Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 10 August 2026
Mitsubishi New Zealand has announced the all-electric ASX VR-e will be arriving in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Once it goes on sale, it will become the first pure electric vehicle offered by Mitsubishi locally in over a decade.
Despite its success with the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid, Mitsubishi New Zealand hasn’t introduced an BEV model since the i-MiEV was discontinued in 2014.
While this new ASX VR-e might be Mitsubishi’s first EV offering in a while, it seems to be part of something far bigger.
The ASX VR-e is based on the Foxtron Bria, which is a Taiwanese vehicle that has been on sale since 2022.
The overall design of the Bria was designed by Pininfarina, and Mitsubishi has added its own styling elements to make it the ASX VR-e.
According to Mitsubishi Australia, this ASX VR-e has undergone development work in Australia, with “significant” work done on the ride and handling. To the brand, all this means that it isn’t just a re-badged version of the Bria.
In New Zealand, the ASX VR-e will be offered in four trim levels; LS, XLS, Exceed, and the range-topping GSR.
According to Mitsubishi New Zealand’s release, the “VR” part of the name is derived from the much-loved Galant VR-4.
Though New Zealand specifications are yet to be revealed, we can assume they will be similar to what Foxtron sells the Bria with in Taiwan.
The entry-level rear-wheel model features a 57kWh battery, with a range of 517 (NEDC), and a 171kW output.
A dual-motor variant uses the same battery, but ups the power output to 299kW. Range of this model is 466km (NEDC).
MMNZ Chief Operating Officer Tony Johnston said the all-electric ASX VR-e reflects Mitsubishi’s long-standing commitment to helping New Zealand motorists transition from traditionally powered vehicles.
“Mitsubishi Motors introduced the first mass production electric vehicle to New Zealand in 2011 with iMiEV, before leading the growth of plug-in hybrid technology through the best-selling Outlander PHEV,” said Johnston.
“With the arrival of Outlander Sport HEV and ASX VR-e, we’re providing customers with more choices that align with their evolving lifestyles and development of local infrastructure.”
