Mitsubishi Unveils Groundbreaking 7-Seater SUV Concept at PIMS 2024

Mitsubishi, the renowned Japanese automaker, is set to unveil a captivating 7-seater SUV concept at the upcoming Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) 2024 on October 24th. While the company has not yet disclosed the official name of the concept, industry experts believe it could soon transition into a production-ready model, offering a glimpse into the brand's future SUV lineup.

Redefining the SUV Experience: Mitsubishi's Innovative Concept Shakes Up the Market

Teasing the Future: Mitsubishi's Enigmatic SUV Concept

Mitsubishi has released two tantalizing teaser images, showcasing the front and rear profiles of the upcoming SUV concept. Although the name remains a closely guarded secret, the company has referred to it as the "DST Concept" on its website, sparking curiosity among automotive enthusiasts.The front-end design of the concept appears to be in line with Mitsubishi's recent design language, hinting at a familiar and recognizable aesthetic. However, a closer inspection reveals a unique twist, as the rear door placement suggests a more compact and maneuverable package compared to traditional 7-seater SUVs.

Sizing Up the Possibilities: Exploring the Concept's Dimensions

The positioning of the rear doors in relation to the overall length of the vehicle suggests that this concept may be smaller than the iconic Pajero SUV. This could indicate that Mitsubishi is exploring a more versatile and city-friendly 7-seater option, catering to the evolving needs of modern consumers.One intriguing possibility is that this concept could be the precursor to a new generation of the Pajero Sport, sharing underpinnings with the popular Triton mid-size pickup truck. However, it's worth noting that SUVs built on pickup truck platforms typically feature a longer rear overhang, which is not immediately evident in the teaser images.Alternatively, the concept could be a stretched version of Mitsubishi's compact SUV, the XForce, with a reconfigured interior layout to accommodate three rows of seating. This approach would allow the brand to leverage its existing platform and engineering expertise, while expanding the appeal of the XForce to a wider range of customers.

Targeting the ASEAN Market: Mitsubishi's Strategic Unveiling

Mitsubishi has emphasized that the unveiling of this 7-seater SUV concept at the PIMS event underscores the brand's focus on the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) market. This strategic decision suggests that the production version of the concept may be primarily targeted at this region, similar to the approach taken with the XForce.

Powertrain Possibilities: Speculating on the Concept's Heart

Details regarding the powertrain of the Mitsubishi SUV concept remain scarce. However, if the concept is indeed based on the XForce platform, it could potentially feature a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine producing around 103 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel-drive configuration.This powertrain setup would align with Mitsubishi's focus on efficiency and affordability, catering to the preferences of the ASEAN market. Nevertheless, it's possible that the production version could offer additional engine options, including more powerful and fuel-efficient alternatives, to cater to a wider range of customer preferences.

Unveiling the Future: Mitsubishi's Concept Debut at PIMS 2024

Mitsubishi's highly anticipated 7-seater SUV concept will make its official debut at the PIMS 2024 event, scheduled to take place from October 24th to 27th. This unveiling will provide a glimpse into the brand's vision for the future of the SUV segment, showcasing its commitment to innovation, versatility, and meeting the evolving needs of the ASEAN market.