Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has officially unveiled the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) model of its new compact SUV, the XForce, during an event held on March 20, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. This launch coincides with the commencement of order-taking in a market where the company aims to enhance its presence.
The XForce HEV model is being produced at Mitsubishi Motors Thailand's Laem Chabang Plant, which is geared towards elevating the company’s competitive edge in the Southeast Asian automotive market. This model was first introduced at the 30th Indonesia International Auto Show in August 2023, and its latest iteration reflects Mitsubishi's commitment to environment-friendly driving solutions.
This compact SUV, designed to comfortably seat five passengers, is a significant addition to Mitsubishi’s lineup, aligning with the company’s ethos encapsulated in the concept of "Best-suited buddy for an exciting life." The latest XForce HEV joins the ranks of the brand’s previously released HEV models, the Xpander and Xpander Cross, which debuted in Thailand earlier this year in February.
What makes the XForce standout is its advanced hybrid system, which is evolved from the plug-in hybrid EV’s (PHEV) technology Mitsubishi has pioneered. The XForce HEV is lauded not just for its environmentally friendly approach but also for achieving impressive fuel economy ratings of approximately 24.4 km/L. This figure is particularly appealing in a market that increasingly prioritizes sustainability in vehicle options.
The heart of the XForce HEV is its 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve MIVEC engine, which achieves thermal efficiency exceeding 40%. This level of engineering excellence is highlighted by Mitsubishi's efforts to improve fuel economy through innovative design choices. The vehicle incorporates a seamless integration of the motor, generator, and transmission systems, significantly mitigating how much high-frequency noise permeates the cabin.
Mitsubishi has equipped the XForce with several driving modes, including EV mode, hybrid mode, and regenerative mode, which automatically adjust based on driving conditions and battery levels. This ensures not only lower fuel consumption but also delivers a robust driving experience—whether in urban settings or out on regional roads.
CEO Takao Kato commented on the significance of this launch, stating, "This trend shows that the demand for HEVs is increasing globally as a top choice for electric vehicles that don’t require charging infrastructure." This reflects Mitsubishi's commitment to meeting evolving consumer needs, especially given the growing concerns over charging station availability for fully electric vehicles.
The exterior of the XForce is defined by a design philosophy termed "Silky & Solid," which blends functionality with aesthetics. The compact dimensions ease maneuverability while accommodating a spacious cabin that does not compromise passenger comfort. The innovative construction allows the XForce to maintain a ground clearance of 183mm, ideally suited for the varied terrains typical in Southeast Asia, ranging from urban landscapes to rugged outdoor environments.
Internally, the vehicle adopts a "Horizontal Axis" theme for the instrument panel, which enhances visibility for the driver. The cabin promises a luxurious feel with high-quality materials that echo a modern living space. Furthermore, the XForce includes a state-of-the-art audio system developed in partnership with Yamaha, featuring eight speaker configurations designed for a superior in-car listening experience.
With the introduction of the XForce HEV, Mitsubishi Motors reaffirms its strategy to penetrate deeper into the ASEAN market while promoting its vision of sustainable mobility. This vehicle is poised to cater to a demographic that values efficiency, performance, and contemporary styling, making it a strong competitor in the HEV segment.
As Mitsubishi continues to monitor and adapt to consumer behaviors and market demands, the XForce HEV will participate in upcoming auto shows, such as the 46th Bangkok International Motor Show starting March 24, 2025. This exhibition will offer potential customers the chance to see the vehicle up close while cementing Mitsubishi's innovation in the automotive sector.
