Mitsubishi Finally Exits the UK but Aftersales Service Continues • Professional Pickup

Mitsubishi has finally closed its doors in the UK, with the head office being vacated yesterday. Today, International Motors, the UK importers for Isuzu, formally took over the aftersales business, ensuring continued support for existing owners.

Mitsubishi announced its withdrawal from Europe, which had obvious impacts on the UK importers, the Colt Car Company. Despite a deal with partners Renault that saw the brand remain in mainland Europe, the British right-hand drive market wasn’t part of the plan. A final bid from SsangYong to take over the business failed, leaving the door closed to a rescue.

Rob Lindley, managing director at Colt Car Company, commented on LinkedIn: “Today was my last day working at Colt Car Company (Mitsubishi Motors UK). An emotional day for many reasons. So many great memories over the last few years.

“What has made the experience great for me above all else has been the people. What a fantastic and talented team.

“I could go on but in the end what I really want to say is Thank You!!”

Mitsubishi UK Heritage Fleet — Mitsubishi’s historic vehicles lined up outside the Cirencester HQ

Aftersales Support Continunes

International Motors has today completed the purchase of The Colt Car Company’s aftersales business, and now supports the service and maintenance requirements of the 350,000 or so Mitsubishi owners in Britain.

Mitsubishi drivers will see no difference in the standards of service they receive from Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, the name the new support service will trade under, and can continue to rely on their local Mitsubishi Service Centre for aftersales support.

Toby Marshall, Managing Director at Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, commented: “We are excited to be joining the IM Group which will allow us to continue offering aftersales services for all Mitsubishi customers in the UK. We’re looking to maintain the excellent standards of aftersales care, parts supply and vehicle warranty that our customers have experienced for many years to come.”

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Phil Huff

Phil Huff, a seasoned automotive journalist since 2011, specialises in new car and van launches for national and regional newspapers, magazines, and online platforms. As the editor of light commercial vehicle publications Professional Van and Professional Pickup, Phil delivers high-quality content for a UK audience of LCV owner-operators and small business users.