Tokyo, October 20, 2022 – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced that the total sales of the Outlander PHEV model, its flagship crossover SUV, won the first place in the PHEV sales ranking1 in Japan with 10,749 units2 sold in first half of fiscal 2022. In addition, the PHEV model of the Eclipse Cross crossover SUV sold 2,430 units as second place in the PHEV category. With total sales of 13,179 units for both PHEV models, Mitsubishi Motors took the lead in the PHEV category of Japanese market with approximately 65% of total shares.

1. April to September 2022; Survey by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JADA)

2. Total sales of the previous generation and current generation model which launched in December 2021.

The Outlander PHEV model is Mitsubishi Motors’ flagship model which brings together the best in electrification and all-wheel control technologies. Launched in Japan in December 2021, it has been highly acclaimed by customers for its bold exterior design based on the product concept of “I-Fu-Do-Do” or authentic and majestic in Japanese; its convenient seating arrangement for seven passengers in three rows; and the smooth and powerful acceleration of a twin-motor 4WD. Mitsubishi Motors launched the new model in Australia and New Zealand this year and will start the sales in North America in November 2022.

The Outlander PHEV is the world’s best-selling plug-in hybrid SUV, and the all-new Outlander PHEV combines everything that has made the gasoline-powered 2022 Outlander so successful: bold styling, advanced vehicle architecture, award-winning2 interior, seven-passenger convenience and legendary Mitsubishi SUV capability. To this, the PHEV model adds an all-new version of Mitsubishi Motors’ plug-in hybrid electric drivetrain, boasting more power and torque, greater all-electric range and the latest and most sophisticated version of Mitsubishi’s confidence-inspiring Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)3 all-wheel drive system.

The seven-passenger 2023 Outlander PHEV offers up to 38 miles of all-electric range, up to 420 miles of overall range4 and is the only plug-in hybrid on the market with available DC fast-charging capability (SEL and above models), which can fill the 20kWh battery pack to 80% capacity in just 38 minutes.The 2023 Outlander PHEV also features Mitsubishi’s new “Innovative Pedal” technology, which allows near-one-pedal acceleration and deceleration, similar to full battery electric vehicles. This system further differentiates the Outlander PHEV from other plug-in hybrids, and highlights the vehicle’s electric-first design philosophy.

Outlander PHEV Line-up and Trim Level

ES

Standard equipment: 7-Passenger Seating, 18-inch Alloy Wheels, 12.3-inch Full LCD Meter Cluster Display, Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM), Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Active Blind Spot Assist (ABSA), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Departure Warning and Prevention (LDW & LDP), Driver Attention Alert, Automatic High Beam (AHB), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), Rear Automatic Emergency Braking (Rear AEB), Rear Parking Sensor, Push Button Start, Apple CarPlay™ And Android Auto™, Front USB Ports, 8″ Smartphone-Link Display Audio (SDA) – SiriusXM® with 3-Month All Access Trial, Bluetooth® Wireless Technology, Mitsubishi Connect with Safeguard and Remote Services and 24-Month Trial (+EV Features including battery capacity)

SE

All ES equipment, plus: 20-Inch Two-Tone Alloy Wheels, Heated Front Seats, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) With Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), 9-inch Smartphone-Link Display, Audio w/ Navigation – SiriusXM® with 3-Month All Access Trial, HD Radio®, Auto Up/Down Windows for Passenger/Rear Seats, Led Front Fog Lights, Heated Door Mirrors, Front Rain-Sensing Wipers, Hands-Free Remote Power Liftgate, Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel, Leather-Wrapped Shift Knob, Synthetic Leather Seating Surfaces, Multi-View Camera System, Front Parking Sensor, Smartphone Wireless Charging, Rear USB Ports, Front Heated Seats, Electric Folding Mirrors

SE w/ Tech Package

All SE equipment, plus: Power-Panoramic Sunroof, Auto-Dimming Rear-view Mirror, Bose™ Premium Audio w/ Nine Speakers

