Mitsubishi will return to the UK market through International Motors Ltd, with the all-electric Eclipse Cross set to spearhead the brand’s comeback starting summer 2026.
The Japanese automaker withdrew from Britain in 2021 to concentrate on more profitable core markets. Now IML has confirmed it will bring select models from Mitsubishi’s global lineup to UK customers.
Sharon Townsend, head of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said the company has seen continued enthusiasm for the brand despite its absence.
“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.”
Eclipse Cross BEV leads electric push
The Eclipse Cross BEV will likely anchor Mitsubishi’s return. The electric SUV shares its foundation with the Renault Scenic E-Tech, built on the same CMF-EV platform that underpins the Nissan Leaf.
Mitsubishi has redesigned the front end with its signature “Dynamic Shield” grille featuring a 3D honeycomb pattern around the three-diamond badge. The SUV gets distinctive running lights and triangular-themed 20-inch alloy wheels.
The rest of the vehicle shows its Renault heritage.
Under the hood, the Eclipse Cross BEV packs an 87kWh battery delivering approximately 373 miles of range. A front-mounted motor produces 215bhp, with DC fast charging speeds up to 150kW.
A medium-range variant will follow later, expected to use the 60kWh battery from the Renault Megane. Renault’s Douai factory will assemble the Eclipse Cross BEV.
The return might also include the Outlander PHEV – the plug-in hybrid that helped establish the PHEV market in Britain.
Frank Krol, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Europe, emphasized the brand’s emotional connection with UK customers.
“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.”
IML already handles UK imports for several Asian brands, including Subaru, Isuzu, Xpeng and GWM. The importer plans to leverage Mitsubishi’s existing aftersales network and retailer partnerships for the brand’s comeback.
Mitsubishi’s three-year absence from the UK market followed years of declining sales as the company shifted focus to Southeast Asian and other core markets where it maintains stronger market positions.
