Mitsubishi plots return to the UK next year

Mitsubishi, the Japanese car maker responsible for models such as the Shogun SUV and Lancer Evolution performance car, is to make a surprise return to the UK.

In 2020, the firm announced it was pulling out of the European market, and its final models left its UK showrooms the following year.

Following today's announcement, its cars will be imported by Midlands-based International Motors, which is responsible for the sales and servicing of GWM, Isuzu and Subaru models in the UK.

Mitsubishi will draw models from its global line-up, and will focus on four-wheel drive models, but there’s no word yet on which models these will be, nor specifications or pricing. However, it’s likely that the range will be based around the Eclipse Cross and Outlander – both family SUVs with plug-in hybrid power.

The L200 pickup is also likely to return as it was traditionally among the firm’s most popular models in the UK.

With an emphasis on four-wheel drive, it seems unlikely the slow-selling ASX or Mirage will make a return.

Despite ending its sales operations in 2021, Mitsubishi still supports a network of more than 100 service and repair centres, and is in the process of appointing a number of new dealerships. It’s possible some of these may already sell GWM, Isuzu or Subaru models.

Mitsubishi’s European boss, Frank Krol, said: “Our upcoming models represent the very best of Mitsubishi Motors’ core technologies in performance, four-wheel drive, and much more. We look forward to a successful introduction in the UK – a market where our brand continues to have a deep emotional connection with loyal customers.

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