The Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept appearence at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022

Tough ONES Finally Mitsubishi Motors Corp. has officially released the Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept, on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. The concept car comes in a very unique form because it's almost similar to the Mitsubishi Xpander design.

The Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept is intended to embody Mitsubishi Motors' vision for a new Ralliart for the Monozukuri (product build quality) challenge. (Picture from: Car-Moby.jp)

Interestingly, the Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept actually appears in contrast to other previous legendary Mitsubishi Ralliart cars that are present in the form of a sedan. In this time the Mitsubishi Ralliart concept offered by the Japanese car company is present in the form of an SUV.

"The Vision Ralliart Concept embodies Mitsubishi Motors' vision for the new Ralliart and incorporates the company's powerful design capabilities," Mitsubishi said in a statement.

Mitsubishi Motors "Vision Ralliart Concept" is seen displayed during the "Tokyo Auto Salon 2022" at Makuhari messe in Chiba-Prefecture, Japan on Saturday, January 15, 2022. (Picture from: UPI)

The Tokyo-based automotive company claims the Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept does not only rely on a sporty and premium appearance but also provides high-level comfortable. So the car can be used in various road and weather conditions.

The shape of the front and rear bumpers of the Mitsubishi Motors "Vision Ralliart Concept" are are thick with the appearance of a rally vehicle, this is further strengthened by the wider over fender design. (Picture from: Archyde)

The Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept car is intended to embody Mitsubishi Motors' vision for a new Ralliart for the Monozukuri (product build quality) challenge. How not with an exterior appearance of the Outlander, this concept car presents a firm and sturdy appearance.

The rear bumper shape of the Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept with a sporty diffuser minus exhaust pipes and decorated with the Ralliart logo. (Picture from: Carmudi)

Coupled with the shape of the front and rear bumpers that are thick with the appearance of a rally vehicle, this is further strengthened by the wider over fender design, thus further strengthening the feel of the Ralliart itself with a front grille with radiator cover and a large rear diffuser reminiscent of the characteristics of a racing car.

To support the thick appearance of the Vision Ralliart Concept as a racing car. Its character is reinforced by the 22-inches sized black wheels and wide tires. To support better performance, large brake discs and opposite piston 6-pot brake calipers are installed on the Vision Ralliart Concept which makes the SUV more confident to go fast and through any corners.

Unfortunately, Mitsubishi did not divulge the technical specifications of the car's mechanical heart. No information was given whether the race car will use a conventional engine, an engine with turbo induction, a hybrid or even an electric motor. No clue at all.

Mitsubishi only provides detailed information about the external appearance which is very intimidating. According to them, Mitsubishi Vision Ralliart Concept is equipped with 22-inch large diameter wheels and tires. In addition there are large brake discs and 6-pot piston brake calipers. From that perspective, it seems that the concept car does have a lot of power.

Mitsubishi then presented the car in full form at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon, where the concept car was accompanied by two other cars that adopted Ralliart's signature design, the Mitsubishi Outlander Ralliart and the Mitsubishi Eclipse Ralliart.

As stated by the company's previous official release, that at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022, the Tokyo-based automotive company brought seven cars. In addition to the three cars above, the other cars on display were the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 ToughxTough, Mitsubishi Outlander Wild Adventure Style, Mitsubishi K-EV Concept X Style and Mitsubishi Minicab-MiEV B-Leisure Style. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MITSUBISHI | UPI ]

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The Forgotten Mitsubishi Concept-RA

Diesel HeadSmoke 55 Mitsubishi is a brand that’s introduced many unique sports cars over the past three decades. Unfortunately, though none of these sports cars were amazing, that is until the Mitsubishi Concept-RA hit in 2008. 

The Mitsubishi Concept-RA was officially introduced by Mitsubishi Motors at the North American International Auto Show 2008 as a gorgeous diesel-powered sports car concept. (Picture from: Autoblog)

The concept car was heavily based on the existing Eclipse model. But some differences made the concept car a bit more appealing. As we all know that the Mitsubishi Eclipse is the pioneer of this Japanese brand's sports vehicle in the US was first introduced in 1989, later became a symbol of sports vehicles for young people there at that time. 

The Mitsubishi Concept-RA is designed with a more aggressive exterior appearance than the Mitsubishi's previous generation sports vehicle. (Picture from: Motor-Junkie)

Well, the Mitsubishi Concept-RA was officially introduced by Mitsubishi Motors at the North American International Auto Show 2008 as a gorgeous diesel-powered sports car concept. The concept car is designed with a more aggressive exterior appearance than the Mitsubishi's previous generation sports vehicle. 

