Freeborn group will open the doors to its first Mitsubishi dealership, this week.

The new franchise will run alongside the company’s already existing Citroen car and van dealership in Bar End Road, Winchester.

The newly-renovated showroom will create a number of jobs, with a new sales manager, vehicle technician and valeters among team members to be recruited.

Freeborn group sales manager Chris Healy said: “This is a very exciting time for everyone at Freeborn and we are keen to make real progress with Mitsubishi. The introduction of a number of new models recently has seen spectacular sales growth for Mitsubishi and with more models to come, particularly with the plug-in hybrid technology which has already pushed Mitsubishi into market sector leadership, we jumped at the chance to take on the franchise.

“Our dealership will cover a massive territory and our large fleet business will fit perfectly with vehicles like the L200 pick-up truck and commercial versions of the Outlander and Shogun, so this is a huge opportunity for us.”

Managing director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, Lance Bradley, said: “Having been operating for 35 years, Freeborn is well renowned in the south of England and we’re delighted to have it on board. It is joining Mitsubishi at an exciting time - 2014 has been a fantastic year as we celebrated 40 years’ presence in the UK market and we are confident next year will be an even bigger success.”

Freeborn employs 150 people across the group, with dealerships in Southampton, Winchester, Guildford, and Wokingham. The Mitsubishi franchise marks the start of Freeborn’s 35th year in business and the company prides itself on providing the best service from experienced, motivated salespeople, technicians, and administrative staff with a comprehensive knowledge of their vehicles.