The Mitsubishi Xforce 2026 arrives at a time when the subcompact SUV (B segment) market in Malaysia is increasingly crowded and competitive.
Based on our initial brief test drive, it is clear that this new model is not merely trying to ride the wave of SUV popularity.
The question is: How will the Xforce stand out in a market flooded with various options from local manufacturers, as well as those from China and Japan?
Here are five aspects that captivated us about Mitsubishi Malaysia’s latest offering.
Distinctive Appearance
The Mitsubishi Xforce features a modern Dynamic Shield design approach.
With characteristics like large, sharp headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels, it’s no surprise that this SUV looks more striking and prominent on the road.
Fortunately, Mitsubishi has not followed the trend of horizontal LED light bars like many other manufacturers.
The exterior design of the Xforce also contributes to superior aerodynamics compared to its competitors.
When was the last time you saw a Mitsubishi car styled as elegantly as the Xforce?
Modern Cabin Space
In the author’s opinion, the layout of the Mitsubishi Xforce’s cockpit is one of the tidiest in the B-segment SUV category.
The menu display is easy to read, and the digital cluster screen is intentionally placed deeper, providing a more natural feel.
It doesn’t feel like you’re looking at two iPads perched on the dashboard.
What I particularly liked? The display shows the driving score reminiscent of the Pajero, complete with an airplane-style meter on the central screen.
The physical controls for the air conditioning system and drive mode switch are large and easy for drivers to reach.
Additionally, the Xforce offers quite comfortable seating in both the front and back rows, although it only has manual adjustments.
The cargo space is quite ample, around 410 liters, to accommodate daily necessities.
The next point will position the Xforce as one of the unique SUVs in its segment.
Yamaha Audio System
Unique in its segment due to an audio system specifically developed by Yamaha!
There are up to eight speakers installed in the Xforce cabin, including the following components:
- 25mm tweeter × 2 on the A-pillars
- 160mm woofer × 2
- 160mm/25mm co-axial × 2 for the second-row passengers
Based on our brief experience, I admit that the sound quality and output from this Yamaha audio system resonate more with me compared to competing models.
It feels like driving a much more expensive vehicle.
Evo-Inspired Driving Dynamics
This SUV is built with daily use in Southeast Asia as its main goal.
Even though it uses the Xpander platform, the Xforce features a stiffer chassis structure combined with suspension tuning better suited to local road conditions.
It’s no surprise that the Xforce offers improved driving dynamics compared to the Xpander.
It might even be better than most competitors in the market.
The secret? The Xforce received input from Masahiro Tamura, the Chief Product Engineer at MMC and a former engineer for Mitsubishi’s high-performance Lancer Evolution!
The proof lies in the presence of Active Yaw Control (AYC) to ensure more confident handling of this SUV on the road.
Body roll is minimized, and steering feedback is more precise and reassuring, even when the SUV is driven a bit aggressively through corners.
The 1.5-liter MIVEC 4A91 engine, producing 103 hp and 141 Nm, is paired with a CVT for a smoother initial driving experience.
The throttle response is light, enhanced by a reassuring braking system to ensure the SUV stops effectively.
However, it may not be suitable for those who tend to put too much weight on the accelerator since the engine response may feel lacking when extra power is needed.
In our view, the Mitsubishi Xforce is more suited for relaxed driving, fitting its character as an urban SUV. Where would you rush to?
Driving Modes for ASEAN Weather Conditions
The Mitsubishi Xforce is equipped with several driving modes including Normal, Gravel, Mud, and Wet.
Not limited to adjusting power output, the Xforce’s driving modes modify throttle response, traction control, handling, and Active Yaw Control features based on the situation.
The most useful driving mode for the current weather conditions is undoubtedly the Wet mode.
We were given the opportunity to assess this mode’s effectiveness on a road intentionally wet to simulate conditions during rain.
In normal circumstances, the SUV would skid out when speed is increased.
However, handling became much easier to control when the Wet mode was activated, and the Xforce felt more glued to the slick road.
According to Mitsubishi, this Wet mode is a new feature developed specifically for ASEAN customers in regions with high rainfall frequency.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Xforce is an intriguing product offered by MMM for the local market.
With a more mature design, a far more modern cabin, and tuning tailored for Southeast Asian roads, it suggests that Mitsubishi genuinely wants to return as a top choice in this class.
The Mitsubishi Xforce 2026 will be launched soon, and we believe the estimated selling price starting from RM110,000 is not a significant hurdle for avid Mitsubishi fans.