The Mitsubishi Concept-RA is powered by a 2.2 liter 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine, similar to such one used by the first Eclipse model. (Picture from: Motor-Junkie)

The Mitsubishi Concept-RA is powered by a 2.2 liter 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine, similar to such one used by the first Eclipse model. The mentioned turbo engine can produce bursts of power of 204 hp which is channeled to all the wheels through a dual clutch transmission system that can be operated manually or automatic.

The Mitsubishi Concept-RA's body made of recyclable plastic resin panels and also had equipped with aluminum engine guards, fenders to reduce vehicle weight and increase safety in the event of a collision as well. (Picture from: Pinterest)

As reported by TheAutoChannel, the Mitsubishi Concept-RA had many features adopted from the Lancer Evolution and Evo X models, including anti-lock brakes system, stability control, etc. However, the difference is that the sports car concept had been equipped with the active steering and active suspension control to provide more control when the vehicle has excessive torques so make its driving traction stability would be better and braking easier.

The Mitsubishi Concept-RA had many features adopted from the Lancer Evolution and Evo X models, including anti-lock brakes system, stability control, etc. (Picture from: Flickr)

Besides it is powered by turbo-diesel engine, this concept car also had recyclable plastic resin body panels and equipped with aluminum engine guards, fenders to reduce vehicle weight and increase safety in the event of a collision as well. Another advantage of the light weight, that it makes the engine' work less heavy when the car is moving fast on the roads.

The using of recyclable plastic resin body panels such on the Concept-RA initially meant to be a sustainable sports car in a segment where that isn’t commonplace. Unfortunately, the recession crushed plans for this potentially interesting sports car and let it remain a concept car to this day without ever being realized into a production version.😢 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | UNIVERSITYMITSUBISHI | THEAUTOCHANNEL | AUTOBLOG | MOTOR-JUNKIE ]

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Mitsubishi's Eco-Friendly D:X Concept: What to Expect

Futuristic ONES - From the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, it's Mitsubishi Motors Corporation's turn to shine as they introduce the Mitsubishi D:X Concept at this automotive event. This concept car is set to be the future successor to the Delica model and is destined for mass production.

The Mitsubishi D:X Concept is taking center stage at Mitsubishi's booth during the 2023 Japan Mobility Show. (Picture from: Kumparan)

Hiroshi Nagaoka, the Executive Vice President of Mitsubishi Motor Corporation, highlighted the unique nature of the D:X Concept compared to other Mitsubishi concept cars. He explained, "This D:X Concept is a bit different compared to other Mitsubishi concept cars, such as the previous XForce. So this is different, it won't exactly look like this, but usually when Mitsubishi has a concept model, it won't be produced for long."

The Mitsubishi D:X Concept plays a crucial role in the development of the new Delica line, focusing on plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology as its primary power source. (Picture from: Otomotif-Kompas)

While an exact production timeline for the MPV Crossover prototype remains undisclosed, the company's goal is clear – it shouldn't be later than 2023. Nagaoka emphasized, "We still don't know the timing, but maybe before 2030 we can see it. Because this is a global model, to challenge the global market, we will try to bring it."

The Delica's character can be seen from the Mitsubishi D:X Concept's side window graphics that extend from the front of the cabin to the sturdy D pillar. (Picture from: PhilKotse)

The D:X Concept plays a crucial role in the development of the new Delica line, focusing on plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology as its primary power source. What sets the D:X Concept apart is its ability to combine the characteristics of both MPV and SUV concepts. It promises to handle various terrains and obstacles with ease, all while providing a comfortable and spacious interior like that of an MPV.

What sets the Mitsubishi D:X Concept apart is its ability to combine the characteristics of both MPV and SUV concepts. (Picture from: Viva)

A futuristic, aggressive design with a boxy body is the first impression when you see the D:X Concept. The Delica's character can be seen from the side window graphics that extend from the front of the cabin to the sturdy D pillar.

The Mitsubishi D:X Concept's interior is very spacious and safe, with panoramic seats that move up and down, providing an unprecedented driving experience. (Picture from: PhilKotse)

The impression of space is created by the windshield which extends downwards. Over fender fenders with large diameter tires provide a strong impression, with additional slip plates and protectors on the foot steps.

The front still carries the Dynamic Shield model. The laser projector lamp has a distinctive T shape, extending to the side to give a wide impression. This D:X Concept uses a copper color with a semi-gloss texture.

The Mitsubishi D:X Concept promises to handle various terrains and obstacles with ease, all while providing a comfortable and spacious interior like that of an MPV. (Picture from: Viva)

Nagaoka provided further insights into its design, saying, "The size is larger than the current Delica model, as the ground clearance is very high. So you could say this car can be taken anywhere because it can also rotate 360 degrees."