SEL

All SE equipment, plus: Leather Appointed Seating Surfaces, Key-Linked Driver Position Memory, System Including Mirrors, Reverse Auto Tilt Mirrors, Roof Rails, 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Auto-Dimming Rear-view Mirror, Heated Rear Seats, DC Fast Charging, Rear Door Pull-Up, Sunshade, Rear Seat 1500W Outlet Trunk, 1500W Outlet Passenger, 8-Way Memory Seat

SEL Touring

All SEL equipment, plus: Power Panoramic Sunroof, Heated Steering Wheel, Head-Up Display, Bose Premium Audio w/ Nine Speakers, Pull-Up Rear Window Shades

SEL Premium

All SEL Touring equipment, plus: Semi-Aniline Premium Leather Seats, Black Roof, Massage Function Driver & Passenger Seat40th Anniversary Edition

All SEL Premium equipment, plus: Black Diamond Paint w/ Bronze Roof, Limited

40th Anniversary Badges

As a result of its research and development of electrified vehicles since 1964, Mitsubishi Motors launched the i-MiEV – the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle – in 2009. The company then introduced the Outlander PHEV – the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV – in 2013, and added the Eclipse Cross PHEV model to the line-up in 2020. The company has been taking the lead in the PHEV category with approximately 310,000 units of Outlander PHEV sold in more than 60 countries around the world. With these solutions, Mitsubishi Motors will continue to contribute to solving climate change and energy-related problems and achieve carbon neutrality.

“The multi-award winning Mitsubishi Outlander’s body style has surpassed the conventional sedan in popularity, mostly because of functionality. This makes the spacious, but stylish Outlander a perfect fit for our local SA launch early in 2023,” explains Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) today held the world premiere of the Mitsubishi XFC Concept, a compact SUV concept car, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The car will be on display at Vietnam Motor Show 2022 to be held from October 26 to 30.

With the concept of being the “best-suited buddy for an exciting life,” the Mitsubishi XFC Concept is a next-generation compact SUV that offers the powerful and imposing design of an SUV. The XFC promotes ease of handling and ample cargo space, comfort, including class-leading interior space and safety, secure road and rough surface handling even on wet slippery surfaces.

“The launch of the new compact SUV will be sequentially in the ASEAN markets including Vietnam in 2023*,” said Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). “An electrified variant to the lineup is also planned and to also roll it out in regions outside ASEAN. We hope to grow the model from a vehicle for the ASEAN market to a global strategic vehicle which will include South Africa, making it a core model like our sales-leading Xpander crossover MPV.”

The Mitsubishi XFC Concept complements Mitsubishi Motors’ wide range of products tailored to the ASEAN market — the Triton pickup truck and its derivative, the Pajero Sport midsize SUV; the Outlander and Outlander PHEV midsize SUVs; the Xpander and Xpander Cross crossover MPVs.

Powerful and imposing design  

In line with Mitsubishi Motors’ design philosophy of Robust & Ingeniousness, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept combines a compact yet powerful and imposing aura of an SUV with a sleek surface that forms one continuous flow, starting from the three-diamond emblem on the front and extending to the sides and rear. This gives it a stylish and sporty profile to match the cityscapes. In addition, with enhanced road handling on rough surfaces thanks to ample ground clearance and large-diameter wheels, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept expresses both toughness and agility while featuring an authentic SUV styling that stands out in outdoor scenes.

At the front, the Dynamic Shield concept, which expresses both performance and protection, has evolved in line with the concept. The L-shaped headlight in the headlight unit’s upper portion combines with the louver-like daytime running lights (DRL) below to light up in an iconic T-shape, which shows a sense of broadness. The sides of the body are composed of rich, muscular surfaces, with sculpted front and rear fender flares and character lines expressing the power and dynamism of an SUV. Like the front, the rear also features T-shaped tail lights to create a rear styling that accentuates wideness and stability.

The interior offers ease of operation and comfort – essential for an SUV. The instrument panel has a horizontally themed design, making it easier to sense changes in the vehicle’s posture when driving on rough surfaces while also improving forward visibility. Meanwhile, the dynamic design extending from the instrument panel to the door trim, along with a series of soft padding, give a sense of enclosure and protection to create a secure and comfortable interior. 

