Mitsubishi has taken the wraps off its Elevance concept at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, and it’s generating buzz as a blueprint for the next-generation Montero. The Elevance blends a rugged, upright SUV silhouette with bold futuristic cues and a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain, marking a significant leap in ambition for Mitsubishi’s off-road lineup. The concept’s focus is clear: combining luxury, electrification, and serious off-road performance, with strong relevance for Middle East buyers seeking both adventure and advanced technology.
Exterior Design & Presence
The Elevance concept commands attention with its robust, blocky stature and distinct trapezoidal wheel arches. Mitsubishi’s signature Dynamic Shield fascia returns in evolved form, pairing a honeycomb grille with thin LED headlight strips and an illuminated Mitsubishi badge. The concept’s capsule-style glass canopy stretches deep into the doors, ensuring all passengers have panoramic outward views—ideal for desert trips or mountain adventures. The C-pillar swoops over the rear side window, and a full-width rear LED light bar completes the modern look while reinforcing classic SUV proportions. Segmented silver bumper accents further add to the combination of urban sophistication and off-road intent.
Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain & Quad-Motor Control
Under the sculpted exterior, the Elevance is powered by a high-efficiency gasoline engine compatible with carbon-neutral fuels, paired with four electric motors, one for each wheel, creating Mitsubishi’s first quad-motor All-Wheel Control plug-in hybrid system. Everyday driving relies primarily on electric motors, delivering near-silent operation and instant torque, while the gasoline engine works as a generator to extend range for longer expeditions. The system enables precise traction control at each wheel, promising best-in-class off-road stability whether climbing dunes, crossing desert wadis, or tackling technical trails. The large capacity battery is even designed to power camping trailers equipped with kitchen and shower facilities, raising the bar for comfort during outdoor adventures.
Lounge-Like Interior, Screens & AI Co-Driver
Inside, Elevance redefines SUV luxury with a lounge-inspired three-row layout accommodating six passengers in a 2+2+2 configuration. Front captain’s chairs swivel to face the rear for relaxed gatherings. Tan and white leather upholstery, minimalist horizontal panels, and three dashboard screens enhance the feeling of sophistication. The octagonal steering wheel features an embedded display for status updates and drive mode selection. Climate controls are set in a slim touchscreen bar below, and a compass-like dome on the console changes drive settings at a touch. The AI Co-Driver, shown in both the dashboard and steering wheel, offers personalized suggestions, recommending destinations and drive modes tailored to your location, habits, and even mood. The system monitors vehicle status and conditions, making real-time adjustments to optimize comfort and safety on the move.
Off-Road Capability & Glamping Trailer Innovations
Mitsubishi’s Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) with Active Yaw Control ensures traction and confidence in extreme conditions. Each in-wheel electric motor on the front axle, combined with dual motors on the rear, allows for independent control, boosting agility and stability off-road. The matching trailer is powered by the SUV battery, offering luxury glamping features including a kitchen and shower, so every stop becomes a retreat after a day on the trail. This integration transforms the SUV into the ultimate family adventure base for camping trips across Oman’s mountains or the sands of Abu Dhabi.
Market Outlook & Montero Potential
While the Elevance concept is unlikely to be produced exactly as shown, its blocky styling, advanced quad-motor PHEV setup, and focus on luxury strongly hint at the next Mitsubishi Montero. As Nissan prepares hybrid technology for its Armada, Mitsubishi could leverage shared platforms to bring an electrified, three-row Montero to global markets, including the Middle East, where off-road capability and comfort are highly prized.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Elevance concept sets new standards for the future of rugged family SUVs, pairing electrification with luxurious comfort, a trail-ready chassis, and modern AI tech. As a vision for the return of the Montero, it promises to blend adventure with environmental responsibility and high-tech convenience for buyers ready to explore beyond the pavement.
