Mitsubishi engineers are still investigating a high-performance Outlander with plug-in hybrid technology.
Vision Ralliart concept showcased upgraded styling, battery, and powertrain in 2022.
Australian executives reject cosmetic-only Ralliart models and favour actual performance upgrades.
Mitsubishi is continuing internal investigations, which reportedly began more than four years ago, into a potential high-performance Ralliart version of one of its vehicles, according to company executives. The reason for the ongoing exploration into the feasibility of such a project boils down to adapting plug-in hybrid technology to increase performance without compromising emissions compliance.
Kentaro Honda, chief engineer for the Outlander program, confirmed the project remains under consideration. “We are still investigating,” Honda said in an interview. He noted that recent rally experience, such as participation in the Asia Cross-Country Rally, could inform future development decisions.
While not officially confirmed, the idea of a Ralliart Outlander has gained support within Mitsubishi Motors Australia. CEO Shaun Westcott said multiple studies are underway and emphasized that outcomes may differ by market. “There are a number of moving parts in this permutation,” he said.
2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart | Photo: MitsubishiWestcott also thankfully ruled out the introduction of cosmetic-only Ralliart appearance packages in Australia. “I declined the sticker packs. I was not happy with taking on sticker packs and calling it a Ralliart,” he stated. “If Australia takes something on like that, we are actually looking for some enhancements in the actual vehicle.”
The Vision Ralliart concept, revealed at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon, previewed a potential direction for a performance-focused Outlander. Based on the pre-facelift PHEV version, the concept proposed upgrades including higher motor output, a larger battery, and advanced four-wheel-drive tuning.
Since then, Mitsubishi has updated the Outlander PHEV with a 22.7 kWh battery and a combined output of 225 kW (302 hp), up from the previous 185 kW (248 hp – North American output). Japanese media reports have speculated that a production Ralliart version could deliver around 213 kW (286 hp).
Design elements shown on the Vision Ralliart included widened fenders, 22-inch wheels, larger brake discs with six-piston callipers, and a sport-oriented exterior design. The concept was presented as an exploration of Mitsubishi’s future performance direction.
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The Ralliart badge last appeared in the Australian market in 2015 on the Lancer (same for Canada in sedan and sportback bodies (2009-2015)), a model that included a turbocharged 237-hp engine and all-wheel drive but remained below the Lancer Evolution in performance terms.
Mitsubishi executives have often reiterated that Ralliart remains part of the company’s brand identity
Source: Drive
2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart | Photo: Mitsubishi