Mitsubishi Reveals ASX VR-e EV Designed by Pininfarina
Mitsubishi is preparing to expand its presence in the electric vehicle market with a new model called the ASX VR-e, an electric crossover designed by Italian design house Pininfarina. The vehicle is scheduled to launch in Australia during the fourth quarter of 2026.
The ASX VR-e features a distinctive front-end design with connected headlights and a curved grille, elements created by Pininfarina, the renowned Italian design company associated with numerous Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo models, as well as previous Mitsubishi projects.
However, the ASX VR-e is not an entirely new vehicle from an engineering standpoint. It is based on the Foxtron Model B, known in Taiwan as the Foxtron Bria, an electric vehicle developed by Foxconns automotive division. Foxconn is best known for its electronics manufacturing operations and its involvement in producing Apple products.
The original vehicle was unveiled around two years ago and officially went on sale in Taiwan in December 2025. The Bria combines Italian-inspired design with competitive pricing, starting at around $28,000, while also offering impressive performance figures.
Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive
The entry-level Bria is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 230 horsepower, paired with a 57.7-kWh LFP battery.
According to Foxconn, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds, while its driving range reaches 516 kilometers under the NEDC standard.
The higher-performance version uses two electric motors producing a combined 400 horsepower and features all-wheel drive. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.
This version uses the same 57.7-kWh battery, while its range is rated at approximately 466 kilometers under the NEDC standard.
The vehicle also supports fast charging at up to 134 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
Mitsubishi Adds Its Own Design Touches
Although the ASX VR-e is clearly based on the Bria, Mitsubishi says it will receive its own design modifications, including changes to the front and rear sections, interior and wheels.
Available images and information suggest that the two vehicles remain highly similar for now, while Mitsubishi has yet to reveal the full specifications of the ASX VR-e.
The company has also not disclosed the battery and drivetrain options that will be offered across the four planned variants.
Advanced Interior Equipment
If the Foxtron Brias specifications are an indication of what Mitsubishis ASX VR-e will offer, the vehicle could feature a comprehensive range of equipment, including a 15.6-inch infotainment display, wireless smartphone charging and advanced driver-assistance systems.
These systems are expected to include adaptive or conventional cruise-control functions and lane-keeping assistance.
Other expected features include a 360-degree surround-view camera and a power-operated tailgate.
The cabin has a practical layout focused on ease of use, with a large touchscreen and a wireless smartphone charger positioned in the center console area.
Taking on Chinese EVs in Australia
Mitsubishi has not yet announced plans to introduce the ASX VR-e in the United States. The company is preparing to revive the Pajero as an off-road-oriented SUV in global markets during the northern hemispheres fall of 2026, with reports suggesting that it could reach the U.S. market around 2030.
In Australia, the ASX VR-e is expected to arrive during the fourth quarter of 2026, entering the compact electric crossover segment and competing with models such as the MG4 and BYD Dolphin, both Chinese-made electric vehicles that have been gaining ground in the Australian market.
With the ASX VR-e, Mitsubishi is betting on a combination of Italian design and modern electric vehicle technology to strengthen its position in the EV market, while benefiting from the expertise of Foxconn and Pininfarina behind the vehicles underlying development.
