Mitsubishi will revive the Ralliart name on the Outlander PHEV

For the moment, it seems that these are only rumors, but they are more and more persistent, and we are certainly not talking about a distant future. It is rumored that Mitsubishi will launch a Ralliart version of the Outlander PHEV for the 2024 model year, so very soon. The big question mark is in which markets Mitsubishi intends to release this more capable and uniquely designed product. Will North America be entitled to it? Let’s hope so, because the marriage of power and plug-in hybridization is usually a happy mix.

Styling-wise, it’s not yet clear what Mitsubishi will take away from the concept, but one thing is certain, what was previously unveiled had a sporty and dynamic approach. Conceptually, the layout of the grille is completely different from the production version. We discover an impressive three-dimensional effect with a beautiful depth. The bumpers are also completely revised with more dynamic features and, above all, a lower configuration for better air penetration. At the rear, we even push the audacity to affix a diffuser with a perforated finish. There’s a nice touch of competition with the central brake light on the bumper. The highlight of the show, however, is the contribution of the 22-inch rims with their fan blade design.

On the mechanical level, the engine of the PHEV version is renewed. We are talking about a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder with 2 electric motors and a generator. In its current form, combined output is 248 horsepower with 332 lb-ft of torque. By adopting the Ralliart formula, engineers are rumored to be able to increase output by 38 horsepower for a total of 286.

As for the technique, the 20 kilowatt-hour battery will be renewed, but considering the alterations, it is assumed that the announced range of 61 kilometers will be reduced. It is also planned that the suspensions will be revisited to improve handling. As for the brakes, we allow ourselves to believe that, like the concept, we will find more efficient discs and 6-piston calipers.

For the moment, this product remains speculative, but we allow ourselves to believe that Mitsubishi will have the audacity to go ahead with its production.

Conclusion

We always allow ourselves to dream of the return of a high-performance EVOLUTION car, but Ralliart could do the job for a while. Mitsubishi has long been associated with power, fun to drive and rallying. That’s certainly not the case anymore, but the idea of ​​giving the Outlander PHEV a more capable version is a good one. As we know, electrification helps reduce fuel consumption, but can also very well serve as a power gain for more speed.

Let’s hope that the manufacturer goes ahead and, above all, that the product is imported into Canada, that it is not exclusive to Japan. His arrival, even if it must be in limited quantities, will serve the image of Mitsubishi and, above all, will give us the impression that the company does not completely deny its glorious past.