Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Mitsubishi Motors

Mitsubishi Motors is one of Japan’s most storied automotive manufacturers, known for its engineering innovation, motorsport success, and global market presence. As a member of the larger Mitsubishi Group, the car company traces its roots back to the early 20th century and has played a significant role in shaping Japan’s automotive industry. From rugged SUVs to turbocharged rally cars, Mitsubishi has produced some of the most beloved vehicles of their kind.

Origins: The Mitsubishi Group and Early Automotive Efforts

Mitsubishi’s origins lie within the Mitsubishi zaibatsu, a powerful Japanese industrial conglomerate founded by Yataro Iwasaki in the 1870s. The group was involved in shipping, banking, mining, and manufacturing. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) became the parent of the company’s engineering and transportation sectors.

1917: The First Mitsubishi Car

Mitsubishi’s automotive history began in 1917 with the production of the Mitsubishi Model A, Japan’s first series-production passenger car. Based on the Fiat Tipo 3, it was a hand-built, seven-seat luxury car designed for government and military use. Only 22 units were made, making it a commercial failure but a significant historical milestone.

Post-War Recovery and Growth

Following World War II, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was split into separate companies by Allied occupation forces. In the 1950s, the Mitsubishi brand re-entered the automotive sector as Japan rebuilt its economy.

1953–1960: Light Vehicles and Strategic Alliances

Mitsubishi began building vehicles under license from companies such as Willys and Fiat. In 1960, it introduced the Mitsubishi 500, a small, rear-engined car aimed at Japan’s growing middle class. This was followed by the Minica kei car and the larger Colt series.

1970: Formation of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC)

In 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation was officially spun off from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to focus solely on automobile production. This move allowed Mitsubishi to concentrate on developing a global presence.

Partnership with Chrysler

Around the same time, Mitsubishi began exporting vehicles to the United States through a partnership with Chrysler, which took a 15% stake in the company. Cars like the Dodge Colt were rebranded Mitsubishis, introducing the Japanese brand to American consumers under domestic badges.

1980s: Expansion and Technological Advancement

The 1980s were a period of rapid growth for Mitsubishi. The company expanded its product range, developed in-house engines and platforms, and increased its global market share.

Breakthrough Models

• Mitsubishi Lancer – A compact sedan introduced in 1973 that gained international recognition in the 1980s.
• Mitsubishi Galant – A midsize car that offered advanced features and was exported worldwide.
• Mitsubishi Pajero (Montero/Shogun) – Launched in 1982, it became a hugely successful SUV known for its off-road capability and Dakar Rally dominance.

Motorsport Success

Mitsubishi established a strong motorsport presence in the 1980s, especially in rallying. The Pajero won multiple Dakar Rallies, while the Lancer and Galant were developed into rally-spec cars.

1990s: Golden Age and Global Prestige

Mitsubishi enjoyed its golden era in the 1990s, marked by high-performance cars, technological innovation, and a broad international footprint.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

First introduced in 1992, the Lancer Evolution (or Evo) became an instant icon. Equipped with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, the Evo was a rally-bred road car that rivaled the Subaru WRX. Each successive version (Evo I through Evo X) refined the formula, gaining legendary status among enthusiasts.

3000GT/GTO and Sports Car Ambitions

The Mitsubishi 3000GT (known as the GTO in Japan) was a technological showcase. It featured innovations like active aerodynamics, four-wheel steering, and twin-turbo V6 power. It competed with the Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7, and Nissan 300ZX in the Japanese sports car wars.

Global Manufacturing

Mitsubishi expanded production to Thailand, Australia, Europe, and the United States. In 1985, it co-founded Diamond-Star Motors with Chrysler, producing vehicles like the Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and Plymouth Laser.

2000s: Scandals and Financial Crisis

The early 2000s were difficult for Mitsubishi Motors. The company was rocked by a series of scandals involving concealed safety defects and vehicle recalls, damaging its reputation.

Financial Restructuring

Facing mounting debt, Mitsubishi Motors received a bailout from other Mitsubishi Group companies and external investors. DaimlerChrysler (which had merged by this time) increased its stake but ultimately divested by 2005 due to ongoing issues.

Production Cuts and Declining Sales

Several manufacturing facilities were closed, and Mitsubishi withdrew from some global markets. Despite still offering strong products, the company was forced to scale back operations and reassess its strategy.

2010s: Reinvention and Nissan-Renault Alliance

Mitsubishi began to recover by focusing on its core strengths: SUVs, small cars, and electric technology.

Outlander and Crossover Success

The Mitsubishi Outlander became a global success, especially the plug-in hybrid variant (Outlander PHEV), which was the best-selling plug-in hybrid SUV in the world for several years.

Electric Innovation

Mitsubishi was an early adopter of electric vehicles. The i-MiEV (2009) was one of the first mass-produced EVs in the world. Though limited in range and size, it positioned Mitsubishi as a pioneer in eco-friendly vehicles.

Nissan-Renault Alliance

In 2016, Mitsubishi was again hit by a scandal involving fuel economy data manipulation. This led to Nissan acquiring a 34% controlling stake in Mitsubishi, making it part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. This provided stability, shared technology, and a new strategic direction.

2020s: Present and Future Direction

Today, Mitsubishi is focused on delivering affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly vehicles. Its strength in emerging markets, hybrid technology, and SUVs continues to support its global relevance.

Key Current Models

• Mitsubishi Outlander – Available in petrol, hybrid, and PHEV variants.
• Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross – A compact crossover with hybrid options.
• Mitsubishi Triton/L200 – A durable pickup popular in Asia and the Pacific.
• Mitsubishi Xpander – A small MPV popular in Southeast Asia.

Electric and Autonomous Future

Mitsubishi is leveraging alliance partnerships to develop next-generation EVs and autonomous driving systems. Its focus remains on delivering practical vehicles that balance innovation with affordability.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Mitsubishi’s legacy spans more than a century of industrial innovation. From its humble beginnings with the Model A to the legendary Lancer Evolution, Mitsubishi has consistently pushed boundaries. Its motorsport pedigree, engineering accomplishments, and global manufacturing impact make it a major figure in automotive history.

Conclusion

The Mitsubishi car company has faced dramatic highs and difficult lows, yet it endures as a key global automaker. Its commitment to practical innovation, clean energy, and performance has left a lasting mark. As Mitsubishi navigates a rapidly evolving industry, it continues to adapt, evolve, and drive forward into a cleaner, more connected future.