Mitsubishi ASX VR-e: 0-100 km/h in 3.9 s, up to 403 km range

Mitsubishi is returning to electric cars in Australia almost 16 years after the i-MiEV, and its new one is anything but slow. The ASX VR-e, a small electric SUV, has been shown to Australian media ahead of its launch, The Driven reports.

Built by Foxconn's car arm

The VR-e isn't a Mitsubishi in-house design. In its August announcement, Mitsubishi Motors said the car is supplied on an OEM basis by Foxtron Vehicle Technologies, a subsidiary of Foxconn (Hon Hai), for Australia and New Zealand. Mitsubishi says its engineers tested it on local roads and gave it dedicated suspension tuning. The "VR" name nods to the Galant VR-4 sports sedan.

Battery, range and performance

According to The Driven:

• every version uses a 57.7 kWh battery from CATL;
• the three single-motor grades get 380–403 km of WLTP range based on New Zealand figures: LS 403 km, Aspire 398 km, Exceed 380 km;
• the top dual-motor GSR has 328 km of range and a claimed 0–100 km/h time of 3.9 seconds, quicker than the Lancer Evolution X and the fastest passenger car Mitsubishi has launched in Australia.

Design and cabin

Mitsubishi highlights aerodynamics: an S-duct that channels air from the front bumper over the bonnet, active grille shutters and flush door handles. The charging port sits on the front right wing with a powered flap. Pininfarina is credited with the styling.

Inside there's a 15.6-inch centre screen and a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster, plus some physical buttons. The car supports over-the-air updates, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Warranty and price

In Australia the VR-e is covered by Mitsubishi's 10-year warranty under its Diamond Advantage programme and capped-price servicing for the first 10 services (every 15,000 km or 12 months). Australian pricing hasn't been confirmed; The Driven suggests that, going by New Zealand pricing, it could start under A$50,000. Mitsubishi has said sales start in 2026.

Wondering how CATL packs compare? Our LFP vs NMC battery explainer covers the chemistry trade-offs, and our home EV charger guide explains what you need at home before an EV arrives.