The Mitsubishi AR concept has been unveiled at the Tokyo motor show, previewing a flexible plug-in hybrid people-mover.
Touted as a compact MPV with the manoeuvrability of an SUV, the Mitsubishi AR concept promises seating for up to six and high fuel efficiency resulting from an extensive weight reduction program; however, Mitsubishi is yet to release consumption or weight figures.
An abbreviation of ‘Active Runabout’, the AR concept is 4350mm long, 1780mm wide and 1690mm high – 175mm shorter, 25mm narrower and 80mm taller than the Kia Rondo.
Powering its front wheels with the same 100kW turbocharged 1.1-litre three-cylinder petrol engine used by the Mitsubishi XR-PHEV subcompact SUV concept, the compact MPV is a Belt Start Generator-type mild hybrid.
Incorporating a 10kW (48-volt) BSG, a 0.25kWh rear-mounted lithium-ion battery, an air-cooled DC-DC converter, and a continuously variable transmission, the Mitsubishi AR also uses regenerative braking and engine stop-start technology to boost torque and fuel economy.
The exterior presents a tall stance, slender front grille and headlights, vertical LED daytime running lights, accentuated front and rear skid plates, and a deep character line running from the front door mid-point into the tail-lights. A smooth tailgate and a semi-panoramic glass roof, dubbed a ‘Crystal Lighted Roof’, also feature.
The cabin offers three flexible seating patterns: seating for six; seating for four with luggage space; or seating for four with the first- and second-row seats rotated to face each other.
A movable centre console allows all occupants to use the AR concept’s tablet-style connected car technology interface to plan trip routes, access the internet or check emails. Detachable cup holders are another ergonomic highlight.
Active safety comprises adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, collision mitigation, blind spot assist, and an unintentional vehicle move off control system that detects mistaken use of the accelerator and limits engine power to restrain the car.
The AR concept is part of a trio of hybrid-powered Mitsubishi concepts at the Tokyo show that also includes the Mitsubishi GC-PHEV SUV.