The Mitsubishi D:X Concept aligns with Mitsubishi's latest hybrid technology advancements, ensuring enhanced performance, power, and a focus on environmental sustainability. (Picture from: Viva)

Moreover, the D:X Concept aligns with Mitsubishi's latest hybrid technology advancements, ensuring enhanced performance, power, and a focus on environmental sustainability. This aligns with the company's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality.

In summary, the Mitsubishi D:X Concept isn't just another fleeting idea. It represents the future successor to the Delica model and is on track for mass production. This concept car distinguishes itself from typical Mitsubishi concepts, underlining the company's dedication to bringing it to life. 

While an exact production date for the MPV Crossover prototype remains unspecified, the goal is to make it a reality before 2030, especially in global markets. The D:X Concept combines the best of both MPV and SUV worlds, making it versatile for any adventure while maintaining passenger comfort. Additionally, it incorporates Mitsubishi's latest hybrid technology to contribute to a more sustainable automotive future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MITSUBISHI | PHILKOTSE | CARSCOOPS | TOPGEAR | HUPEBEAST ]

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Latest concept cars from Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi has been giving a teaser image of their concept cars whose will be showcased at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show that start on November 20. There are three concept car models of that are ready introduced by Mitsubishi at the event.

Three Mitsubishi concept car teasers which are ready for the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. (Picture from: http://www.digitaltrends.com/)

As reported by the Bangkok Post, from the three concepts are presented, it is believed there is one model will become the next Pajero model. Although there is no direct information from Mitsubishi, at least this prediction comes after seeing the line-up of concept cars that will be present.

The Mitsubishi GC-PHEV concept is a full-size SUV that looks like a reincarnated version of the cult-classic Montero (also known as the Pajero). (Picture from: http://www.digitaltrends.com/)

The first concept car that introduced is GC-PHEV or also called 'Grand Cruise'. This model will represent Mitsubishi's vision of a full-size SUV in the future. GC-PHEV will use a plug-in hybrid system as well as some of the latest safety systems. There is a chance this car will be made to seven passengers. Design presented completely different, even looks similar to the design language of the Lexus. Touted as the Mitsubishi Pajero in the future because a cursory look of its sturdy and strong design, that implies as a continuation of the Pajero.

Mitsubishi GC-PHEV concept car. (Picture from: http://www.autonews.com/)

Mitsubishi Grand Cruise concept will be armed with the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) technology that offers performance combined with of durability eco-friendly SUV. Also embedded S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) that will help to conquer the various obstacles both on-road and off-road. The system also give stability guarantees while driving.

Mitsubishi XR-PHEV concept car. (Picture from: http://www.autonews.com/)

Next is the XR-PHEV Concept, a plug-in crossover which called by Mitsubishi as the Xover Runner (XR) styled like a coupe. Plug-in hybrid system that is lightweight giving the vehicle superior fuel efficiency and agility to maneuver. It could foreshadow the next Outlander Sport, which is already a bit too small to be truly practical, anyway. Re-imagining it as a fashion item such as Nissan Juke

Mitsubishi AR concept car. (Picture from: http://www.vivaoto.com/)

And the third is the MPV concept model that called AR (Active Runabout). This model will also be officially showcased at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. Technically, this concept car is included into the compact MPV, but Mitsubishi promises this car could offer the mobility of a SUV with a roomy interior space like a MPV.

Mitsubishi trio concept car models which are ready for the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. (Picture from: http://m.autobild.co.id/)

Mitsubishi did not specify whether the so-called 'mobility as SUVs' that already includes four-wheel drive system or not. They just stated that the concept of using a direct-injection turbo engine that has been minimized. In its interior has a flexible seating that is designed to be able to be changed into seven different configurations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS | MITSUBISHI | BANGKOK POST | DIGITAL TRENDS]
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Look back Mitsubishi HSR Concept series

Rare Concepts Most of the cars that we talk about in this series of articles devoted to forgotten concepts are in fact not so unfamiliar, on the contrary, many people remember them well, especially when they have given life in some way or form. another to production models. 

1995 Mitsubishi HSR-V Concept. (Picture from: Byri.net)

For the Mitsubishi HSR, on the other hand, things are different, because although we are dealing in this subject not with one but six prototypes, presented at regular intervals of two years one after the other on the occasion of the Tokyo Auto Shows between 1987 and 1997, none of them left their mark. Too bad, because while it is true that they did not directly become production models, many of the innovations baptized by this family have since appeared on production cars.

