Mitsubishi Grandis Returns As Renault-Based SUV

The automotive world is witnessing a remarkable resurrection. The Mitsubishi Grandis, a nameplate that once represented innovation in the mid-2000s, is making a triumphant return—not as the people-mover of yesteryear, but as a modern, electrified compact SUV. This comprehensive exploration delves into the fascinating journey of the Grandis, from its original inception to its groundbreaking reincarnation, showcasing how this iconic vehicle has adapted to meet the demands of contemporary mobility while honoring its pioneering heritage.

1. Historical Legacy: The Original Mitsubishi Grandis

1.1 Origins and Market Position

The original Mitsubishi Grandis emerged in 2004 as a bold statement in the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment. It was a sleek, low-slung MPV that showcased Mitsubishi’s upmarket aspirations, featuring sharp styling and a revvy MIVEC engine. The vehicle’s sophisticated design language and advanced engineering represented a significant departure from conventional MPVs of the era. Despite its innovative design and premium features, including advanced safety systems and refined interior appointments, the relatively high price point prevented it from achieving massive commercial success in a market segment dominated by more affordable alternatives.

1.2 Global Presence

Sold in Australia between 2004 and 2010, the Grandis replaced the earlier Chariot (marketed as the Mitsubishi Nimbus until 2003). It represented a sophisticated approach to family transportation, offering seven-seat versatility with a premium touch. The vehicle’s global reach extended across multiple continents, from Europe to Asia, where it garnered appreciation for its unique blend of practicality and refinement. In many markets, the Grandis established itself as a compelling alternative to established MPV competitors, particularly among buyers seeking a more distinctive and upmarket family vehicle.

1.3 Discontinuation and Market Void

The Grandis was discontinued in 2011, leaving a notable gap in Mitsubishi’s lineup. For over a decade, automotive enthusiasts and loyal Mitsubishi fans wondered about the potential return of this distinctive model. The decision to end production reflected shifting market preferences and economic challenges, but the Grandis’s legacy of innovation and versatility remained influential in shaping Mitsubishi’s future product planning strategies.

2. Strategic Partnership: Mitsubishi and Renault Alliance

2.1 The Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance

The revival of the Grandis is a direct result of the strategic collaboration between Mitsubishi and Renault. This partnership has enabled Mitsubishi to leverage Renault’s platform and technological innovations, creating a new generation of vehicles that blend Japanese design philosophy with French engineering. The alliance represents one of the most significant automotive collaborations in recent history, combining centuries of automotive expertise and cultural perspectives to address the challenges of modern mobility.

2.2 Platform Sharing and Technological Synergy

The new Grandis will ride on the CMF-B architecture, a versatile platform shared across multiple brands including Mitsubishi, Renault, Nissan, and Dacia. This collaborative approach allows for efficient development and cost-effective innovation while maintaining distinct brand identities. The platform’s advanced capabilities support various powertrains and body styles, enabling Mitsubishi to create a vehicle that meets diverse market demands while achieving economies of scale. This technological sharing extends beyond mere mechanical components, encompassing advanced driver assistance systems, connectivity features, and electrification technologies that define modern automotive excellence.

3. The New Mitsubishi Grandis: A Hybrid Compact SUV

3.1 Design and Positioning

Unlike its predecessor, the 2025 Grandis undergoes a dramatic transformation into a compact SUV specifically engineered and designed for “young families.” This strategic repositioning represents a significant departure from its MPV roots, embracing the growing demand for versatile SUVs in the modern automotive landscape. As a rebadged version of the Renault Symbioz, the new Grandis offers an extended wheelbase and enhanced practicality compared to the current Mitsubishi ASX, creating a distinct position within Mitsubishi’s expanding SUV portfolio.

3.2 Exterior Characteristics

Recently released teasers showcase the vehicle’s bold design elements, highlighting a distinctive front grille and sophisticated tailgate treatment that sets it apart in the competitive compact SUV segment. The model-specific features incorporate a comprehensively redesigned grille that pays homage to Mitsubishi’s design heritage while pushing aesthetic boundaries. The latest iteration of Mitsubishi’s signature “Dynamic Shield” design language evolves to create a more contemporary and assertive presence on the road. With precise dimensions of 4,413 mm (173.7 inches), the new Grandis strikes an optimal balance between urban maneuverability and interior spaciousness, positioning it strategically within the compact SUV segment where every millimeter counts.

