Mitsubishi Turns Over a New LEAF!
During the height of the pandemic in 2020 Mitsubishi Motors announced that it was withdrawing from the U.K. market and wound down its business through to late 2021, leaving behind aftersales, service and parts. It was a sad loss from a company that brought some truly amazing and talented cars over the decades, from the Porsche rivalling Starrion, to the trusty L200 pickup, and the silky-smooth Galant, whilst not forgetting the formidable rally championship winning Lancer EVO.
In latter years, it was the Outlander PHEV that sold so well at a time when the market really had no plug-in SUVs. And in that respect, it was so far ahead of its time.
However, with the Outlander PHEV back, alongside the very capable L200, Mitsubishi is bringing another coveted nameplate with the all-new all-electric Eclipse. However, this is an electric crossover rather than the turbocharged 90s coupe.
The 2027 Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback EV is essentially a rebadged next-generation Nissan Leaf, arriving via the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. For UK buyers hunting for an affordable family EV with decent range, this could be an intriguing alternative to the Leaf – especially if Mitsubishi’s usually stronger and longer warranty sweetens the deal. Some might say this looks better than Leaf-especially the rear profile. This author certainly does. The front I’m not so sure about.
While the Eclipse Sportback is confirmed for North American launch in late summer/early fall 2026 as a 2027 model, UK and European availability details are still emerging. Good news for British buyers: the new Leaf is in production at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, supporting UK manufacturing and jobs (Nissan is now getting on with churning out some electric cars including the new Micra).
Mitsubishi has already launched the all-new Eclipse Cross EV in Europe which is a rebadged and restyled Renault Scenic E-Tech (see below).
The Eclipse Sportback (not to be confused with the completely different Eclipse Cross) and the new Nissan Leaf share the CMF-EV / AmpR Medium platform – the same joint Alliance architecture used by Renault’s Mégane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech. This isn’t a Nissan-only design; it’s collaborative engineering with common batteries, motors, chassis, and electrical systems.
New Leaf / Eclipse Sportback highlights (vs Renault stablemates):
Battery & Range: ~75 kWh, targeting up to ~303 miles EPA (~380+ miles WLTP on efficient trims). Strong real-world efficiency.
Performance: ~214 hp FWD, solid 7–7.6 sec 0-60 mph.
Charging: NACS compatibility and ~150 kW DC.
Positioning: Sleeker Sportback/crossover styling with good family practicality.
The Leaf stands out with Nissan’s proven EV heritage, refined one-pedal driving, competitive value, and crossover appeal.
Mitsubishi adds its signature flavour to the Eclipse Sportback: a bolder Triple Diamond grille, unique bumpers, lighting signatures, and eye-catching triangular wheels. It’s badge engineering done transparently, but enough to make it feel fresh on UK roads.
UK Pricing Outlook: Expect it to sit close to the new Nissan Leaf (from around £32,249 after the £3,750 Electric Car Grant for eligible models). A modest premium for Mitsubishi styling and branding is likely.
Why the Rebadge? Smart Alliance Strategy + Warranty Edge
Just as Renault leverages the same platform for its distinct Mégane and Scenic models, Mitsubishi uses proven Alliance tech to deliver a competitive EV quickly and cost-effectively. Benefits for buyers include broader dealer choice, fresh styling, and – crucially – Mitsubishi’s stronger warranty (often 8 years/100,000 miles on battery and vehicle in UK precedents).
The Good:
Affordable, proven EV with strong real-world range and efficiency.
Mitsubishi reliability reputation + longer warranty = peace of mind.
Sleeker Sportback design blends crossover practicality with flair.
Alliance tech brings solid efficiency, NACS charging, and Nissan EV know-how. Local Sunderland production for the Leaf is a big UK plus.
The Reality Check:
Transparent rebadge – great for value, less so for purists and what would the Fast & Furious crew think? Can you picture this modified with aero and big wheels /slammed on 21’s? Somehow I doubt it is something we’ll see.
Interior and tech will closely mirror the Leaf (competent but not always class-leading vs Renault).
Exact UK trims, grant eligibility, and RHD details pending.
What’s Next for Mitsubishi?
Reports point to a new electric Mitsubishi Colt around 2027, likely based on the Renault 5 E-Tech platform (shared with the new Nissan Micra EV).
Verdict.
It’s somewhat sad that Mitsubishi (and other Japanese manufacturers) are now just a badge, churning out slightly different ‘frocks’.
The new Leaf holds its own with efficiency, heritage, value, and UK-built appeal.
Would the longer Mitsubishi warranty, and perhaps its slightly different looks tip you toward the Eclipse? Share your thoughts below! ⚡
Author
Newt is a lifelong car enthusiast and specialist in electric cars.
You can find Newt on𝕏 at @eV_Newt
