Logo with three triangles - one of the most recognizable, but at the same time mysterious symbols in the automotive world. Many drivers encounter it on the roads, but not everyone knows which brand is hidden behind this emblem. Spoiler: we are talking about not one, but several brands with different histories and philosophies. In this article we will look at which cars wear this sign, how it appeared and why manufacturers chose this particular geometric figure.
The mystery is complicated by the fact that three triangles may look different: sometimes they merge into a star-shaped figure, sometimes they are located separately, and in some cases they form a letter. This is not an accident - each brand has put its own meaning into the symbol. For example, for one brand it is a reference to mountain peaks, and for another it is a reference to technical progress. Next, you will learn how to distinguish the original logo from a fake, which models are produced under this logo today, and why these cars are often the target of fraud in the secondary market.
By the way, if you have ever seen a car with such a logo and thought about buying it, this article will help you avoid common mistakes. For example, did you know that some three triangle models have unique all-wheel drive system, which is often confused with similar solutions from Audi or Subaru? Or what can the emblem on the radiator grill tell about the year of manufacture of the car?
What car brands use a logo with three triangles?
Today there is two main brands, officially using the three triangle emblem:
- 🔹 Mitsubishi Motors - a Japanese manufacturer whose triangles form a diamond shape. This is the most famous version of the logo.
- 🔹 Alpine (division Renault) is a French brand where triangles are stylized to resemble the letter "A" and mountain peaks.
However, there is a third category - unofficial or outdated logos, which can be found on rare models or clones. For example, in the 1980s, some Chinese manufacturers copied the design Mitsubishi, but today such cars are almost never seen.
The most common option is, of course, Mitsubishi. Their logo consists of three red diamonds (which are geometrically triangles with bases folded together) symbolizing reliability, honesty and success. Interestingly, in Japan the logo is read as "Mitsubishi", which literally translates as "three diamonds".
U Alpine the story is different: their logo refers to mountain peaks (the company is named after the Alps) and the letter "A". The triangles here are sharp-angled and directed upward, which emphasizes the sporty nature of the brand. These cars often participate in races, such as the World Rally Championship.
⚠️ Attention: Fake emblems are often found on the secondary market Mitsubishi on Chinese cars. The original logo has sharp edges and a deep red color (#E50000), while fakes may have an orange or pink tint.
History of the Mitsubishi logo: from ships to rockets
Logo with three diamonds appeared long before the first cars Mitsubishi. His story begins in 1870when the founder of the company Yataro Iwasaki chose this symbol for his shipping business. The triangles represented the three principles of the company:
- 🌊 Reliability (like ship waves)
- 🤝 Honesty (in relationships with partners)
- 💎 Quality (like a gem)
Interestingly, the logo was originally black and white, and the red color appeared only in 1914when the company began producing the first cars. Today this shade is officially called Mitsubishi Red and is protected by copyright.
B 1970s the logo has undergone changes: the rhombuses have become more geometrically accurate, and in 2000s added 3D effect. The last modification was in 2021, when the company simplified its design for digital media. Now the emblem looks flat, but remains recognizable.
By the way, Mitsubishi - it's not just cars. Airplanes, rockets and even household appliances are produced under this brand. For example, a logo with three diamonds can be seen on communications satellites and air conditioners.
Alpine: mountain peaks and racing DNA
French stamp Alpine uses three triangles, folded into the letter "A" and stylized as Alpine peaks. This logo appeared in 1955when the founder of the company Jean Redele decided to create sports cars based on Renault.
Interesting fact: the first name of the brand was Société des Automobiles Alpine, but soon it was reduced to just Alpine. The logo was designed by Redele himself, inspired by the view of the Alps from his office window. Today the emblem is colored blue color (symbol of France) with white triangles.
Main models Alpine:
- 🏁 Alpine A110 is a legendary sports car from the 1960s that won the Monte Carlo Rally.
- 🚗 Alpine A110 (2017) — a modern reincarnation of a classic with a turbo engine from Renault.
- 🏎️ Alpine A521 is a Formula 1 car that has been participating in the championship since 2021.
Unlike Mitsubishi, Alpine is a niche brand with a focus on sports performance. Their cars are rarely seen on public roads, but enjoy cult status among collectors.
⚠️ Attention: If you see Alpine with a logo where the triangles point down, this is a fake. The original emblem always has the vertices pointing upward.
How to distinguish an original logo from a fake?
Due to the popularity of three-triangle logos, scammers often fake emblems for Chinese replicas or “re-taped” cars. Here key features of the original:
For Mitsubishi:
- 🔴Color: exact shade of red - #E50000 (RGB: 229, 0, 0). Fake ones are often orange or burgundy.
- 📏 Geometry: rhombuses must be perfectly symmetrical, without distortion.
- 🔍 Material: on original cars, the emblem is metal, not plastic.
For Alpine:
- 🔵 Color: blue background - #002395 (dark blue), triangles - white.
- 🏔️ Shape: the tops of the triangles are sharp, without rounding.
- 📜 Inscription: under the logo there should be the word "ALPINE" in font Futura Bold.
If you doubt the authenticity of the emblem, check the car's VIN through official services:
https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/ru/vin-check/
https://www.alpinerenault.com/vin-decoder
Make sure the color matches the official shade|
Check the symmetry and clarity of the lines|
Inspect the emblem material (metal vs plastic)|
Check the VIN code with the manufacturer's database -->
What are the most popular Mitsubishi models with three triangles?
