Mitsubishi reveals exterior of upcoming compact SUV

Mitsubishi Motors has just revealed exterior images of its upcoming new B-segment crossover SUV ahead of its world premiere next month at the 30th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS).

Based on the Mitsubishi XFC Concept which was unveiled in October last year, the all-new crossover model which still has no model name and is simply dubbed as “The New SUV,” is designed specifically for the ASEAN market. It will also mark the Japanese automaker’s return to the segment, at least here in the Philippines.

Based on the design concept of Silky & Solid, the XFC Concept-based crossover wears a new and evolved version of the brand’s signature Dynamic Shield front fascia. The overall look is sleek and muscular, following the trend for most crossovers these days. The LED headlights and taillights follow a similar T-shape which will help make it instantly recognizable as a Mitsubishi product.

Some things to note, Mitsubishi says that this new crossover will come with 222 mm of ground clearance which is among the best in the segment, as well as 18-inch alloy wheels with large diameter tires. It will also come with a new Dynamic Sound Yamaha premium sound system which was jointly developed with Yamaha Corporation and will be first used in this new model.

Other details such as its powertrain have been partially revealed. Mitsubishi says this new crossover will have a 1.5-liter gasoline engine under the hood, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), that sends power to the front wheels. Output figures are yet to be revealed.

“In this all-new model, we have further evolved the design to meet the needs of the compact SUV market, which has been growing in recent years,” said Division General Manager of Design for Mitsubishi Motors Seiji Watanabe. “In addition to the robustness and powerfulness characteristic of Mitsubishi Motors, we have pursued a design that is more stylish, energetic, and distinctive than ever. At the upcoming Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show, we hope that even more customers will discover what Mitsubishi Motors has to offer and empathize with our design through this all-new compact SUV.”

Whatever it will be called, the all-new Mitsubishi crossover is set to be revealed at the 30th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) this coming August 10, 2023. Sales are expected to start by November 2023, with other markets such as the Philippines to follow after.