Mitsubishi has dropped an unexpected teaser for an all-new seven-seat SUV concept, set to make its global debut at the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) later this month.
This new SUV could signal Mitsubishi's growing commitment to ASEAN and neighbouring regions, with the Philippines being chosen as the launch pad for this exciting reveal.
While Mitsubishi has yet to announce the name of the new concept SUV, insider details suggest it might go by the codename “DST Concept.”
From the teaser images, it's clear that this SUV will be smaller than the Pajero Sport, raising curiosity about its intended market niche.
The design hints at a compact yet spacious three-row seating arrangement, with the rear door shut line positioned unusually close to the tailgate, indicating a more compact form factor than the traditional seven-seat SUVs like the Pajero Sport.
Speculation is rife that this new SUV could be based on the Mitsubishi XForce, a compact SUV tailored to the ASEAN market.
The teaser images reveal design elements reminiscent of the XForce, with LED headlights and a grille echoing Mitsubishi’s current Outlander. It is possible that this concept could introduce a stretched variant of the XForce, offering a three-row seating configuration to tap into the demand for family-friendly SUVs in the region.
If the XForce connection holds, we can expect the new concept to house a familiar powertrain. This would likely include the same 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine found in the XForce, delivering around 77kW with a CVT pushing power to the front wheels.
However, Mitsubishi has yet to confirm these details, leaving room for surprises at the official reveal.
In an official statement, the brand noted that this unveiling “underscores the brand’s dedication to ASEAN drivers,” hinting that the vehicle could be limited to this region, although we wouldn't mind a local release.
With the official reveal set for October 24 to 27 at the PIMS 2024, fans won’t have to wait long to learn more about Mitsubishi's latest creation.
