Mitsubishi has announced that it will launch a new small SUV between April 2023 and March 2024, previewed by a concept vehicle revealed this week.
gave Mitsubishi XFC Concept Debuting at the Vietnam Motor Show next week, it will give a glimpse of what the next-generation ASX could look like.
Its headliner is an evolved design language, which is also tipped to feature on the next-generation Triton ute due next year.
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Inside, the concept features a single-frame digital instrument cluster and infotainment system – similar to the Nissan Aria and Mercedes-Benz models – and two smaller displays for the digital side mirrors.
Mitsubishi hasn’t provided details on the XFC’s powertrain, but it has confirmed that four driving modes are offered: Normal, Wet, Gravel and Mud.
However, the Japanese brand mentioned a hybrid engine, suggesting another hybrid small SUV – after the Eclipse Cross plug-in – could be in the works.
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While the concept hints at a new ASX, the current model is not sold in Southeast Asia, so the upcoming model could serve as an additional model in Mitsubishi’s global lineup.
“We will launch the new compact SUV sequentially in ASEAN markets, including Vietnam, in fiscal 2023,” said Takao Kato, president and chief executive of Mitsubishi Motors.
It is understood that the new compact SUV will use a Mitsubishi-derived platform rather than the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance, with a focus on developing markets, including Southeast Asia, Africa and South America.
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It could rule it out for Australia, as the model likely fails to meet our strict design, safety and emissions standards.
Another option for Australia is the European ASX unveiled last month, however, it’s currently left-hand drive only, and a simple rebadge of the Renault Captur light SUV.
“In the future, we plan to add an electrified variant to the lineup and roll it out in non-ASEAN regions as well. We hope to transform the model from a vehicle for the ASEAN market to a global strategic vehicle.” Will be done,” Kato added.
Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Australia will launch a mild refresh of the current ASX in December, as it approaches its 13th year of sales in 2023.