Mitsubishi is entering Australia’s electric-vehicle market with the ASX VR-e, a rebranded version of the Foxtron Bria developed with Taiwanese manufacturer Foxconn. The four-variant lineup will use a 57.7-kWh lithium-ion battery, while the range-topping GSR adds a second motor and produces more power than Mitsubishi’s most powerful production Evo.

Up to 459 horsepower

The LS, Aspire, and Exceed variants each use a single rear-mounted electric motor rated at 229 horsepower (171 kW) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. Mitsubishi lists a 0-to-62-mph (100-km/h) time of 6.8 seconds for these versions.

The GSR retains the rear motor and adds a front-mounted unit, raising total output to 459 hp (342 kW) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm). That exceeds the 440 hp produced by the UK-only Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X FQ-440 MR, although the ASX VR-e is a very different type of vehicle. The GSR is claimed to reach 62 mph in 3.9 seconds.

All four versions will offer Eco, Comfort, and Sport drive modes. In the GSR, Sport mode will automatically vary the front-to-rear power split between 50/50 and 30/70.

Range and charging details

Mitsubishi has not yet released official range figures. The source indicates that the relatively small battery may limit the ASX VR-e to a figure not much higher than 248 miles (400 km).

Charging capability is more clearly defined. DC fast charging is capped at 134 kW, while AC charging is limited to 6.6 kW.

Foxtron-based design and interior

The ASX VR-e’s exterior design is carried over from the Foxtron Bria, which was styled by Pininfarina. As a result, it has a design distinct from previous Mitsubishi models and a European-influenced appearance.

Inside, the EV features a 15.6-inch central infotainment screen, a 9.2-inch digital instrument display, a sporty steering wheel, configurable ambient lighting, a Surround View Monitor, and autonomous parking. Seat upholstery will be leather or cloth depending on the version, while the cabin will be offered in gray or black with blue stitching.

The Exceed and GSR will additionally include a panoramic glass roof, an electric tailgate, and a 12-speaker audio system as standard.

Warranty coverage and Australian launch

The ASX VR-e will be sold initially in Australia with a five-year, 100,000-km (62,000-mile) vehicle warranty. That coverage can be extended to 10 years or 200,000 km (124,000 miles) when all scheduled servicing is completed at a Mitsubishi dealership. The battery is covered for eight years or 160,000 km (99,400 miles), regardless of servicing.

Pricing has not yet been announced. The electric crossover is expected to begin arriving at Australian dealerships later this year.