Utility provided by ease of handling and ample cargo space

 The Mitsubishi XFC Concept is designed for ease of operation, providing good forward visibility, easy perception of the vehicle’s dimensions, and smooth handling. The instrument panel features a large display panel integrating a full digital driver display and a centre display that can show three separate information layouts, such as navigation, road surface conditions, and other information necessary for driving. The screen assists in providing a safe and comfortable driving environment while also expressing a sense of advanced design. Despite its compact body size, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept is also designed for utility with ample cargo space.

Comfort provided by class-leading interior space

 Although it is a compact SUV, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept comes with a spacious cabin area, generous legroom in the rear seats and offers top-level comfort in its class. Moreover, everyone on board can feel safe and reassured, with vehicle stability control in slippery road conditions and high-quality ride comfort.

Safe and reliable driving on rough and flooded roads

 With plenty of ground clearance and four drive modes — Normal, Wet, Gravel and Mud — the Mitsubishi XFC Concept offers a fun, safe and secure ride in various weather and road conditions. The Wet mode, introduced for the first time in a Mitsubishi vehicle, is designed with use in ASEAN countries in mind, such as enabling safe driving even on roads flooded by sudden showers

• Outlander PHEV recognised for its innovation, eco-friendliness and safety credentials
• A leader in the PHEV market with 290 000 cumulative sales
• Third consecutive year of recognition in prestigious Japanese awards

JOHANNESBURG – Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has announced that the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) derivative of the all-new Outlander crossover SUV has been crowned as the Technology Car of the Year in the 2021-2022 Car of the Year Japan Awards for its innovative technologies, eco-friendliness and safety credentials.

The awards jury were unanimous in their praise for the revamped PHEV system of the all-new Outlander, which has increased the output of the front and rear motors, as well as for the extended total driving range made possible by increasing the battery and fuel tank capacity. The Outlander PHEV model was also recognised for its evolved Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics control system. Based on twin-motor 4WD, it allows nimble handling that is not normally associated with an SUV.

The all-new Outlander PHEV model is Mitsubishi Motors’ flagship model, bringing together the company’s expertise in electrification and all-wheel control technologies, while also incorporating a newly developed platform and an array of advanced technologies. Based on the product concept of “I-Fu-Do-Do” – or authentic and majestic in Japanese – the all-new model has been given significant upgrades all over, from the body and chassis to the powertrain. After its launch in 2013, the previous-generation Outlander PHEV was rolled out in global markets including Japan, Europe, Oceania, North America and ASEAN, and has been a leader in the PHEV category with more than 290 000 total units sold thus far.

About the 2021-2022 Car of the Year Japan

The 42nd Car of the Year Japan Awards were given to models that premiered or went on sale in the Japanese market between November 1, 2020, and October 31, 2021. This year, the 10 Best Cars were selected on November 5, and after the 10 Best Test Drive on November 24, the jury voted for each award. The results were announced on December 10, and winners were selected for the 2021-2022 Car of the Year, Import Car of the Year, Design Car of the Year, Technology Car of the Year, Performance Car of the Year, and K Car of the Year.

This marks the third consecutive year that Mitsubishi Motors has been recognised in the prestigious Car of the Year Japan awards. In 2018 the eK X (pronounced eK cross) and eK wagon won the Small Mobility award in 2019, and in 2020 the eK X space and eK space which were named K Car of the Year.

“This is but the latest of many awards for the Outlander PHEV,” says Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa. “In October this year it won a Good Design Award in Japan, where the panel of judges praised Mitsubishi for creating a plug-in hybrid mid-sized SUV that also offers a third row of seats.”

The 2022 Outlander also earned Mitsubishi its first-ever Wards 10 Best Interiors trophy on the strength of is distinctive design, advanced technology and outstanding value. Judges commented on its premium and luxurious design and finish, which one would normally expect to find on much more expensive vehicles.

