Mitsubishi Elevance PHEV SUV Revealed At Japan Mobility Show — The Modern Successor To The Legendary Pajero?

Mitsubishi has unveiled the Elevance Concept, a new three-row plug-in hybrid SUV, at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. The model marks the brand’s renewed focus on large, electrified off-roaders and could hint at a spiritual successor to the iconic Pajero. As outlined in Mitsubishi’s official announcement, the Elevance combines rugged design elements with a modern hybrid powertrain aimed at balancing off-road ability and low-emission performance. While presented as a concept, its production intent appears strong, signalling Mitsubishi’s next step toward a global SUV revival built around hybrid and 4WD technologies. Also Read: Hyundai Venue SUV Fully Revealed Before Launch - Check Out The Changes In Up Close Visuals Mitsubishi Elevance: Design And Exterior HighlightsThe Elevance follows Mitsubishi’s “Robust and Ingenious” design philosophy, with proportions and stance reminiscent of traditional ladder-frame SUVs. Its upright grille, squared fenders and distinctive LED lighting setup reinforce a functional yet contemporary aesthetic. The body features high ground clearance, short overhangs and integrated skid plates, basically the visual clues that the SUV is engineered for rough terrain. The rear styling, with vertical taillamps and a wide tailgate, continues the utilitarian design theme, echoing the practicality that made the Pajero popular among adventure-focused buyers. Mitsubishi Elevance: Interior And TechnologyInside, the Elevance Concept showcases a minimalist yet functional cockpit, designed to enhance visibility and driver engagement. Mitsubishi says the cabin layout supports both daily commuting and long-distance adventure travel, featuring configurable seating across three rows. Digital instrumentation and a wide infotainment display dominate the dashboard, while sustainable materials are expected to play a key role in the interior finish. The focus on adaptability suggests the Elevance could appeal to a broad user base if it reaches production form. Mitsubishi Elevance: Powertrain And Off-Road CapabilityMitsubishi confirmed that the Elevance uses a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain derived from its Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. While specific technical details weren’t disclosed, the setup is expected to integrate dual electric motors and a gasoline engine, similar to the Outlander PHEV’s architecture but tuned for higher torque and range. The system prioritises off-road control, terrain response, and efficient all-wheel-drive operation. According to Mitsubishi, the concept showcases how the company’s electrification strategy can coexist with the durability and dependability expected from a traditional 4WD SUV. Also Read: Hero Xtreme 160R Accessories List — Official Add-Ons, Prices And Details What This Could Mean For Mitsubishi’s FutureThe Elevance Concept represents Mitsubishi’s intent to reassert its identity as a maker of rugged, adventure-ready SUVs in an electrified era. Although the company hasn’t confirmed production plans, the model’s format and engineering direction position it as a potential modern-day replacement for the Pajero.