No Mirage, No Problem? Mitsubishi Gambles On 2026 Electric Crossover

Mitsubishi is finally reentering the U.S. electric game. After discontinuing the i-MiEV in 2017, Mitsubishi plans to introduce a new electric vehicle in 2026. While company officials didn’t confirm specifics, insiders say it’ll likely be a small, coupe-like crossover inspired by Nissan’s Chill-Out concept.

Built in Japan, it promises to be far more practical and appealing than the i-MiEV ever was, which struggled with a 62-mile range and sluggish 13-second 0-60 mph time.

There’s a big question looming for Mitsubishi dealers—what happens now that the Mirage is gone? The subcompact was a surprise workhorse, accounting for nearly 30 percent of the brand’s sales last year. When buyers found out it was being axed in December 2024, they rushed to snag the last remaining units. Currently, there is sufficient stock to last until the summer of 2025, but what happens after that? Things will get quieter.

Mitsubishi is scrambling for solutions. One idea is to lower the price of the Outlander Sport by offering a stripped-down trim. However, with its current $23,695 starting price, it’s hard to imagine it ever replacing the Mirage’s budget-friendly $16,695 price tag. Dealers will have to hold out until the new EV hits showrooms. Until then, it’s going to be a tough sell.