Mitsubishi Australia has made a significant shift in its model lineup, announcing the discontinuation of three key SUVs: the ASX, Eclipse Cross (both ICE and PHEV), and the Pajero Sport. This decision was driven by the impending implementation of updated Australian Design Rules (ADR) on March 1st, 2025, which these older models would struggle to meet.
According to Shaun Westcott, Mitsubishi Australia's President and CEO, the substantial investment required to re-engineer these vehicles to comply with the new regulations was deemed "not commercially feasible" given their age. This decision comes despite the strong sales performance of these models, collectively accounting for over a third of Mitsubishi's Australian sales in 2024. The ASX, in particular, experienced a remarkable 34% sales increase in 2024, reaching 12,330 units. The Eclipse Cross and Pajero Sport also enjoyed significant growth, with 9,221 and 7,306 units sold respectively.
The ASX, having been introduced in 2010, represents one of the oldest models currently available in the Australian market. Although it underwent three facelifts over the years, the underlying platform's age inevitably began to show compared to newer, more modern competitors.
Similarly, the Pajero Sport, launched in 2015, is nearing the end of its lifecycle despite receiving facelifts in 2019 and 2024. A new generation is anticipated in the coming years, likely built upon the latest Triton platform. The Eclipse Cross, which debuted in 2017 and received a refresh in 2020, is also approaching the end of its lifecycle.
While production of these SUVs for the Australian market has ceased, Mitsubishi Australia has assured customers that existing stock will remain available throughout the year, allowing for a smooth transition. The company has confirmed that the second-generation ASX, essentially a rebadged version of the recently-facelifted Renault Captur, will arrive in Australia later in 2025.
Regarding potential replacements for the Eclipse Cross and Pajero Sport, Mitsubishi has not yet provided specific details. However, the company's "Momentum 2030" plan outlines the introduction of several new or significantly updated vehicles in Australia by the end of the decade, encompassing a diverse range of powertrain options, including BEVs, PHEVs, hybrids, and ICE engines. One such addition will be the facelifted Outlander, arriving in 2025 with an enhanced PHEV system.
This strategic shift in Mitsubishi's Australian lineup reflects the evolving automotive landscape and the increasing importance of regulatory compliance and technological advancements. While the departure of the ASX, Eclipse Cross, and Pajero Sport may be met with some disappointment, the introduction of the new ASX and the promise of exciting new models in the coming years ensures that Mitsubishi will continue to offer a competitive and compelling range of vehicles to the Australian market.