The SUV is designed primarily for the ASEAN region as a longer three-row alternative to the smaller Mitsubishi Xforce
October 24, 2024 09:10
- The Mitsubishi DST makes its debut in the Philippines with rugged looks and a three-row cabin.
- The SUV rides on a FWD unibody architecture, which is likely to be shared with the smaller Mitsubishi Xforce.
- The production version is expected to be launched in 2025, becoming a brand new model for the ASEAN market.
Mitsubishi launched the three-row SUV concept DST at the Philippine International Auto Show. Not just to please the masses, the company also confirmed that the research will lead to a production model, mainly targeted at the ASEAN region, expected to be launched in 2025. The DST is Mitsubishi’s latest move to enhance its SUV lineup for these regions. Although the company is tight-lipped on details.
Mitsubishi said the upcoming production model will join the Xforce, Pajero Sport and Xpander Cross in the ASEAN lineup, rather than directly replace the existing SUV. Mitsubishi seems more interested in expanding its footprint than changing the status quo – although whether the saturated SUV market will welcome another competitor remains to be seen.
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The exterior design follows the brand’s “Grandeur and Dynamism” theme, but once you strip away all the flashy concept parts, there’s probably nothing to get excited about here. Its boxy proportions are standard for compact to midsize SUVs and fit closely with Mitsubishi’s strategy over the past decade or so.
The large grille at the front features a honeycomb pattern hidden under a tinted transparent cover, presumably for better aerodynamics. In keeping with Mitsubishi’s typical “Dynamic Shield” styling language, the grille is flanked by chrome inserts and T-shaped LED headlights.
Sculpted fenders emphasize the oversized wheels, while skid plates attempt to add a sense of ruggedness to the DST’s design. Cameras replace the rearview mirrors, the door handles disappear and the wraparound greenhouse features black pillars – all of which are likely to be toned down in the production version.
Inside, Mitsubishi is trying to push the product upscale with soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels. Notable features include a fully digital cockpit, a futuristic center console and a new two-spoke multi-function steering wheel.
There are integrated tables in the front seatbacks, and second-row passengers have their own climate controls. As for the third row, it seems to take up most of the cargo space, leaving little room for luggage in a seven-seat layout.
Unibody FWD Basics
Mitsubishi has been vague about the technical specifications of the SUV, revealing only that the DST uses a unibody platform. It may be an extended version of the Xforce base.
The smaller Xforce, also an ASEAN-specific model, is powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing 103 hp (77 kW / 105 PS) and paired with a CVT driving the front wheels. Whether the DST will feature a similar setup is unclear, but its larger size will certainly benefit from more muscle under the hood.
Mitsubishi confirms that DST will be a FWD product. Nonetheless, it promises safety in all weather and road conditions thanks to generous ground clearance and five available driving modes (Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Mud and Wet).
More information about DST will be announced in the coming months, with production models expected to hit the market in 2025. Until then, we’ll keep a close eye on how Mitsubishi plans to make this concept stand out in a crowded SUV market.
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