As quoted of Wikipedia, the meaning of HSR acronym varied over the years. The first iteration meant Hi-Speed Running Research, the second Highly Sophisticated-transport Research, and the third Human Science Research. All of the HSR acronym means could not only imply aesthetic refinement, indeed, each of the concepts (all designed by the same hand, that of Akinori Nakanishi) had equally innovative technologies, from the electronic control of the chassis to the steering on the four wheels, from active aerodynamics to stability control and small supercharged engines, all of which are very rare or have not yet happened on production cars at the time.

1987 Mitsubishi HSR Concept. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

The first concept car of this series was made by Mitsubishi in 1987 and was called the Mitsubishi HSR Concept (HSR means as 'Hi-speed Running Research'). It was made as a show car featured with the Mitsubishi's integrated electronic systems offering automatic control of drive train, suspension, steering, brakes, and driving position according to driving conditions or weather. The car was powered by a 2.0-litre 16-valve turbocharged engine capable spew out power of 291 horsepower, and claimed to be run up to a maximum speed of 300 kph.

1989 Mitsubishi HSR-II Concept. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

The second generation called the Mitsubishi HSR-II Concept (HSR means as 'Highly Sophisticated-transport Research') made by the Japanese automaker in 1989. It had a heavy emphasis on active aerodynamics (such the independent suspension and electronically-adjustable dampers all around), coupled with a series of movable fins and spoilers offering a drag factor which varied from 0.20 to 0.40 depending on setup.

1989 Mitsubishi HSR-II Concept. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

Besides the HSR-II is packing a twin-turbo V6 along with 4-wheel steering and 4-wheel drive as well. For your info, the HSR-II Concept could be found and driven virtually in the racing games titled of the Gran Turismo 4, Gran Turismo 5 and Gran Turismo 6 under the Sony's PlayStation consoles.

1991 Mitsubishi HSR-III Concept. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

The third concept car to bear the HSR name is built back in 1991 and known as the Mitsubishi HSR-III Concept under design themes of "Human Scale Technology" and "Small is beautiful," and continued the active aerodynamics theme of the HSR-II, but with the addition of flexible skin on the rear spoiler dubbed an "elastic aerotail.

1993 Mitsubishi HSR-IV Concept. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

It was powered by an 1.6-litre V6 6A10 engine (known as the world's smallest mass-produced V6 engine) capable burst power of 177 hp. Indeed, the HSR-III shifting from the overtly sporting and powerful earlier HSRs, however focused on cleanliness and recyclability so all of the car body parts marked for ease of recycling.

1993 Mitsubishi HSR-IV Concept. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

As for the fourth of the HSR (HSR means as 'Human Science Research') series is made by Mitsubishi back in 1993. It is named Mitsubishi HSR-IV Concept powered y a modulated displacement version of the 1.6-litre V6 engine capable burst power of 177 horsepower. Besides the four-wheel-drive sports concept car also featuring an all-wheel anti-lock braking system.

1995 Mitsubishi HSR-V Concept. (Picture from: Pinterest)

However, the fifth version (as seen as the first picture above), the one presented by Mitsubishi at the 1995 edition of the international event, had something more: it came with a slightly different appearance, adjustable ground clearance and bodywork. Convertible with a semi-transparent retractable roof that made it go from coupe to roadster. In short, a coupe-convertible-crossover ahead of its time. While, the Mitsubishi HSR-V Concept, in particular, was equipped with first 1.8-liter gasoline engine with direct injection, the ancestor of the famous GDi family of Mitsubishi launched the following year on the Galant and then the Carisma.

1997 Mitsubishi HSR-VI Concept. (Picture from: WheelsAge.org)

Meanwhile in 1997, the Japanese automaker made an evolution in design on the Mitsubishi HSR-VI Concept, which powered by the 2.4-litre version of the GDI engine and also had four-wheel steering, active yaw, traction controls, even an early automated driving system ('Automated Driving' and 'Driver Operated' Modes, two operating modes suited to the traffic environment of the near future).

1997 Mitsubishi HSR-VI Concept. (Picture from: WheelsAge.org)

The HSR-VI Concept's cabin lowers to its lowest position to insure a low total overall height of 1,220 mm. This perfectly matches the overall width of 1,870 mm to create a bold, stable appearance. At the same time, the front end profile is compact to greatly reduce air resistance. When in this mode, the styling of HSR-VI is worthy of the ultra-high efficiency and next generation personal transportation. That's the final concept, since then the HSR series is no longer made by the Japanese manufacturer.😏

As for the design, in our opinion the Mitsubishi HSR-VI Concept was less attractive and had much like “Blade Runner” in boxy shape. And we preferred to the Mitsubishi HSR-V Concept. Finally, which one do you think has the best design from all the models from the HSR series above and give your opinion on the comment collum.  *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPNIK | AUTONETMAGZ | WIKIPEDIA | BYRI.NET | CAR-REV-DAILY ]

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The Evolution of Mitsubishi Eclipse: From Concept to Reality

Rare ONES - The automotive world witnessed a remarkable transformation when the Mitsubishi Eclipse entered its third generation in 1999. This evolution was closely inspired by the striking design of the Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring), a concept vehicle unveiled at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. Notably, this marked Mitsubishi's inaugural venture into showcasing a concept car at a US auto exhibition.

The Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring) introduced as "a glimpse into Mitsubishi Motors' vision for an upcoming sporty model, later the third-generation Eclipse emerged shortly thereafter. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

The original press release for the Mitsubishi SST introduced it as "a glimpse into Mitsubishi Motors' vision for an upcoming sporty model." True to this vision, the third-generation Eclipse emerged shortly thereafter. However, intriguingly, the concept boasted a few distinctive elements that didn't make it to the production model.

The Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring) was a concept vehicle unveiled at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

For instance, the unique yellowy-green paint was an adventurous departure from Mitsubishi's conventional offerings. A highlight on Mitsubishi's stage was the SST concept coupe, a product of the design prowess of a studio in Claressa, California. This coupe was conceived to serve as a preview of the potential aesthetics for sports cars in the coming century.

The Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring) was a concept vehicle unveiled at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The designers heralded the emergence of an "industrial" or, as they coined it, a geomechanical style that would leave an indelible mark. It's intriguing to note that the SST's influence might have been channeled into the Mitsubishi production lineup. This very Californian studio had already steered the development of the latest Eclipse coupe, the Lancer, Mirage Coupe sedan, and even played a role in refreshing the styling of the 3000 GT model.

The Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring) was a concept vehicle unveiled at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The deliberate foray into the sports concept realm by the North American arm of Mitsubishi held a strategic purpose. The brand was intent on fortifying its foothold within the sports car sector, aiming to captivate enthusiasts and carve its niche.

The Mitsubishi SST concept coupe under unique yellowy-green paint known as a product of the design prowess of a studio in Claressa, California. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

However, as the production Eclipse rolled out, some elements of the SST concept were left on the drawing board. The distinctive conjoined taillights, a hallmark of the concept, didn't make their way to the production variant. Moreover, the production Eclipse didn't mirror the SST's breadth and lower stance, an omission that perhaps missed an opportunity to fully capture the concept's allure. It's a poignant thought – the SST concept's design integrity could have potentially propelled greater success for the Eclipse had Mitsubishi adhered more faithfully to its original blueprint.

The Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring) employing composite materials and carbon fiber, the car's body achieved a delicate balance of lightweight agility and enduring robustness. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

Under the SST's hood lay a tangible promise. Unlike many ephemeral concepts, the SST was a bonafide automobile equipped to perform commendably on the road. The showcased model boasted a spirited 210-horsepower 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, with the option of a 3.5-liter V6, reminiscent of Mitsubishi's esteemed Diamante and Montero models. Additionally, the automatic transmission offered a manual mode, adding a dash of sportiness to the driving experience.

The Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring) showcased model boasted a spirited 210-horsepower 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

The structural composition of the SST was equally captivating. Employing composite materials and carbon fiber, the car's body achieved a delicate balance of lightweight agility and enduring robustness. Distinctive corrugated side surfaces, coupled with elegantly designed air intake apertures, contributed to its arresting visual appeal. Not to be overlooked were the wheel arches, accommodating striking 20-inch wheels that underscored the SST's distinctive persona.

The Mitsubishi SST (Sophisticated Sports Touring) featured with distinctive conjoined taillights, a hallmark of the concept, didn't make their way to the production variant. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

The design philosophy underlying the SST's creation emanated from the Mitsubishi studio in California. Termed "metal in motion" by its creators, this thematic thread was destined to weave through the brand's forthcoming developments. This same studio also birthed the TECHNAS SUV concept, a showcase from the preceding year. Notably, the Detroit auto show also witnessed the unveiling of the HSR-VI concept, a familiar sight from its Frankfurt debut.

In retrospect, the evolution of the Mitsubishi Eclipse from the SST concept to its production form signifies a captivating journey. The spirit of innovation and the drive to captivate enthusiasts while pushing design boundaries remain at the core of Mitsubishi's automotive legacy. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, one can't help but wonder what future metamorphoses await the iconic Eclipse nameplate. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MITSUBISHI | ALLCARINDEX | CONCEPTCARZ | CARSTYLINGRU | ]

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