Will the Mitsubishi's New 7-Seater SUV be A Game-Changer?
Mitsubishi’s new game changer will be the showstopper at the Philippine Motor Show. A new addition to its lineup is a 7-seater SUV concept set to make its grand debut at the Motor Show. Though the brand has no presence in the Indian market this SUV is generating quite a buzz,especially in the ASEAN markets, where the brand remains strong.
The new SUV, heavily inspired by Mitsubishi’s XForce model, is designed to rival other three-row SUVs like the Hyundai Alcazar. From what the teaser reveals, the vehicle looks like an extended version of the XForce, a popular model in markets like Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. With sharp design elements and an expanded wheelbase, it promises to be a robust, family-friendly vehicle with a stylish edge.
Mitsubishi hasn't revealed too many details yet, but the teaser gives us a glimpse of what to expect. Imagine the sleek and modern design of the XForce, stretched to fit more passengers. It's likely to retain many features from the XForce, with a few unique touches to set it apart. You can expect a spacious cabin, perfect for families or anyone who needs that extra room for long trips.
The interior will likely be similar to the XForce, which means a tech-savvy dashboard and a comfortable seating arrangement. The XForce is already equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a premium sound system from Yamaha. It's safe to assume that these high-tech features will carry over to the new 7-seater, along with add-ons like more USB ports and a wireless phone charger. Comfort won’t be sacrificed either, as the rear seats in the XForce can recline—a feature we hope to see in this new model.
Underneath its stylish exterior, the new SUV is expected to have a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which currently powers the XForce. This engine produces 105hp and 141Nm of torque and is paired with a CVT automatic transmission. The SUV will offer four driving modes: Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud, allowing drivers to handle different terrains with ease. However, it’s not expected to come with a four-wheel drive (4WD) system.
Unfortunately, Mitsubishi’s exit from the Indian market in recent years means that this 7-seater SUV is unlikely to make its way to Indian showrooms anytime soon. While there’s hope among enthusiasts, the company’s focus is currently on other emerging markets like Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Interestingly, Mitsubishi is part of the Renault-Nissan global alliance, and both Renault and Nissan are still going strong in India. Perhaps we could see a similar model from one of Mitsubishi’s sister brands in the future.
This new 7-seater SUV will likely compete against the likes of the Hyundai Alcazar and other similar three-row SUVs in the ASEAN region. Mitsubishi’s XForce model has already made waves as a worthy competitor to popular compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, and this new concept is an ambitious step forward.
Mitsubishi is doubling down on its strategy of producing spacious, tech-savvy vehicles for the ASEAN markets, where the demand for larger family SUVs is growing. With emerging markets becoming the key focus, the new SUV could be a game-changer for Mitsubishi’s position in the global market.
Overall, Mitsubishi’s new 7-seater SUV concept promises to be an exciting addition to the world of family SUVs, especially in markets where the brand continues to thrive. While it may not be coming to India, the buzz surrounding this model shows that Mitsubishi is far from fading away. With its modern design, tech-forward features, and practical engine, this 7-seater is sure to make waves once it's officially unveiled.
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