The 2024 Mitsubishi Xforce has been unveiled in Tokyo as a new SUV for southeast Asia, similar in size to the ASX. However, the Xforce has not been confirmed for an Australian release as it was designed to meet the crash and emissions standards of markets like Thailand. Mitsubishi is expected to decide on a replacement for the ASX before the end of 2023, considering either an upgraded version of the Xforce or a rebadged product from the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, possibly a Renault Captur.
The Xforce is 4390mm long, 1810mm wide, and 1660mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2650mm. It is slightly longer and taller than the current ASX, but the width remains the same, with a slightly shorter wheelbase. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine producing 77kW of power and 141Nm of torque, paired with a CVT automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
Inside, the Xforce features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment screen and an 8.0-inch driver display, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. There are ample storage spaces for bottles and a center console with air-conditioning for keeping drinks cool. It also offers wireless phone charging and USB-A and USB-C ports for front and rear passengers. The Xforce is designed with soft-roading capabilities and has 222mm of ground clearance, along with approach and departure angles of 21 and 30.5 degrees respectively.
The current ASX, which accounted for over 15% of Mitsubishi sales in Australia in 2022, has been on sale since 2010 and may be due for a replacement. If the Xforce is not brought to Australia, Mitsubishi may consider selling a rebadged Renault Captur as an ASX. This approach presents challenges in convincing Renault to produce the Captur in right-hand drive for the Australian market and in selling a fundamentally different vehicle at a different price point than the current ASX. Mitsubishi has previously faced issues with rebadged Renault products in Australia. Regardless, Mitsubishi believes that buyers will be receptive to a rebadged Alliance product if it is of good quality.