As reported by Japanese media outlet Car Watch, Mitsubishi president Keisuke Kishiura stated that he would like to bring the company to a level where it could feasibly develop performance models such as the Lancer Evolution and Galant once again.
This statement was made at Mitsubishi’s 57th annual shareholder meeting held last week, June 18th, in response to a shareholder’s request to revive some of the Japanese brand’s legacy models. Optimism for a return to form for Mitsubishi comes from the upcoming return of the Pajero, one of the brand’s most recognizable nameplates.
Kishiura commented on a potential revival for these nameplates: “Models such as the Lancer Evolution, Diamante, and Galant are extremely important to Mitsubishi Motors, and we consider them treasures.
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“While we do not have any concrete plans to launch these models at this time, we aim to build a company capable of bringing these wonderful cars back to the market in the future so that we can meet your expectations.”
Despite sharing the same brand recognition as the Pajero due to their motorsport heritage, the Lancer and Galant have yet to see successors as the brand’s focus previously shifted away from sedans.
Naturally, the discussion also spurred follow-up questions on the possibility of Mitsubishi making a return to the WRC. Kishiura responded with the same tempered optimism: although it is his dream to see Mitsubishi return to rallying, the company must first regain its footing.
Looking towards Mitsubishi’s future, the Philippines will play a key role as the brand’s third largest market, behind Japan and Vietnam. It also previously shared plans for a 13-model blitz (primarily made up of SUVs and crossovers) over the next five years, including the new Pajero as well as an Xpander successor.
