New Mitsubishi XForce Arrives As Direct Successor to The ASX

After several rumours and teasers, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has finally unveiled its latest compact SUV crossover model at the ongoing 2023 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), dubbed as the Mitsubishi XForce. Based on the XFC Concept previewed last year, this model is touted as the spiritual successor to the discontinued Mitsubishi ASX – the marque’s previous compact SUV model for the region.

Mitsubishi XForce compact SUV crossover

In terms of size, the XForce measures 4,390 MM long, 1,810 MM wide, 1,660 MM tall, with a wheelbase of 2,650 MM – making it somewhat similar to the Renault-derived Euro-spec Mitsubishi ASX. For some direct comparison, the Honda HR-V B-SUV measures 4,385 MM long, 1,790 MM wide, 1,590 MM tall, with a wheelbase of 2,610 MM.

To no one’s surprises, the XForce looks somewhat similar to the XFC Concept, featuring futuristic design highlighted by its unique Y-shaped LED headlights that flank its sleek cascading-style front grille. On the side, you’ll notice that the XForce is quite a chiselled-looking car, featuring prominent wheel arches and sporty roofline.

In spite of its sporty silhouette, the XForce boasts a segment-leading ground clearance of 222 MM – allowing it to be a capable off-roader, should you desire so. Also helping boost its ride height are the 18-inch wheels the car rides on.

The Y-shaped theme continues at the XForce’s derriere, as it sports the similar-looking Y LED taillights as the one we saw on the XFC. Apart from that, the presence of rear bumper accent adds some extra rugged-ness to this already rough-looking SUV crossover.

On board, the XForce gets a slew of modern tech amenities. Highlights include the dual display unit consisting of a 12.3-inch infotainment display and a smaller 8-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8-speaker Yamaha Dynamic Sound premium audio system, stain-resistant ‘Melange’ fabric upholstery for its seats, wireless charging pad, cooled centre glove box, and many more.

Thanks to its long wheelbase of 2,650 MM, Mitsubishi claims that the XForce’s cabin is among the most spacious in its segment, allowing for better comfort for the rear passengers and bigger cargo space. Aside from roomier space, the rear seats are also reclinable, while the cargo compartment is configurable.

The XForce is still a capable off-roader, in spite of boasting a FWD drivetrain

Hiding beneath its front hood is a 1.5-litre 4-cyl naturally-aspirated petrol mill that boasts no form of electrification, capable of producing 103 HP and 141 NM – the same one used on the Xpander MPV. In charge of facilitating power delivery to its front wheels (FWD) is the automatic CVT gearbox.

Despite its FWD drivetrain, the XForce is still a capable light off-roader, courtesy of its aforementioned segment-leading ground clearance, as well as the presence of both the Active Yaw Control (AYC) and four selectable drive modes – Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud. With this setup, the XForce is capable of some light off-roading, with its suspensions already tuned for better handling on rough terrains and uneven roads – a normal sight in most ASEAN countries.

Specially-developed for the ASEAN regional markets, the all-new Mitsubishi XForce is now on sale in the Indonesian market, with prices starting from IDR 382 million (RM115,122 approx.). Aside from the ASEAN markets, this compact SUV crossover will also be available in several other markets in South Asia, Latin America, Middle East, as well as Africa.

So folks, what do you think of this all-new Mitsubishi XForce compact crossover? Keen to see Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) bring on this new B-SUV into our market alongside the new Mitsubishi Triton? As always, don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments down below…