Mitsubishi ASX VR-e NZ: four EV grades from $57,990

Mitsubishi’s all-electric ASX VR-e is due in New Zealand dealerships in December 2026, with four grades starting at $57,990 plus on-road costs. MMNZ’s 24 September announcement sets out an unusually clear trade-off: the least expensive rear-wheel-drive model also has the longest quoted WLTP range.

The ASX VR-e is a different vehicle from the older petrol ASX and the incoming Outlander Sport full hybrid. Keep the complete model name on a quote. A familiar badge alone does not identify the powertrain, body, battery, or ownership requirements.

More equipment changes the range calculation

All four versions use a 57.7kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. MMNZ lists the following prices and WLTP ranges:

LS to GSR is a $15,000 increase and a 75km reduction in quoted laboratory range. Those figures do not decide which grade is best, but they prevent a mistaken assumption that the most expensive version necessarily travels furthest on a charge.

Use the same route and charging assumptions for every grade. Cold weather, speed, passengers, road gradients, and battery conditions can alter the real result. Leave a range buffer rather than scheduling a trip exactly to the published maximum.

GSR adds performance rather than battery capacity

The rear-wheel-drive variants are listed at 171kW and 350Nm. GSR adds a second motor and all-wheel drive for maximum output of 342kW and 700Nm. The shared battery capacity makes the choice primarily about drivetrain, performance, equipment, and the range trade-off.

MMNZ lists DC charging up to 134kW and a 10–80% charge in approximately 30 minutes under suitable conditions. Vehicle-to-load capability supplies up to 3.6kW through an accessory adapter. Confirm that adapter’s inclusion, the charging cable, the home installation, and the electricity supply before assigning a value to those features.

A peak charging rate describes a maximum, rather than a constant rate for an entire session. A household comparing electric SUVs should also check how the normal weekly travel will be charged. Home, workplace, and public charging arrangements can create quite different ownership routines.

Test the compact body with the full family load

The ASX VR-e is 4,315mm long with a 2,800mm wheelbase. Its dedicated EV packaging is relevant to rear-seat space, but a dimension does not establish whether a particular child restraint, mobility aid, or luggage set fits.

From XLS upward, the announcement adds features including heated and ventilated front seats and a multi-camera system. Exceed and GSR bring further equipment, including 20-inch wheels, a panoramic glass roof, and a hands-free tailgate. Compare those additions with the way the car will actually be used and the change in listed range.

MMNZ states a five-year/130,000km vehicle warranty, a ten-year/160,000km powertrain warranty, and an eight-year/160,000km drive-battery warranty, subject to the programme’s terms. Ask for those terms and the local service schedule with the order.

For a December purchase, obtain a grade-specific written quote and a real allocation date. Choose the drivetrain and equipment after checking the route, charging plan, passenger access, and loaded boot, rather than using the highest badge as a shortcut.

Sources

• ASX VR-e New Zealand range announcement — MMNZ, 24 September 2026.