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10 Mitsubishi Vehicles That Were Killed Off Too Soon

Cameron Eittreim October 25, 2025

Mitsubishi Motors has long been recognized for its innovative spirit and diverse lineup of vehicles that have left a lasting impression on automotive enthusiasts. From the rugged Pajero to the sporty Lancer Evolution, the brand has produced models that have garnered dedicated followings. However, several of these promising vehicles were discontinued prematurely, leaving fans to reminisce about what could have been. This article delves into ten Mitsubishi models that were cut short, exploring their unique qualities and the impact they had on the automotive world.

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1. Mitsubishi Eclipse

1280px 1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse Gs Dohc 13369973975 — Photo Credit: Creative Commons

The Mitsubishi Eclipse was a sporty compact car that gained prominence in the 1990s, becoming an icon in car culture and a favorite among tuning enthusiasts. (en.wikipedia.org) Produced over four generations from 1990 to 2012, the Eclipse was celebrated for its performance and affordability. (motortrend.com) Despite its popularity, Mitsubishi discontinued the model in 2012, leaving many to lament the loss of this beloved vehicle. (motortrend.com)

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2. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

2001 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Tommi Makinen Edition Main — A Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution rally car powers through a dirt track, showcasing its agility and speed. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution was a rally-inspired sedan that seamlessly blended turbocharged power with all-wheel-drive handling, earning it a dedicated following among performance enthusiasts. (motortrend.com) Despite its acclaim and cult status, Mitsubishi discontinued the model in 2015, leaving a notable gap in the performance car market. (autos.yahoo.com)

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3. Mitsubishi 3000GT (GTO)

1997 mitsubishi 3000gt sl rear 3 4 1024x683 — Photo Credit: Mecum

The Mitsubishi 3000GT, known as the GTO in Japan, was a technologically advanced sports car that offered features like all-wheel drive and active aerodynamics. (en.wikipedia.org) Despite its innovative design, production ended in 2001 due to declining sales and shifting market demands. (motortrend.com)

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4. Mitsubishi Galant VR-4

1992 mitsubishi galant 4 dr vr 4 turbo awd sedan pic 4685047508282338875 — Photo Credit: Creative Commons

The Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 was a turbocharged sedan that served as the forerunner to the Lancer Evolution. (en.wikipedia.org) Praised for its rally heritage and all-wheel drive, it was phased out in the mid-1990s. (tbsnews.net)

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5. Mitsubishi Starion

The Mitsubishi Starion was a rear-wheel-drive turbocharged coupe renowned for its agility and distinctive styling. (en.wikipedia.org) Produced from 1982 to 1989, it was marketed in North America as the Dodge and Plymouth Conquest. (motortrend.com) Despite its performance and appeal, the Starion was discontinued in 1989, leaving a legacy that influenced later Japanese sports cars. (motortrend.com)

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6. Mitsubishi Montero (Pajero)

The Mitsubishi Montero, known as the Pajero in many markets, was a legendary SUV celebrated for its off-road prowess and multiple Dakar Rally victories. (en.wikipedia.org) Despite its global fanbase, Mitsubishi discontinued the Montero in North America after the 2006 model year due to declining sales. (slashgear.com) Production continued in other regions until 2021, when Mitsubishi ended its production worldwide. (motor1.com)

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7. Mitsubishi Diamante

2002 mitsubishi diamante 4 dr ls sedan pic 2969881237598945658 — Photo Credit: Creative Commons

The Mitsubishi Diamante was a premium midsize sedan that offered luxury features and a smooth ride. (en.wikipedia.org) Produced from 1990 to 2005, it was known for its comfortable interior and advanced technology. (thetruthaboutcars.com) Despite its appeal, the Diamante was discontinued in the mid-2000s due to shifting market demands and declining sales. (goodcarbadcar.net)

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8. Mitsubishi Mirage Cyborg

1200px 1992 1993 mitsubishi mirage cyborg r hatchback 04 — A sleek 1988 Mitsubishi Mirage Cyborg hot hatch, showcasing its turbocharged 1.6L engine and sporty design. | Image from www.publicdomainpictures.net (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Mitsubishi Mirage Cyborg was a high-revving hot hatch that gained a cult following in Japan. (japanesenostalgiccar.com) Powered by a 1.6-liter MIVEC engine producing 175 horsepower, it offered impressive performance and agility. (ebay.com) Despite its popularity, the Mirage Cyborg was discontinued in the early 2000s, limiting Mitsubishi’s sporty compact options. (ebay.com)

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9. Mitsubishi Endeavor

The Mitsubishi Endeavor was a mid-size crossover SUV produced from 2003 to 2011. (en.wikipedia.org) Despite its comfortable ride and spacious interior, it faced stiff competition in the SUV market and struggled with low sales. (consumerreports.org) As a result, Mitsubishi discontinued the Endeavor in 2011. (motortrend.com)

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10. Mitsubishi i-MiEV

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV was one of the first mass-produced electric vehicles, introduced in 2009. (en.wikipedia.org) Despite its pioneering role, the i-MiEV faced challenges such as limited range and low sales, leading to its discontinuation in the U.S. market after the 2017 model year. (carscoops.com) Production continued in other regions until 2021, when Mitsubishi ended its production worldwide. (arstechnica.com)

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Remembering Mitsubishi’s Early Farewells

1991 mitsubishi 3000gt vr4 1544474053b81f539a9733abamg 1216 — Photo Credit: Bring a Trailer

Mitsubishi’s legacy is marked by bold innovation and a willingness to take risks, evident in models like the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle. (mitsubishi-motors.com) While some of these pioneering vehicles were discontinued due to market challenges, their influence persists. As the automotive industry evolves, Mitsubishi’s commitment to electrification and performance suggests potential comebacks, aligning with the brand’s enduring spirit of innovation. (mitsubishi-motors.com)

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