“The Outlander PHEV is the ultimate SUV, combining all the versatility of a large family car with the ultra-low carbon footprint that’s possible with a plug-in hybrid. Being recognised with these accolades in the Car of the Year Awards is further proof that Mitsubishi continues to be at the forefront of advances in mobility and speaks to the brand’s commitment to creating vehicles that are both trendsetting and highly desirable,” concludes Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa.

• 28-point check of all safety-critical components
• Service and maintenance parts discounted by 15%
• Opportunity to win accessories to the value of R5 000

JOHANNESBURG – As 2021 draws to a close, the school year is coming to an end and many businesses are preparing for their annual shutdown. This means that many South Africans are gearing up for an age-old local tradition – year-end vacation. For those fortunate enough to be able to travel to far-off holiday destinations there is plenty to do, least of which being to ensure that their vehicles are in top-tip shape for the trip.

Mitsubishi is taking the hassle out of this vital task by once again offering a FREE 28-point safety check for all Mitsubishi vehicles, from the mighty Triton and Pajero Sport to the hot new Xpander and Eclipse Cross. Of course, the ever-popular ASX and Outlander also qualify for this offer.

Additional good news is that Mitsubishi are also offering a 15% discount on service and maintenance parts. Spreading even more festive cheer, customers will stand a chance to win an accessory voucher of R5 000.

“With the holiday season upon us, consumers are faced with additional expenses that can quickly deplete annual bonuses. This is no time to skimp on vehicle maintenance though and Mitsubishi wants to ease the burden by making sure that owners have their vehicles checked before hitting the road,” explains Jeffrey Allison, Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). “We also want to reward their loyalty by offering the opportunity to kit out their Mitsubishi with approved accessories to the value of R 5000, on us!”

Although all Mitsubishi vehicles are covered by excellent warranties and service plans, possible wear-and-tear niggles could arise between scheduled services. In addition, extended vacations might mean that scheduled maintenance is postponed. By offering a FREE safety check, Mitsubishi is offering its customers a quick, easy and no-fuss opportunity to make sure that their vehicles are ready for the road.

The FREE safety check is available from any one of the 53 Mitsubishi dealerships around the country. Highly trained technicians will inspect all safety-critical components of the vehicle. This includes ensuring that all mechanical parts of the drivetrain and powertrain are operating according to Mitsubishi’s exacting standards.

“The 28-point safety check also includes a diagnostic scan of all electrical components and circuits for any possible issues that might cause a problem or leave you stranded on the side of the road,” Allison says. “This will provide owners the peace of mind of knowing that their vehicles are mechanically and electronically reliable.

MMSA believes that offering value-for-money, high-quality products means nothing if this is not backed up with exceptional customer care and aftersales service. Providing a FREE safety check is just another way of ensuring that the entire ownership experience is a positive one.

Mitsubishi owners can book a FREE safety check at their nearest dealer or by visiting the MMSA website – www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za/book-a-service/.

• Unbeatable deals offered on all Mitsubishi models
• Impressive line-up continues to provide great value for money
• Visit Mitsubishi website now for full details

JOHANNESBURG – In South Africa summertime is synonymous with sun, fun, exploring and making memories with loved ones. In this spirit, Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) is offering “Sizzling Summer Deals” which are sure to turn up the heat this holiday season.

“MMSA believes that while tans fade, memories last forever and what better way to create and experience magical moments than in one of our models? Whether you prefer 4×4 adventures, outdoor thrills or urban excitement, there is a Mitsubishi to cater to every lifestyle,” says Jeff Allison, General Manager: Marketing at MMSA. “By offering customers unbeatable deals on our entire model range, we want to make this a summer to remember.”

Legendary Pajero Sport from R6 999 per month

The Pajero Sport has long been a favourite with discerning 4×4 adventurers, combining off-road prowess with on-road comfort. All models are powered by Mitsubishi’s 2.4L MIVEC turbodiesel four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel engine, with 133 kW and 430 Nm of peak torque on tap. The powerplant is mated to an advanced eight-speed automatic transmission.

“Adding huge value to the new Pajero Sport is the fact that many additional features come as standard as opposed to most of its competitors where it attracts an extra cost,” Allison adds.

