Mitsubishi will finally launch its first EV in the US in 2026 and it may twin with the Nissan LEAF

Mitsubishi confirmed plans to finally launch its first EV in the US in 2026. The new electric car is expected to look similar to Nissan’s next-generation LEAF, which will debut later this year.

Mitsubishi plans to launch its first EV in the US in 2026

After notching its highest sales in the US since 2019 last year, Mitsubishi intends to keep the momentum going with a revamped lineup, including its first electric vehicle.

Mitsubishi told US dealers during a meeting earlier this week (via Automotive News) that the brand’s first EV will arrive in the US in 2026 alongside a new Outlander model.

According to sources, it will be a small electric crossover, similar to what the next-gen Nissan LEAF is expected to look like. Nissan is updating the iconic hatch with a new style closer to the Ariya, its electric SUV.

The new LEAF will use the same CMF-EV platform that underpins the Nissan Ariya. Nissan said its Chill-out concept from 2021 previewed the next-gen LEAF model. It will be more of a crossover coupe rather than the hatchback we are used to seeing.

Nissan is expected to unveil the new model later this year. Earlier this month, the new LEAF was spotted testing in the US, giving us our best look at the new EV so far.

Although RC Hill, chairman of the Mitsubishi National Advisory Board, said US dealers would “embrace” the brand’s first EV, it’s not expected to replace the Mirage. “It’s probably a solution to the OEM problem, but not a solution to move volume,” he explained.

The Mirage was the brand’s second-best-selling model in the US last year, behind the Outlander, but Mitsubishi ended production in December. To make up for it, Mitsubishi may cut Outlander Sport prices and introduce a new lower-priced trim ahead of its first EV arriving.

Although Mitsubishi was initially included in Nissan and Honda’s EV merger plans, the automaker is reportedly considering backing out.

With a wave of new electric crossovers and SUVs arriving in the US from Hyundai, GM, Volvo, Rivian, and several others, will Mitsubishi be able to stand out? Would you buy a Mitsubishi EV? Let us know in the comments below.