Evolution and Enhancements of Mitsubishi RVR from 1991 to 2021

The Mitsubishi RVR is a car manufactured by Mitsubishi from 1991 to the present. It was initially a compact MPV from 1991 to 2002 and later as a subcompact crossover SUV from 2010 to the present, with the first two generations being compact MPVs. Now let's take a brief look at the Mitsubishi RVR's evolution to gain some insight. 

First Generation 1991 – 1996

The first generation RVR (N10/N20) was unveiled in 1991 till 1996. The N10/N20 RVR features a tall wagon body with low step-in and step-out height, spacious interior with five seats, and can be reconfigured for improved accessibility. The vehicle comes with standard features like AM/FM stereo, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, power windows, and features like four-wheel independent suspension, 14-inch alloy wheels, and stainless steel exhaust pipe.

The RVR is equipped with a 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4 petrol engine, generating 113hp, and can be paired with a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual with a 4WD drivetrain. Later models offered a 2.4-liter 16-valve inline-4 with 136hp, either with a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Second Generation 1997 – 2002

In 1997, Mitsubishi released the second generation of the RVR (N60/N70) with several upgrades. The vehicle's exterior features include bumper extensions, xenon headlights, power mirrors, body-colored door handles, a redesigned front grille, tilt & slide sunroof, roof rails, privacy glass, and 15-inch alloy wheels. The N60/N70 RVR's interior offers improved external dimensions, comfortable seats, and ample head, shoulder, and legroom for all occupants, with ample luggage space at the rear.

The N60/N70 RVR boasts a full-functioning stereo radio, automatic air conditioning, a woodgrain center panel, Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System, Automatic Climate Control, multi-mode keyless entry, and front-seat armrest. The N60/N70 RVR has a 1.8-liter DOHC inline-4 petrol engine, with optional 2.0-liter or 2.4-liter engines. Power is transferred via 4-speed automatic, INVECS semi-auto, and 5-speed manual transmission.

Third Generation 2010 – Present

The third-generation Mitsubishi RVR also known as Mitsubishi ASX or Outlander Sports is a subcompact crossover SUV produced since 2010. The 2010 GA RVR, featuring a trapezoidal grille and angular headlights, was a short SUV that won the Paris-Dakar rally and World Rally Championship. The car's interior blends car-like and off-road features, featuring a neat dashboard, radio, temperature control dials, and instrument cluster. It has five comfortable seats, a small transmission tunnel, and a large cargo area. The RVR comes with six petrol and three turbocharged diesel engines, with the base engine being a 1.8-liter (4B10) inline-4 petrol engine, and can be mated with various transmissions.

2012 – 2016

In 2012, Mitsubishi introduced a refreshed RVR for the small crossover market, featuring a new bumper, sportier fog lights, a broader apron, A-shaped grille with 3D mesh and xenon headlights, and standard 18" alloy wheels. The interior features a Lancer-Evo-inspired steering wheel with aluminum accents, paddle shifters in some automatic transmission models, optional infotainment system, and the same engines as 2010. 

2016 -2019

The Mitsubishi's 2016 RVR facelift featured a new front fascia with a mesh black grille, chrome trim, a different bumper, and side scoops with fog lights. The interior features a touchscreen infotainment system, satin-silver trim, diamond-stitched seats, and a 60/40 split-fold rear seat, with the same engines used under the hood.

2019 – Present

The 2019 Mitsubishi RVR model features a stronger, lightweight body, restyled front fascia with headlights, a prominent grille, LED daytime running lights, and signature LED taillights for a refreshed look. The 2019 and 2020 models feature a touchscreen infotainment system, comfortable seats with cloth or leather upholstery, and the same engines with minor tweaks.

Finally

The Mitsubishi RVR, initially an MPV, has since evolved into a subcompact crossover SUV, showcasing its safety, reliability, and efficiency, a trait common in Mitsubishi brands. You can now visit the Mitsubishi RVR stocklist to view our inventory of used Mitsubishi RVRs for sale.