Remember that teaser Mitsubishi released earlier this month? Well, the mystery has now been revealed! Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has just unveiled the DST Concept, a seven-seater SUV designed specifically for the ASEAN market, at the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show.
When it reaches production, the new seven-seater model will be a new addition to Mitsubishi’s ASEAN line-up, and joins the ranks of the Pajero Sport mid-size SUV, the Xforce compact SUV, and the Xpander and Xpander Cross crossover MPVs.
Purpose-built for ASEAN, the Mitsubishi DST Concept is built on a new monocoque platform designed specifically for a mid-size SUV, promising ample space and comfort for passengers. Looks wise, The DST Concept embodies Mitsubishi’s new “Gravitas & Dynamism” design language. Think bold presence meets spacious interior, with the high ground clearance and chunkier tyres you’d expect from a capable SUV.
Up front, there’s a redesigned Dynamic Shield grille with a three-dimensional look. A honeycomb-shaped inner grille sits under a transparent cover, blending seamlessly into the bumpers. T-shaped daytime running lights and LED taillights add to the modern look and emphasise the SUV’s wide stance. And check out those horizontal bars carved into the C-pillar – a nice touch that adds a rugged feel.
Inside, the DST Concept offers a spacious cabin and a panoramic sunroof. The driver gets an LCD instrument display with soft-touch materials for a premium feel. Like the X-force, the centre display is smoothly integrated into the dashboard. Its triple meter setup, displaying road conditions, gives a nod to old-school Mitsubishi SUVs like the Pajero.
Mitsubishi says the DST Concept’s high ground clearance will let it handle rough roads, which is helpful for our sometimes-questionable road conditions. It also comes with five drive modes: Wet, Tarmac, Normal, Gravel, and Mud.
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Though it’s been revealed as a front-wheel drive, Mitsubishi is keeping mum about the powertrain specifics. We’re guessing it’ll probably use the same 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine making 105 hp and 141 Nm found in the Xpander and Xforce, paired with a CVT gearbox.
Could the new Mitsubishi DST concept be making its way into Malaysia? Well, only those within Mitsubishi Motors Corporation’s boardroom will know for sure. The company says that the production model will be launch in the Philippines in 2025, and a subsequently rolled out to other markets, as what they call a “global strategic vehicle”. Given that they specifically said that it was designed for the ASEAN market, though, we think that it’s more likely than not… at least after the Xforce is launched here.
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