Mitsubishi returns to UK - Can we expect a new Lancer Evo?
Mitsubishi is coming back to the UK!
The Japanese giant and creator of the beloved Evo Lancer has announced it will introduce new Mitsubishi vehicles to the UK market from summer 2026, with the process overseen by importer and distributor International Motors Ltd. The company currently handles the affairs of GWM, Subaru, Xpeng and Isuzu in the UK.
It marks the end of a five year absence from the UK market, and while the brand has yet to confirm which vehicles it will introduce, the teaser image provided with its return statement suggests some form of SUV. This may mean a brand new version of its popular Outlander, although it will more than likely mean the Eclipse Cross Electric - revealed in September - will make its way to the UK from Europe.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Electric was revealed to the European market in September
Then, of course, there is the matter of the Colt supermini and ASX SUV, which were released in Europe through Mitsubishi’s Alliance partnership with Renault.
“We’ve continued to see enthusiasm for the brand”
Sharon Townsend, Head of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, 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 after sales network and dedicated retailer partners, we are committed to providing an exceptional ownership experience.”
Frank Krol, President & CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Europe, also commented: “Our upcoming models represent the very best of Mitsubishi Motors’ core technologies in performance, four-wheel drive, and much more. We look forward to a successful introduction in the UK – a market where our brand continues to have a deep emotional connection with loyal customers.”
Where will they be sold and when will they be delivered?
Sales of Mitsubishi’s new range will go through its already established network of sites, with a selection of retailers now being appointed to handle sales and customer service. Deliveries are set to begin in summer 2026.
The question on everyone’s lips
However, all of this talk of SUVs and superminis distracts from the most important Mitsubishi question of all…will there be a new Lancer Evo?
The Evo was born in 1992, and the final of its ten versions was released in 2008 before production ceased in 2016. It was originally only intended for the Japanese market; however, its popularity and demand led Mitsubishi to offer it to the UK and then America. It had notable success across a range of racing disciplines, including rallying, hill climbs and on track, while it also cemented its cultural significance in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Forza, Gran Turismo, and Need for Speed video games.
Hopefully, Evo fans’ prayers worldwide are answered, but we can only wait and see…
Sean Boswell’s red Evo in The Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift. Credit - Universal Pictures
words: Mike Booth
picture: IM Group / Mitsubishi