Mitsubishi launches tech-heavy electric ASX VR-e for Australia

Summarised from 2 outlets · 4 reports · Updated 20 Oct, 01:31 · Archive

Mitsubishi will launch its first electric vehicle, the ASX VR-e, in Australia before the end of 2026. The vehicle is developed and built by Taiwanese manufacturer Foxtron, a joint venture between Foxconn and Yulon, with input from Mitsubishi.

The ASX VR-e adopts a touchscreen-heavy interior with limited physical controls for vehicle functions, marking a sharp departure from traditional Mitsubishi models, which typically offer simplified touchscreen layouts and physical buttons for settings, drive modes and climate control. Mitsubishi Australia's VR-e product strategy manager Tim Clarke acknowledged this shift will not appeal to the brand's traditional buyers, but noted the market is 'evolving and fragmenting'.

The range-opening LS variant offers a maximum driving range of 403km on the WLTP cycle, with three rear-wheel-drive versions providing 380km to 403km of range. The flagship dual-motor, all-wheel-drive GSR achieves 328km. All variants use a 57.7kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. However, competitors including the Kia EV3 offer greater range; the EV3 Air Standard Range delivers 436km from a 58.3kWh battery. Clarke argued the ASX VR-e's range is appropriate for its battery size, similar to competitors with equivalent capacity.

How it is being reported

• Mitsubishi defends new EV's "acceptable" range against longer-driving rivalsThe new ASX VR-e may not offer a class-leading driving range, but Mitsubishi doesn't expect that to be a dealbreaker for buyers.Perth Now · 20 Oct, 01:05
• Mitsubishi defends new EV's "acceptable" range against longer-driving rivalsThe new ASX VR-e may not offer a class-leading driving range, but Mitsubishi doesn't expect that to be a dealbreaker for buyers.The West Australian · 20 Oct, 01:05
• Mitsubishi admits tech-heavy ASX VR-e may not be for everyoneMitsubishi is taking a big step with its new electric ASX VR-e, and it accepts that its traditional buyers may not love it.The West Australian · 20 Oct, 01:05
• Mitsubishi admits tech-heavy ASX VR-e may not be for everyoneMitsubishi is taking a big step with its new electric ASX VR-e, and it accepts that its traditional buyers may not love it.Perth Now · 20 Oct, 01:05

In this story: Mitsubishi · Foxtron · Foxconn · Yulon · Australia · Kia · Tim Clarke

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