Mitsubishi unveils new SUV and MPV concepts

Mitsubishi has teased three new concept vehicles, which will be unveiled at the Tokyo motor show in November.

The first concept, dubbed GC-PHEV, is a plug-in hybrid SUV. The car will use Mitsubishi's electronic all-wheel drive system, named Super All-Wheel Control, to deliver what the company describes as "superior handling, stability as well as the all-terrain capability an SUV offers".

The concept also utlisies both the latest driver safety systems, and also offers wi-fi driver support - making it what Mitsubishi describes as a 'connected vehicle'. The model could form the basis of a replacement for the current Pajero (Montero for India).

The second concept, named XR-PHEV, is a compact plug-in hybrid SUV which is focused around nimble drivability and coupé styling. It is expected to compete in the same market as the Range Rover Evoque and could well form the basis of a replacement for the ASX crossover, although it is also conceivable that both the XR-PHEV and GC-PHEV SUVs will act as hybrid options to sit alongside current models, rather than acting as new product lines.

Finally, Mitsubishi will also reveal a new MPV in the form of the Concept AR. It marks a return for Mitsubishi to the MPV segment following the discontinuation of the Grandis in 2011.

The company says the concept "offers both the mobility of an SUV and the occupant space of an MPV". The concept features an enveloping interior design and is expected to include seating for seven passengers. The concept will be powered by a downsized, direct-injection turbocharged engine.

The company has already told Autocar that much of its future model line-ups rely on electrification and hybridisation. Last year, the company said it wanted to refresh its entire model range - beginning with the launch of the new Outlander earlier this year.

Plans for the new Evo have also been revealed, with the car taking on a new plug-in hybrid persona to rival the Nissan GT-R.