Mitsubishi Reminds Us It’s Still Alive With Reheated Concept GC-PHEV in Chicago

If designers had their way without giving two cents about what their managers think or what reality commands, this is what the next Mitsubishi Montero or Pajero would look like.

However, in real life, the Concept GC-PHEV is a study that Mitsubishi says will loosely inspire the next Montero specifically, as well as their design DNA in general.

First seen at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, Mitsubishi’s Concept GC-PHEV made its North American debut at the Chicago Auto Show today without any visible changes retaining the same muscular form with futuristic details.

It has a plug-in hybrid drivetrain combining a 335hp supercharged MIVEC V6 engine, an electric motor, an 8-speed automatic transmission and Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) full-time all-wheel drive system.

Other tech highlights include the Tactical Table system that allows smartphone users to collect, exchange and share information with others, Pedestrian Collision Mitigating Auto-braking, Rearward Blind Spot Vehicle Warning and Unintentional Vehicle Move Off Control.

“We brought the Concept GC-PHEV to Chicago because it showcases into our future technology and design themes,” said Mitsubishi North America Executive Vice President, Don Swearingen.

“The Concept showcases aggressive styling and a level of refinement that will be coming to Mitsubishi vehicles. All of our 2016 model year vehicles will be refreshed with our new brand identity, starting with the 2016 Outlander, which will make its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in April. The Concept GC-PHEV continues to tell the story we started telling at the LA Auto Show, and we think you’re going to like what is to come.”