MITSUBISHI is set to return to the UK market in the summer of 2026 – with a plug-in hybrid Outlander and a L200 pick-up to kick things off.
Both models will be available in limited numbers and will likely test the waters before a broader range is introduced in the following months.
While UK specifications and pricing are yet to be confirmed, the L200 will launch in a high-spec, dual-cab format aimed to rival the likes of the Ford Ranger, Volkswagen Amarok and Toyota Hilux.
And the mid-size Outlander PHEV will come back in plug-in hybrid guise – similar to the original and widely-loved 2012 model, with up to seven seats and powered by all-wheel-drive.
The long-awaited comeback is being managed by International Motors Ltd, one of the UK’s largest vehicle importers and distributors – which also represents Subaru and little-known Chinese firm Great Wall Motors.
Mitsubishi, which was last seen in the UK some five years ago, now operates within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance – with several models drawn directly from partner platforms.
In Europe, this has yielded the Renault Clio-based Colt supermini and the Captur-based ASX, as well as the Outlander, which shares its underpinnings with the Nissan X-Trail.
A rebadged version of the Renault Scenic EV, set to be called the Eclipse Cross and a smaller EV derived from the latest Nissan Leaf, are also in the works.
Mitsubishi’s heritage and core expertise remain rooted in rugged vehicles like the Shogun Sport and L200.
The brand knows it retains a substantial UK footprint for customer support, with more than 100 sites already in place for aftersales across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
And to add to that, dedicated dealers for new-car sales are being appointed ahead of the summer 2026 relaunch.
Sharon Townsend, Head of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, previously said: “We’re delighted to be introducing exciting new Mitsubishi vehicles to our loyal UK customers.
“Over the past few years, we’ve continued to see enthusiasm for the brand, which has strongly influenced this decision.
“By building on our trusted aftersales network and dedicated retailer partners, we are committed to providing an exceptional ownership experience.”
Mitsubishi originally chose to withdraw from the UK as part of a broader cost‑cutting strategy, focusing on more profitable Asian markets in response to weak European sales, rising costs – including compliance with EU emissions regulations – and the impact of the COVID‑19 pandemic.
This comes as the Ford Fiesta looks set to be making a dramatic comeback as an electric car – some two years after it was discontinued.
The iconic hatchback, the UK’s all-time best-seller with more than 4.8 million sold, could return thanks to a new tech-sharing deal struck between Ford and Renault.
Tipped to be built on Renault’s Ampere platform, it’ll utilise the same underpinnings used by the wildly-popular Renault 5 E‑Tech.
Ford’s first model from the partnership is due in early 2028 with a second small EV to follow – and the Fiesta name is the clear front-runner to lead the charge.
The Fiesta was discontinued in 2023, with orders paused in 2022 as Ford opted to switch gears and focus on more profitable models like SUVs and crossovers.