“It was designed and built to help those with an adventurous spirit escape the mundane and get their adrenaline pumping. Think of any terrain and Pajero Sport will get you there – and back – safely and comfortably.”

Unbeatable Triton from R6 299 per month

For many South Africans a bakkie is more than simply a practical vehicle; it is also a status symbol. Although consumers use it for work, they also want to be able to take it out to play and this is where the Triton shines. It’s tough and it looks the part.

“The Triton is the epitome of tough in a kid leather glove,” says Allison. “It combines Mitsubishi’s tried-and-tested 2.4L MIVEC turbodiesel engine with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.”

Apart from good looks inside and out, the Triton also boasts the latest in active safety and driver assistance systems, as well as a very capable 4WD system that delivers impressive off-road performance. There are four models in the line-up: two 4×2 models and two 4×4 models. All are double-cab derivatives.

Practical Outlander from R5 999 per month

Besides a fresh, modern and stylish look, the seven-seater Outlander is packed with a raft of features that will make any trip a comfortable and enjoyable experience. “Its contemporary overall design speaks of style and practicality, offering outstanding comfort for families in the urban environment as well as on the open road and out in nature,” Allison explains.

Under the bonnet is a 2.4-litre petrol engine, mated to an automatic six-step continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Exciting Eclipse Cross from R5 199 per month

Combining dynamic performance, spirited design and progressive technology, the new Eclipse Cross is crafted to ignite passion. Key features of the range include a striking exterior design, an extensive list of comfort features, improved practicality, proven performance, impressive safety credentials, enhanced technology and connectivity, and greater value for money.

“The Eclipse Cross was a hit from the word go,” says Allison. “When one considers that it has a strong SUV heritage and represents all the best attributes of the Mitsubishi brand, it stands out amongst vehicles that offer affordability and very little else. Here you have a unique, high-quality vehicle that is packed with standard features and offers exceptional value for money too. And let’s not forget that its dynamic and eye-catching design gives it a stylish presence on the road.”

There are two engine options, the first being Mitsubishi’s latest 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo charged petrol engine. The second engine option is the 2.0-litre MIVEC DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder powerplant. Both are mated to a CVT.

Evergreen ASX from R4 399 per month

Targeted at young families, and branded as a youthful, urbanised SUV, the ASX has all the benefits of a compact SUV. It has a spacious interior, a roomy boot and extra height, but also boasts the nimble manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency of a smaller car. “Add to that appealing styling, good performance and plenty of space and it’s easy to see how the ASX manages to hold its own against other offerings in the market,” Allison comments.

As a family vehicle, the ASX comes standard with Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC), Hill Start Assist and seven airbags. ABS and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) also form part of a package that offers real value for money.

Versatile Xpander from R3 399 per month

Says Allison: “Combining the versatility and practicality of a multipurpose vehicle (MPV) with the rugged and sporty looks of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV), the seven-seater Xpander has taken the market by storm.”

A key feature is the flexible seating, which can be configured to suit a variety of needs, ranging from carrying passengers and luggage to transporting lifestyle-focused items. The second- and third-row seats have a 60/40 split, while the seats of the third row can be folded completely flat and stowed to create additional space in the cargo area. The latter also features a floor box with lid for safe storage of smaller items.

There are two models in the local line-up. Both feature a 1.5-litre engine and main difference between the two is the use of either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.

“Discerning South African customers continue to show interest in Mitsubishi’s diverse range of products and the exceptional value for money they represent. As the market continues to heat up towards the end of the year, our Sizzling Summer Deals are guaranteed to provide extra zing this summer,” concludes Allison.

Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za/sizzling-summer-deals/ to view all special deals or to book a test drive.

• Brand representation expanded in four provinces
• Total number of dealerships in South Africa increases to 53
• All new dealerships feature Mitsubishi’s revitalised corporate identity

JOHANNESBURG – It has been a very busy year for Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) thus far. Not only has it added two new models to its local line-up of popular vehicles, but in the second quarter of 2021 it also expanded its dealer footprint with the opening of five new facilities in four provinces. This brings the total number of Mitsubishi dealerships in South Africa to 53.

