing comfort.

CONNECTED
Whether traveling alone or with others, Connected Car technology enables freer use of space. All 4 occupants can enjoy sitting face-to-face around the interface on the center console or connecting with the outside world via interface available at each seat through the slit. Connected Car technology creates a new method of communication.

SPECIFICATION : CONCEPT AR

■Overall length / Overall width / Overall height (mm): 4350 / 1780 / 1690 ■Seating capacity: 6 ■Targeted fuel consumption: 24 km/L or more ■Engine type: 1.1-liter inline 3-cylinder direct-injection turbo-charged MIVEC engine / Max. output: 100 kW ■Fuel type: Gasoline ■Mild hybrid: Belt starter generator / Max. output: 10 kW (48V) ■Total battery electric power: 48V, 0.25 kWh ■Wheel drive: 2WD (FF) ■Transmission: CVT with sub transmission

Mitsubishi is getting more and more forthcoming about its plans for the US market. Among the tidbits revealed during a chat with Edmunds at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, MMNA Executive Vice President Don Swearingen said that "We are committed to huge investments in capital as well as huge investments in R&D." The marquee product of that investment could be a new Montero for the 2017 or 2018 model year, suggestions of which were raised with the Concept GC-PHEV at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show and again at the end of last year. Swearingen said the proposed SUV is a little smaller than a Ford Explorer and that dealers have seen a picture of it. A decision on whether to bring it to the US will be made later this year.

Below that, incremental improvements will come to every model over the next couple of years. The Outlander will get a facelift next year before a major restyle in 2016, when the Outlander PHEV is also expected to finally make it here. In 2015 the Outlander Sport will be fitted with larger engine and a new, quieter CVT returning better acceleration and fuel economy. In 2016 it will also be redesigned, and it will be equipped with the company's new telematics system that goes into the Outlander the following year.

At the other end of the line-up, the Mirage will get a big dose of love in two years. Detail changes like better fabric inside and outside-mirror indicators are slated for 2015, and in 2016 the bargain hatchback gets "a sleek, aerodynamic" reskin. The Mirage G4 sedan could join the US range if the Canadians turn out to be fans of it. The Lancer gets only meager attentions, while the i-MiEV gets the cold shoulder and won't change at all. We get the cold shoulder as far as a next-generation Evo - Swearingen didn't say a word about that, apparently.