Mitsubishi has revealed a new electric hatchback for Australia, but it’s not entirely a Mitsubishi. The ASX VR-e is essentially a rebadged Foxtron Bria, designed by Pininfarina.
This low-slung EV will reach local dealerships in the fourth quarter. It marks Mitsubishi’s return to battery-electric vehicles in the country since the i-MiEV.
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A Familiar Design with Mitsubishi Badges
Previewed with only two images, the ASX VR-e looks almost identical to the Bria. The main differences are the Mitsubishi badges and script replacing the Foxtron branding.
The front-end features a full-width LED light bar, with main headlamp clusters below it.
A large black grille sits in the bumper, and a duct runs under the floating light bar along the hood for aerodynamics.
No rear images have been provided, but it should mirror the Bria.
Inside, the cabin is also similar, with a large floating infotainment display, shortcut buttons, a digital instrument cluster, and a four-spoke steering wheel.
Mitsubishi Australia will offer the ASX VR-e in LS, Aspire, Exceed, and GSR trims. Specifications for these variants are yet to be announced.
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All Bria versions use a 57.5 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery.
It comes as a rear-motor model with 229 hp or an all-wheel-drive dual-motor version with 400 hp.
The ASX VR-e will likely use the same powertrain.
“ASX VR-e marks a significant milestone in our refreshed Mitsubishi range as the first BEV since the i-MiEV – Australia’s first mass-produced electric vehicle,” said Shunichi Kihara, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Australia.
“The new Mitsubishi ASX VR-e continues this path of innovation with an immersive infotainment system, bold design and excellent electric driving performance.”
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Pricing and detailed specifications are expected in the coming months.