“The opening of these five new facilities is a continuation of MMSA’s approach to the strategic placement of dealerships in order to capitalise on the popularity of the Mitsubishi brand. It goes hand in hand with our targeted new model strategy and aims to continue bringing new customers into the Mitsubishi fold,” says Jeff Allison, Manager: Marketing at MMSA.

Two of the new dealerships are located in Gauteng; the first being Mitsubishi Motors Zambezi in Pretoria and the other, CMH Mitsubishi Midrand. The brand’s presence in the Free State has been bolstered with the opening of Morgan Mitsubishi Bethlehem and CMH Mitsubishi Ballito caters to customers on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Finally, Mitsubishi Motors Paarl is now open for business in the Western Cape.

The new dealerships all flaunt Mitsubishi’s new corporate identity, which was introduced locally in April 2021. “These facilities communicate our vision, purpose, values, cultures and behaviour by using images, styles, colours and themes that represent the brand,” Allison continues. “We wanted to create spaces that are attractive and inviting, allowing customers to interact with our products in environments that appeal to the senses.”

CMH Mitsubishi Ballito opened its doors as recently as July 1st and is a true representation of the comfort and style for which the brand is known.

Says dealer principal, Nathi Mhlongo: “The fact that we opened for business shortly before Mitsubishi introduced the refreshed Eclipse Cross meant that we hit the ground running, so to speak. There has been immense interest in this newcomer and it has brought a steady stream of customers to our showroom floor.

“Mitsubishi has a proud history in South Africa and the solid reputation of its vehicles is such that they virtually sell themselves. Apart from ensuring that sales keep ticking over, it is our responsibility to continue building on this strong foundation by offering top-quality service.”

Similarly, CMH Mitsubishi Midrand also had a brand new model on its showroom floor shortly after it went operational at the beginning of June. In this case it was the all-new Xpander and according to dealer principal, John Grey, this has boosted interest in the new facility and the brand.

“Creating a successful and appealing brand requires proper strategy, positioning, marketing, and messaging to appeal to one’s target market,” says Grey. “Mitsubishi has been highly successful in achieving this and as a new dealership we are reaping the benefits.”

Dealerships around the country have reported continued customer interest in the diverse range of Mitsubishi products on sale in South Africa. The five new dealerships will capitalise on this interest by attracting new customers, thus expanding the base of loyal Mitsubishi customers.

“Our dealers have always had a reputation for going above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to providing customer service of the highest calibre. We are confident that the five new dealerships will have a positive impact on sales figures across all segments of the local market in which Mitsubishi is represented. A brand is only as strong as its dealer network and Mitsubishi is fortunate enough to currently find itself on a very firm footing indeed,” Allison concludes.

A full list of all Mitsubishi dealerships, along with their locations and contact details, is available on www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za.

• Mitsubishi’s local history stretches well over half a decade
• Bakkies and SUVs have been mainstays of the brand since the very beginning
• As part of the Motus Group the brand continues to go from strength to strength

JOHANNESBURG – In September every year South Africa celebrates Heritage Month in recognition of the diverse traditions, cultures and uniqueness of its people. Mitsubishi, too, has a rich local heritage; one that stretches back over more than 50 years. In much the same way as our Rainbow Nation has shown its resilience and strong character over many generations, Mitsubishi has proven its passion for quality, durability and staying power.

Mitsubishi on local soil

Mitsubishi made its first appearance in South Africa in 1968 when the Colt 1100 Fastback was assembled by Praetor Industries in Rosslyn. Since then the brand has found a home under the umbrella of various different companies. This includes the Sigma Motor Corporation, which sold the unusually styled Colt 1100 range of hatch, bakkie and station wagon models, as well as the stylish Dodge Colt coupé locally. At the time Mitsubishis were also manufactured at what is today the Ford assembly plant in Silverton, Pretoria.

