Mitsubishi is a major global company, but its presence as an automaker is not as significant in North America. For 2024, we have updates on the brand’s new vehicle lineup, including a surprise for fans of the classic Lancer: the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Ralliart model is set to launch next year.
Hints of a Ralliart SUV were evident since the Tokyo Auto Salon in 2022, where a concept was unveiled. Now, the Japanese scoop site Best Car Web confirms the model’s upcoming release.
While specifics remain limited, there is a clear picture forming of what the Outlander Ralliart will entail. The plug-in hybrid SUV will sport a comprehensive body kit, revised suspension, and more dynamic wheels. Enhanced performance is anticipated, though the model might remain exclusive to the Japanese market.
The first Ralliart PHEV
The powertrain for the Outlander Ralliart will still revolve around a 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine. However, total output is expected to rise to approximately 215kW, translating to around 290 horsepower. For context, the 2023 Outlander PHEV offers 248 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque in the US.
The power boost may seem unlikely for a 2.4-liter engine, but the Outlander PHEV operates similarly to an electric vehicle. It uses two electric motors. One at the front and one at the rear—with the 2.4-liter engine primarily serving as a generator. Mitsubishi might adjust the collaboration between the motors to achieve short bursts of maximum power in the Ralliart model.
According to a rendering from Best Car, the Mitsubishi Outlander Ralliart PHEV will boast a bold body kit. Front chin spoiler, fender flares, side skirts, and a diffuser. The grille will also undergo changes, and Ralliart badges will be tastefully added throughout.
Ralliart, established in the 1980s, is Mitsubishi’s performance division that engaged in motorsport ventures such as the Dakar Rally and World Rally Championship. Consequently, road cars bearing the Ralliart badge were introduced.
Mitsubishi’s desire to compete with Subaru’s sales success with the WRX led to the creation of its own sporty mid-tier model. The 2009 Lancer Ralliart, priced around $27,000, featured 237 horsepower from a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and came with a standard automated manual transmission.
Other Ralliart models have faded from memory, including the European “Sportback” (a shorter wagon version of the Lancer) and the Colt Ralliart, a compact hot hatch.
The Outlander Ralliart’s primary competitor will be the Subaru Forester STI Sport in Japan, which features a body kit and chassis adjustments, although it lacks an engine worthy of the STI badge.
This Mitsubishi Outlander Ralliart PHEV is not a classic tuning car because it’s made by manufacturer. But it’s really especial and probably pretty rare SUV.