All-Electric Mitsubishi ASX VR-e Coming to NZ in 2026
Mitsubishi's electric vehicle range is expanding, with the all-new Mitsubishi ASX VR-e confirmed for New Zealand.
The fully electric ASX VR-e is scheduled to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026, giving Rangiora and North Canterbury drivers a new battery electric vehicle (BEV) option from Mitsubishi.
It follows the recently announced Outlander Sport HEV as part of a new wave of Mitsubishi vehicles heading to New Zealand and joins the Outlander PHEV and Eclipse Cross PHEV in Mitsubishi’s growing electrified range.
Meet the New Mitsubishi ASX EV
While the ASX name will be familiar to many Mitsubishi drivers, the new ASX VR-e represents something quite different.
This is an all-electric vehicle, powered entirely by its battery and electric drivetrain rather than a petrol engine.
Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand has confirmed four models for the New Zealand ASX VR-e range: LS, XLS, Exceed and the range-topping high-performance GSR.
Full specifications haven’t been released yet, so we’ll have to wait a little longer for details such as battery capacity, driving range, charging speeds and performance figures.
A New Electric Mitsubishi for North Canterbury
The arrival of the ASX VR-e will give North Canterbury drivers another choice when considering the move to an electrified vehicle.
For drivers travelling around Rangiora and Kaiapoi, commuting into Christchurch or regularly heading further afield around North Canterbury, the ASX VR-e introduces a fully electric option to the Mitsubishi SUV range.
Unlike the Outlander PHEV and Eclipse Cross PHEV, the ASX VR-e doesn’t have a petrol engine. It’s a battery electric vehicle that is charged from an external electricity supply.
It also provides another step in Mitsubishi’s electrified line-up alongside the upcoming Outlander Sport HEV, which uses self-charging hybrid technology, and Mitsubishi’s established plug-in hybrid models.
Designed Through an International Partnership
The ASX VR-e has an interesting story behind its development.
Mitsubishi has worked with renowned Italian design house Pininfarina and electric vehicle manufacturer Foxtron to develop the new vehicle, with Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand also bringing its local expertise to the model.
It’s a combination that brings together specialist EV technology, international automotive design and Mitsubishi’s knowledge of the New Zealand market.
Backed by Mitsubishi in New Zealand
For anyone considering buying an EV, the vehicle itself is only part of the equation. Having access to servicing, technical knowledge and long-term support is also important.
Mitsubishi Motors has been operating in New Zealand for more than five decades and now has a nationwide network of more than 60 dealerships.
The ASX VR-e will become part of that established Mitsubishi network rather than arriving as a standalone EV brand without an existing New Zealand dealer and service infrastructure.
Here at Rangiora Mitsubishi, that means North Canterbury customers will have a local Mitsubishi dealership to turn to as this next generation of electric vehicles arrives.
Where Does the ASX VR-e Fit in Mitsubishi’s Electrified Range?
Mitsubishi’s electrified range is becoming increasingly diverse.
Rather than offering a single approach to electrification, the range is expanding to give New Zealand drivers several different options depending on how and where they drive.
The upcoming Outlander Sport HEV provides hybrid driving without needing to plug in. The Outlander PHEV and Eclipse Cross PHEV combine electric driving with the flexibility of a petrol engine, while the new ASX VR-e takes the next step as a fully battery electric vehicle.
That means North Canterbury drivers will have more choice when deciding which type of electrified Mitsubishi best suits their lifestyle.
When Will the Mitsubishi ASX VR-e Arrive in Rangiora?
Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand has confirmed the new ASX VR-e will arrive in New Zealand in Q4 2026.
Four variants – LS, XLS, Exceed and GSR – have been confirmed, but full New Zealand pricing and specifications will be announced closer to launch.
We’re looking forward to learning more about the ASX VR-e and welcoming Mitsubishi’s newest all-electric vehicle to Rangiora.
Keep an eye on Rangiora Mitsubishi for the latest ASX VR-e pricing, specifications and availability as we get closer to its New Zealand arrival.