In 1985 Sigma merged with the local subsidiary of Ford Motor Company of Canada to form Samcor and the Mitsubishi brand found a new home once again. However, certain models were still being built in Pretoria. Ten years later, in 1995, Mercedes-Benz South Africa took over custodianship of Mitsubishi in this country and, notably, produced the Triton (and Colt bakkie) was moved to its plant in East London. In 2011 that all changed when Imperial Holdings took over responsibility for the Japanese brand, and local production ceased. Today, as part of the Motus Group, Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) handles the import and distribution of the brand and has seen to it that the renowned three-diamond logo takes up its rightful place as a legend of the motor industry.

Says Jeff Allison, General Manager: Marketing at MMSA: “Historically, the Pajero and the Colt bakkie were extremely popular with the local buying public and we have been able to keep this momentum going with the introduction of a raft of new models. Of course this includes the Triton bakkie and the Pajero Sport, both of which have contributed significantly to drawing customers to the Mitsubishi fold.”

This popularity should come as no surprise as, around the globe, Mitsubishi has a well-earned reputation for producing capable, reliable and comfortable bakkies, and has successfully been doing so for well over 40 years. It can also rightfully lay claim to developing and producing the world’s first sport-utility vehicle (SUV).

In South Africa, where bakkies, SUVs and lifestyle vehicles are hugely popular, this has stood the brand in good stead and saw the Pajero and the Triton attain iconic status.

The legend of Pajero

The Pajero’s heritage runs all the way back to 1934 when the Mitsubishi PX33 prototype was commissioned for the Japanese government. Almost 50 years later Mitsubishi presented the first Pajero prototype at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 1973, with the second prototype following in 1978. The first generation of the Pajero made its debut at the same show in 1981 and was launched around the globe in 1982. At its peak, it was being sold in over 170 countries and regions.

The Pajero was discontinued in the Japanese market in August 2019 and as of March 2021 production has fully ceased in all markets.

The Pajero, in all its forms and iterations over the years, was widely recognised as a top-class SUV, both here and abroad. It all started back in 1985 when a Pajero, in the hands of French motorsport legend Stéphane Peterhansel, clinched the first of 12 record Dakar victories for the brand. To this day this unprecedented performance is credited with spurring on local sales of the Pajero, as well as that of its successor, the Pajero Sport, with many buyers arguing that if it’s good enough for Peterhansel, it’s good enough for them.

“Widely regarded as one of the best true 4x4s in the world, the Pajero generated well over three million sales in its 40-year run,” says Allison.

Triton follows in proud footsteps

The sterling reputation of the Pajero – and, as a result the brand as a whole – also had a positive impact on the reputation of the Triton, of which the latest generation was introduced locally in 2019, less than six months after the world launch. Since then it has consistently been hailed as a highly competent offering in the bakkie segment, and one that caters to the needs of discerning buyers.

“With a bakkie-building heritage that stretches well over 40 years, Mitsubishi managed to enhance and refine the current Triton in such a way that it has found favour with commercial and leisure users who appreciate all that the brand and the nameplate represents in terms of pedigree,” explains Allison.

Notably, that pedigree includes the Spirit of Africa Trophy, where the Colt Rodeo – forefather of today’s Triton – was hailed by events organiser, Sarel van der Merwe, as being a highly capable off-roader. In fact, it was Mitsubishi’s reputation for producing off-road vehicles of the highest quality that prompted Van der Merwe to choose the brand as vehicle partner in the first place.

The story continues

Mitsubishi celebrated its centenary in 2017 and MMSA capitalised on the auspicious occasion to focus renewed attention on the brand’s long and proud local history. The South African introduction of the highly anticipated Pajero Sport was the natural next step in updating and maintaining that image and many exciting new pages have already been added to the story that is Mitsubishi in South Africa.

Apart from the Triton and the Pajero Sport, the Mitsubishi ASX, Xpander and Eclipse Cross are also available locally. The latest iteration of the Outlander will also be added to the line-up in the not-too-distant future.

“Since gaining the distribution rights for Mitsubishi, MMSA has placed strong focus on ensuring that it continues to build on the strong reputation and loyal following the brand has in South Africa. As we venture into new territory with fresh models that expand our customer base, it’s our Mitsubishi heritage and exemplary track record in the local market that resonates most with our consumers, new and old,” Allison concludes.