by Mitsubishi’s Plans for 2026
Expansion of the Model Lineup
Mitsubishi is strengthening its vehicle lineup for the USA, and this time it’s not an electric crossover. The manufacturer has announced plans to introduce a second new model for North America, which will add serious off-road character to the existing range.
Building on the success of the Outlander Trail Edition, Mitsubishi will soon release a tougher variant of its popular family SUV, which is designed for off-road driving or at least won’t be damaged by such use.
Off-Road Characteristics
The future model will debut in 2026 and will receive special off-road body elements, drive modes, and performance enhancements, Mitsubishi reports. It will also have a unique interior with more durable and hard-wearing materials.
The new variant will expand the Outlander family and Mitsubishi’s presence in the USA as part of the broader Momentum 2030 strategy, which promises at least one new or updated model every year until the end of the decade.
Although Mitsubishi has not yet published any photos, the description suggests more than just cosmetic changes. Expect a bolder look, more massive bumpers, underbody protection, and a possible suspension tune for better ground clearance and capability over rocks and ruts.
American Outlanders have front-wheel drive as standard, but Mitsubishi states that the new model will take the optional Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system “to the next level,” so expect standard all-wheel drive and recalibrated software for more challenging trails.
The sluggish 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 181 hp is unlikely to change, although hopefully, Mitsubishi will also offer the 2.4-liter PHEV powertrain from the Outlander Hybrid. This configuration delivers 248 hp and cuts the 0-60 mph acceleration time by almost 1.5 seconds compared to the non-electrified version, which takes over 8 seconds.
Dual Expansion
This rugged Outlander will appear alongside a new all-electric model (a rebadged Nissan Leaf), which Mitsubishi had already confirmed earlier this year, and it is scheduled to arrive in the summer of 2026.
Together, these two SUVs will help the brand attract both adventure seekers and environmentally conscious commuters, and will also help dealers fill the free time they have after the discontinuation of the small Mirage in 2024.
Mitsubishi has not yet published any images of its new rugged Outlander, but it should be even more nature-oriented than the Outlander Trail Edition shown in the gallery below.
These new models from Mitsubishi demonstrate the brand’s strategy to cover different market segments simultaneously. The approach combining traditional off-road capabilities with electrification could prove effective in modern conditions where buyers increasingly seek versatility and environmental friendliness. The success of these initiatives will largely depend on the execution details and competitive pricing, especially against the backdrop of active development of electric and hybrid technologies across the entire automotive sector.
