The Mitsubishi Xforce HEV just made its debut in Indonesia, marking a significant milestone for our archipelagic neighbours as it’s the first Mitsubishi hybrid model to be manufactured there.
The Xforce HEV runs on Mitsubishi’s e:Motion series-parallel hybrid powertrain, that is similar to Honda’s e:HEV system. Primary propulsion is courtesy of an electric motor delivering 116 hp and 255 Nm of torque that is juiced by a lithium-ion battery positioned below the front seats for a lower centre of gravity.
Running alongside it is a 1.6-litre Atkinson-cycle 4A92 MIVEC inline-four with 95 hp and 134 Nm of torque. While the petrol engine functions primarily as a generator, it can be clutched in to directly drive the front wheels when required.
The system is already employed in the Xpander HEV, but is updated with a new two-speed transaxle in the Xforce HEV. The transaxle also now uses a low-friction dog clutch and is capable of physically disconnecting the motor and drive shafts while cruising to further improve efficiency.
RELATED: All-new 2026 Mitsubishi Xforce launched in Malaysia – 2 variants, CKD from RM110k
The petrol engine itself also boasts a thermal efficiency of over 40%. All in, the e:Motion HEV system is capable of 24.4 km/l under the NEDC cycle.
Just like its combustion-only sibling, the Xforce HEV also features Mitsubishi’s Active Yaw Control (AYC). However, the real party piece would be the seven drive modes against the four in the petrol Xforce. The hybrid variant adds Charge, EV Priority, and Tarmac.
RELATED: 2025 Mitsubishi Xforce HEV revealed in Thailand ahead of official debut
Visually, the Xforce HEV gets a different set of two-tone 18-inch wheels alongside blue-accented HEV badging. Also, the ride height drops to 183mm from 222mm.
As the petrol Xforce has surged ahead to be Malaysia’s best-selling non-national compact SUV since its April launch, a adding a hybrid variant appears to be the next logical step. Its launch in Indonesia could hint at an imminent introduction in Malaysia next, though nothing is confirmed as of yet.
RELATED: Mitsubishi XForce scores 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating
