Next Mitsubishi Outlander and New ASX Previewed – What WA Buyers Need to Know

Mitsubishi has given North American dealers a first look at the next-generation Outlander and a completely redesigned small SUV that will eventually replace the current ASX. Both models are part of the brand's Momentum 2030 strategy, and while Australian timing hasn't been locked in, these are the two Mitsubishis most likely sitting in WA driveways right now.

Next-Gen Outlander: Big Redesign on a New Platform

The fifth-generation Outlander is scheduled for a US launch in the second half of 2028. It ditches the current CMF-CD platform shared with Renault and Nissan in favour of a new Mitsubishi-developed architecture — a significant shift that suggests this will be a more distinctly Mitsubishi product than the car it replaces.

The front end gets a dramatic overhaul: a closed-off grille and a stacked row of eight slimline LED lights give it a sharper, more aggressive face. The rear carries over the current model's 'fighter jet' design theme, inspired by an aircraft tailplane, so it won't be a complete visual departure from what WA buyers already know.

For those who use their Outlander beyond the school run or the Freeway, an off-road-focused variant was also previewed. It features increased ground clearance, unique body cladding, a revised front bumper, and a retuned all-wheel-drive system. It builds on the Outlander Trail Edition sold in the US from 2025 — a model that never made it to Australia — and comes with Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. Given how many WA families head bush on long weekends, that kind of capability at a mainstream price point has real appeal here.

The current Outlander has been on sale in Australia since 2022 and competes directly with the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Australian timing for the next model hasn't been confirmed, so don't expect to see it at Osborne Park dealerships anytime soon.

The ASX Gets a Proper Replacement — Eventually

The story around the ASX is messier. The current car sold in Australia is actually a rebadged Renault Captur — a stopgap Mitsubishi Australia has openly acknowledged. The original ASX, which ran for over 15 years, was discontinued for Australia last year.

What dealers in the US were shown is a completely new vehicle, described by one dealer as being "built from the ground up." In the US it carries the Outlander Sport nameplate. It's noticeably larger than the old ASX, with slim LED headlights, a muscular grille, and heavy off-road styling — including a bullbar, exposed recovery hooks, a roof rack, and a ladder to the roof.

Whether this new model comes to Australia is genuinely unclear. Mitsubishi Australia has previously described the Renault-based ASX as a temporary measure before a "true replacement" arrives, which suggests this new platform-built model is what they're waiting for. But no announcement has been made, and the brand is also navigating what to do with the Renault Symbioz-based replacement for the Captur in markets like Europe.

Separately, the Mitsubishi Xforce — a small SUV sold in Southeast Asia with hybrid power — has been ruled out for Australia because it won't comply with Australian Design Rules.

What This Means If You're Shopping Now

If you're considering an Outlander today, the current model is solid but a full replacement is coming within a few years. That's not a reason to hold off indefinitely, but it's worth factoring into your decision alongside running costs and WA registration.

On the ASX side, the Renault Captur-based version remains the only option for now. If you're hoping for something genuinely new, it could be a while yet.