For its history Mitsubishi released dozens of models with the famous logo. We have selected TOP-5 most recognizable cars that can still be found on the roads:
| Model | Years of production | Features | Average price on the secondary market (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mitsubishi Lancer | 1973–present | Cult sedan, especially the version Evolution with turbo engine | from 300,000 to 1,500,000 RUR |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | 2001–present | Popular crossover with the system Super All-Wheel Control | from 800,000 to 2,500,000 RUR |
| Mitsubishi Pajero | 1982–2021 | Legendary SUV, Dakar Rally winner | from 1,200,000 to 3,000,000 RUR |
| Mitsubishi ASX | 2010–present | Compact crossover, analog Renault Captur first generation | from 600,000 to 1,800,000 RUR |
| Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross | 2017–present | Futuristic crossover with split rear window | from 1,500,000 to 2,800,000 RUR |
Deserves special attention Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (or just Evo). These cars were created for rallying and have unique all-wheel drive system S-AWC, which is often confused with Quattro from Audi. However, Evo The distribution of torque occurs differently, which makes the car more “tailored” for sporty driving.
If you are buying used Mitsubishi Evo, be sure to check your racing history. Many examples have a “sporting past”, which affects the life of the engine and suspension.
Why are cars with three triangles often counterfeited?
Logo Mitsubishi - one of the most copied in the world. Here are the main reasons:
- Brand popularity: Mitsubishi is well known in Asia, Europe and America, which makes it a target for scammers.
- Simplicity of the logo: Three triangles are easy to reproduce, unlike complex emblems like Mercedes or BMW.
- Demand for spare parts: many details from Mitsubishi compatible with other Japanese brands, which creates a market for counterfeit products.
- Cult status of some models: for example, Lancer Evolution or Pajero often counterfeited for sale on the secondary market.
The most common fakes:
- 🚘 Chinese replicas Mitsubishi under brands Dongfeng or FAW.
- 🔧 Counterfeit spare parts (especially filters, timing belts and brake pads).
- 🎨 Body stickers imitating a logo (often found on Toyota or Nissan).
How to avoid becoming a victim of scammers?
⚠️ Attention: If the seller refuses to provide VIN code or documents confirming maintenance from an official dealer, this is a reason to be wary. Also check whether the body number under the hood matches the data in the title.
Where else can you find three triangles besides cars?
The three triangle logo is used not only in the auto industry. Here are some unexpected places where you might have seen it:
- ✈️ Aviation: Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation produces regional aircraft MRJ (Mitsubishi Regional Jet) with the same logo.
- 📡 Electronics: brand Mitsubishi Electric uses the logo on air conditioners, televisions and industrial equipment.
- 🚀 Space: Japanese launch vehicles H-IIA and H3 also carry the three-diamond symbol.
- 🏢 Real estate: There is a chain of hotels in Japan Mitsubishi Estate with a similar logo.
It's interesting that in 1990s company Mitsubishi even released bicycles under your own brand. They can be identified by the same emblem on the frame.
Why is Alpine's logo sometimes confused with Adidas?
In the 1970s Alpine collaborated with Adidas as part of racing projects. Then on some cars an emblem with three stripes appeared (like Adidas) next to the Alpine logo. Today it is no longer used, but sometimes collectors restore such historical liveries.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the three triangle logo
🔍 How to pronounce "Mitsubishi" correctly?
In Japanese the name sounds like "Mitsubishi", where:
- "Mitsu" - "three"
- "bisi" - "rhombus" or "water chestnut" (in the ancient meaning).
Pronunciation has been established in the Russian language "Mitsubishi", but sometimes you can hear “Mitsubishi” - this is incorrect.
🚗 Which car with three triangles is the rarest?
The rarest car with this logo is Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 (1990–2000). This is a sports coupe with two turbines, all-wheel drive and active aerodynamics. In total, about 16,000 copies were produced, and today working cars cost from 3 000 000 ₽.
🔧 Is it possible to determine the year of manufacture of Mitsubishi by the logo?
Yes, but only approximately:
- 1970–1990: logo with 3D diamonds and metal frame.
- 1990–2010: flat logo with gradient.
- 2010–present: Minimalist design without gradient.
The exact year can only be determined by VIN code.
💰 How much does an original Mitsubishi emblem cost?
The cost depends on the model:
- Standard emblem on the radiator grille: 1 500–3 000 ₽.
- Emblem for Lancer Evolution or Pajero: 4 000–7 000 ₽ (due to protection against counterfeiting).
- Retro emblems for classic models (1970–1990): up to 20,000 ₽.
Buy only from authorized dealers or verified sellers on eBay / Japanese auctions.
🛠️ Is it possible to change the logo on the car yourself?
Yes, but there are nuances:
- For most models Mitsubishi Simply pry off the old emblem with a flat-head screwdriver and stick the new one on double-sided tape.
- On some machines (for example, Outlander 2020+) the emblem is attached with latches - you will need to remove the radiator grille.
- For Alpine It is better to contact the service, as the logo is often integrated into the hood.
Important: After replacement, check whether there are any gaps left to avoid corrosion.
The logo with three triangles is not only Mitsubishi. Alpine also uses a similar symbol, but with a different history and meaning. Always check the details if you buy a car with this emblem!