What is Ralliart?

What is Ralliart?

If you've ever seen a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo with a Ralliart badge and wondered what that meant, you're not alone. Ralliart is Mitsubishi Motors' in-house performance and motorsport division, known for injecting adrenaline into the brand's lineup and leaving a serious mark in the world of rally racing. And in exciting news for fans, Mitsubishi has recently revived the Ralliart name after years of dormancy-giving car lovers a reason to celebrate.

Originally established in the 1980s, Ralliart began as Mitsubishi's answer to performance tuning and motorsport engineering. Think of it as Mitsubishi's version of AMG (Mercedes) or STI (Subaru). Ralliart was responsible for developing high-performance variants of Mitsubishi vehicles, enhancing everything from suspension and drivetrain to aerodynamics.

More than just badge appeal, Ralliart cars were built to perform-on and off of the road.

Ralliart Models

Ralliart-badged cars were tuned versions of Mitsubishi's standard models, blending daily drivability with racing-inspired upgrades. They typically slotted between base models and full-blown Evos. Below are some other standout Ralliart models:

  • Lancer Ralliart (2008-2014): Equipped with a detuned version of the Lancer Evolution X's turbocharged engine, the Lancer Ralliart offered 237 hp and an advanced all-wheel-drive system-bridging the gap between commuter and competitor.
  • Galant VR-4 (1987-2002): While not always badged "Ralliart," it laid the groundwork, boasting AWD and turbo power before it was cool.
  • Pajero Ralliart Editions (various years): Designed for serious off-road capability with added style and handling upgrades.

Although production of Ralliart vehicles tapered off in the mid-2010s, Mitsubishi announced in 2021 that Ralliart was making a comeback. In 2023, special edition models like the Outlander Ralliart and Triton Ralliart launched in select markets, with aggressive styling, performance tweaks, and a clear nod to the brand's rallying roots.

Ralliart Rally Cars

Ralliart's greatest claim to fame isn't just sporty street cars-it's their legendary success in rally racing. Mitsubishi's Ralliart-tuned rally cars dominated the Wolrd Rally Championship (WRC) and Dakar Rally for years.

  • Lancer Evolution Series (1993-2005): With Ralliart's engineering behind them, the Lancer Evos earned four WRC Drivers' Championships from 1996 to 1999 with Tommi Mäkinen at the wheel. Their AWD grip, turbocharged punch, and razor-sharp handling made them icons.
  • Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution (Dakar Rally): Ralliart's rugged rally SUV won the grueling Dakar Rally 12 times-more than any other manufacturer in that event's history.

These victories cemented Ralliart's reputation as a force in motorsports and helped bring rally tech into consumer cars.

While the new generation of Ralliart vehicles isn't quite as hardcore (yet), Mitsubishi's renewed focus on the performance brand signals a promising future. Fans are hopeful for more than just special trim packages-perhaps even a return to full-fledged Ralliart-tuned performance models.

In short, Ralliart isn't just a badge-it's a legacy of speed, strength, and motorsport success. And now that it's back, it's worth keeping an eye on what Mitsubishi's performance arm has in store.

Current RALLIART Vehicles

    

2024 Outlander

Set hearts ablaze every time you cruise the streets in iconic, fearless style. In the Outlander RALLIART, you'll enjoy exclusive rally-inspired touches that capture the spirit of our racing heritage as you revel in all the luxury of our flagship SUV. Comes with a luxurious White Diamond finish with black roof, panoramic sunroof, exclusive accessories, and standard Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC).

2024 Eclipse Cross

Blending style and substance, the Eclipse Cross RALLIART is an exalted expression of Kodawari, or the "pursuit of perfection." Paired with the distinctive SUV styling of the extraordinary Eclipse Cross, you'll have the confidence to go all the way - and beyond. Comes with standard S-AWC.

 

2023 Outlander Sport

Off-road adventures await, and what better way to take them on than in authentic motorsport styling? The Outlander Sport RALLIART is more than a match for your "let's do it" attitude as you seek out new experiences in the fearless Outlander Sport. Comes with standard All-Wheel Control (AWC).

2024 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid

Experience all the energy of our rally origins in electrifying fashion. The racing flair of the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid RALLIART evokes all the excitement of the toughest rally courses in the world, even as you enjoy the pure refinement of our premium hybrid SUV. Comes with a luxurious White Diamond finish with black roof, panoramic sunroof, exclusive accessories, and standard S-AWC.

 

2024 Mirage

Street-savvy looks get a striking upgrade with the Mirage RALLIART. Eye-catching graphics and stylish accessories like distinctive mud flaps and floor mats give your ride a race car look and feel that will summon the road-ready warrior within. Comes with a two-tone black roof.