Mitsubishi Motors Australia (MMAL) has confirmed that it has ceased production of current-generation ASX, Eclipse Cross, Eclipse Cross PHEV and Pajero Sport models due to new Australian Design Rules (ADR) that will take effect on March 1 this year.
“Given the position of ASX, Eclipse Cross and Pajero Sport in their current life cycles, investment towards the re-engineering of these vehicles to incorporate the new ADRs was not commercially feasible,” said MMAL CEO, Shaun Westcott.
“As a result, Australian production of these vehicles has ended. We have worked closely with our dealer partners to ensure each model line will be ordered in sufficient quantities ahead of time. This will support our customers while we continue to confirm our future model plans as a core Mitsubishi market. We will announce these future models in due course,” he said.
Mitsubishi has confirmed that servicing and parts for the outgoing models will continue to be supported throughout its dealer network.
The brand also announced that a next-generation Mitsubishi ASX will arrive in Australia in 2025, based on the new model already available in Europe.
“The new Mitsubishi ASX blends thoroughly modern design and a dynamic driving experience to the next generation of ASX customers,” said Mr Westcott.
“We look forward to sharing more details of this intriguing new SUV as we move closer to its market launch in 2025.”
The latest-generation Mitsubishi ASX is the next step in the Momentum 2030 business plan outlined earlier this year by Takao Kato, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
Momentum 2030 includes several new or significantly updated vehicles to be launched in Australia by 2030, featuring a mix of electric, combustion and hybrid powertrains.
The first step in the plan was the confirmation that Australia will receive an updated Outlander range, including the PHEV, in 2025. The PHEV model also promises a larger battery and improved performance, as well as enhanced design, technology and connectivity with more details to come.
Mitsubishi also outlined additional Triton grades and body styles coming to Australia, following the introduction of the GLX-R variant, including a Cab Chassis model this year.
Additionally, the recent acquisition of a five per cent stake in FleetPartners Group, an Australian fleet leasing company, further indicates Mitsubishi’s commitment to Australia as sales channels and business opportunities continue to evolve.
“Mitsubishi Motors Australia is proud to remain a core market for the global Mitsubishi Motors Corporation,” Mr Westcott said.
“We look forward to enjoying this close working relationship further as we navigate to 2030 and beyond, offering Australians an impressive range of highly capable vehicles from a trusted brand.”
