Mitsubishi CEO positions the new ASX VR-e GSR EV as the spiritual successor to the legendary Lancer Evolution.
Mitsubishi Motors recently unveiled the ASX VR-e, specifically for the Australian and New Zealand markets. This introduction marks the brand’s return to the battery-electric vehicle (BEV) segment in these regions. The new lineup features three rear-wheel-drive variants, with the dual-motor all-wheel-drive GSR derivative spearheading the range. The Japanese brand bases this design on a Taiwanese platform, namely ‘Foxtron Model B’.
Speaking to Australia’s Drive, Mitsubishi Australia chief executive Shunichi Kihara said the ASX VR-e GSR embodies the spirit of the discontinued Lancer Evo range, as highlighted by the ‘GSR’ moniker. He said, “Clearly, our brand heritage is around Pajero and Evo, and many people still talk about those products… That doesn’t mean we don’t do any kind of Evo type of vehicle, and that’s why we bring this VR-e with this strong performance.”
Reviving a legend with the ASX VR-e GSR
Fed by a 57.7 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery, the single-motor variants generate 171 kW and 350 N.m of torque – good for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 6.8 seconds. Meanwhile, the performance-focused GSR adds an electric motor on the front axle. This additional e-motor doubles outputs to 342 kW and 700 N.m, which reduces the sprint time to 3.9 seconds. Furthermore, the system alters power delivery dynamically in the GSR variant. Italian design house Pininfarina styled the vehicle to optimise aerodynamic performance. Key exterior features include an S-Duct front bumper, active grille shutters, flush door handles, and specialised alloy wheels.
Mitsubishi Australia product manager Tim Clarke highlighted the ASX VR-e GSR’s rear-wheel-drive bias characteristics in sport mode. The badge also honours the Galant VR-4 performance legacy. Testing at the Lang Lang proving ground allowed the carmaker to refine the dampers, bump stops, and steering specifically for Australian roads. Although Mitsubishi currently focuses on launching core models, executive interest in performance revivals remains strong. Following the rally-inspired Triton Raider (pictured above), company leadership highlighted the Lancer Evolution and Galant’s history as core heritage assets for potential future expansion if initial sales succeed.
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