3.3 Powertrain and Electrification

The new Grandis demonstrates Mitsubishi’s commitment to sustainable mobility through its comprehensive range of hybrid powertrain options:

• Mild Hybrid: The foundation of the powertrain lineup features a sophisticated 1.6-liter engine incorporating mild hybrid technology. While specific power outputs remain under wraps, industry experts anticipate competitive performance figures that balance efficiency with dynamic driving characteristics.
• Full Hybrid: The flagship powertrain configuration combines the robust 1.6-liter engine with an advanced electric motor, delivering an impressive combined output of 145 horsepower. This sophisticated hybrid system optimizes power delivery while minimizing environmental impact.
• The vehicle’s remarkable claimed range of up to 1,014 kilometers sets new standards for efficiency in its class, addressing range anxiety concerns while delivering exceptional value for long-distance travelers.

3.4 Technological Features

The Grandis showcases Mitsubishi’s technological prowess through an array of advanced features:

• A comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems enhances safety and convenience, incorporating the latest developments in autonomous driving technology
• The integration of Renault’s cutting-edge Android Automotive-based operating system ensures seamless connectivity and intuitive user interaction
• Built-in Google applications provide enhanced functionality and real-time services
• The European market benefits from both mild-hybrid and full-hybrid powertrains, offering flexibility to meet diverse driving needs and regulatory requirements

4. Market Implications and Strategic Significance

4.1 Brand Repositioning

The revival of the Grandis nameplate represents a pivotal moment in Mitsubishi’s evolution, transcending mere product introduction to embody a comprehensive strategic initiative aimed at reinforcing the brand’s position in the competitive European automotive landscape. By specifically targeting young families with a practical, electrified SUV, Mitsubishi demonstrates its deep understanding of contemporary market demands while showcasing its commitment to developing modern mobility solutions that resonate with evolving consumer preferences.

4.2 Electrification Strategy

This strategic launch forms a crucial component of Mitsubishi’s broader electrification roadmap. The manufacturer’s confirmation of an upcoming compact SUV featuring a fully electric powertrain alongside the Grandis highlights their comprehensive approach to sustainable mobility. This multi-faceted strategy ensures Mitsubishi remains at the forefront of automotive innovation while addressing various market segments and consumer needs.

5. Consumer Expectations and Market Reception

5.1 Anticipated Market Response

The resurrection of the Grandis nameplate generates a unique blend of nostalgia and anticipation within the automotive community. Previous Grandis owners and automotive enthusiasts express particular interest in this modern reinterpretation, curious to see how Mitsubishi has evolved the beloved model’s DNA to meet contemporary demands while maintaining its essential character and appeal.

5.2 Launch Details

Mitsubishi has strategically planned the Grandis debut for July, with a comprehensive market launch scheduled for late Autumn 2025. The initial focus on the European market underscores the region’s significance in Mitsubishi’s global strategy and its role as a key battleground for innovative automotive technologies.

A Promising New Chapter

The 2025 Mitsubishi Grandis represents more than just another vehicle launch—it embodies a pivotal transformation in automotive evolution, showcasing the powerful synergy between strategic partnerships, cutting-edge technological innovation, and adaptive brand management. By boldly reimagining a once-discontinued people-mover into a sophisticated, electrified compact SUV, Mitsubishi demonstrates not only its resilience but also its remarkable ability to reinvent itself for an emerging generation of environmentally conscious drivers. This strategic metamorphosis reflects a deep understanding of shifting market dynamics and evolving consumer preferences.

As the global automotive landscape continues its decisive shift towards electrification and sustainability, the Grandis stands as more than just another entry in Mitsubishi’s lineup—it serves as a beacon of the company’s forward-thinking approach. The model effectively bridges Mitsubishi’s storied heritage with an electrifying future, combining nostalgic brand elements with revolutionary technological advances. This delicate balance between tradition and innovation positions the Grandis as a compelling option for both loyal Mitsubishi enthusiasts and new customers seeking modern, sustainable mobility solutions.

Technical Specifications (Preliminary)

These specifications represent preliminary information gathered from various industry sources and official Mitsubishi communications. As with any pre-launch vehicle, these details are subject to potential modifications and refinements before the final market introduction. Customers are advised to consult official Mitsubishi channels for the most up-to-date specifications as the launch date approaches.