Could America Get a Mitsubishi Truck?
It’s been some time since Mitsubishi sold a truck in the United States. But, that does not mean the brand has abandoned the pickup segment altogether. On the global market, Mitsubishi does still sell an affordable truck, and frankly, it would be nice if the Japanese auto brand changed that. The small truck market has been heating up over the years, and a Mitsubishi truck could enter the fray.
Does Mitsubishi sell a truck?
In the past, Mitsubishi had a truck known as the Raider. It was essentially just a rebadged version of the Dodge Dakota. In 2008, less than 3,000 Raider units were sold. In comparison, Toyota sold well over 100,000 Tacoma trucks in the same year.
According to an interview with WardsAuto, Mark Chaffin, the COO of Mitsubishi America stated that the manufacturer would like to have a truck in the States. But he also said, “we’d have to have one that’s the right fit for Mitsubishi.”
Right now, Mitsubishi is known for selling cheap cars like the Mirage. Perhaps a new Mitsubishi truck could also be affordably priced to compete with something like the Ford Maverick. Small trucks are becoming more and more popular here in America. Proving you don’t have to sell a full-size truck in order to get the buying public interested.
Will Mitsubishi sell a truck in the United States?
On the global market, Mitsubishi sells a truck known as the L200. In its current form, this pickup will not find its way stateside. But, the auto manufacturer is apparently working on a new platform for its truck, and that version has the potential to come to America.
It will likely be some time before or if we see a Mitsubishi truck sold in the United States. But it’s easy to imagine that Mitsubishi dealerships would appreciate one greatly. A truck from this brand might not win with traditional pickup buyers. But, if the Maverick is any indication, a well-designed truck can attract buyers who have not owned a truck before.
As automotive regulations are stricken in the States, Mitsubishi would have to work to keep up with them. Since 2009, the brand has not sold a truck in the U.S., and a lot has changed since then. But if this Japanese car company decides a truck is viable, hopefully, it decides to offer one.
Who owns Mitsubishi?
In 2016, Mitsubishi teamed up with Renault and Nissan. The company is now known as the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. It is worth noting that Nissan is the majority owner, and has a 34% stake in Mitsubishi Motors. So, as Mitsubishi develops a new truck platform, Nissan has the potential to benefit.
With resources from Nissan, perhaps bringing a truck to the United States will be an easier task for Mitsubishi. But, until the brand confirms its intentions, nothing is set in stone. Still, the more pickup trucks on the market, the better. Especially if a truck from Mitsubishi is affordable and practical.
