Mitsubishi Sets its Sights on Southeast Asia with XFC-Inspired Small SUV

By Jeff Gibbs

Mitsubishi has taken a decisive step forward by unveiling the design of its upcoming small SUV tailored for the Southeast Asian market. Inspired by the XFC concept showcased in late 2022, the design strongly indicates the imminent transition from concept to production.

With the primary target market being the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) –encompassing Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Brunei, Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore, and Malaysia – the small SUV’s production is notably tailored for this region. However, this does not guarantee its availability in Australia, as the model’s compatibility with local standards remains a deciding factor.

The small SUV, born from the XFC concept, will make its tangible debut at the 2023 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show. Its dimensions place it in close proximity to the ASX and Eclipse Cross, measuring 4390mm in length, 1810mm in width, and 1660mm in height. Presently, only exterior design elements have been offcially confrmed.

Mitsubishi has also indicated that the forthcoming model will be equipped with a 1.5-litre engine, possibly a four-cylinder confguration. This engine will power the front wheels through a CVT transmission.

Given the distinct regional focus, the current iteration of the model does not cater specifcally to stringent Australian regulations. Mitsubishi Australia’s spokesperson provided insights, stating, “This vehicle is the production version of the XFC small SUV concept shown earlier this year... For Australia, our current focus remains on the existing ASX and Eclipse Cross in this highly competitive space, and we are exploring options with Japan on which future direction we will take.”

Two potential avenues seem plausible on the horizon. One option involves reengineering the XFC-based small SUV to align with Australian requirements, thus customizing it for the local market. Alternatively, Mitsubishi could opt to introduce the Euro-spec ‘secondgen’ ASX, built on the Renault Captur platform, as a replacement for the frst-generation ASX. This intriguing proposition, while involving badge swapping, would introduce an ASX variation into the Australian market, competing against the actual Renault Captur. A compelling comparison reveals that Mitsubishi’s ASX sold 4207 units in contrast to the Renault Captur’s 685 units in the frst half of 2023.

While Mitsubishi’s current trajectory emphasizes Southeast Asia, the brand’s evolving strategy for Australia will determine its presence Down Under. Time will tell whether this XFCinspired small SUV will grace Australian shores or if another intriguing path awaits

Toyota HiLux Revo BEV Arrives in Australia Under the Cover of Night

The Toyota HiLux Revo BEV has made a discreet entry onto Australian soil, emerging at Fremantle Port during the cover of night. Images of this all-electric pickup truck surfaced on Twitter courtesy of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association (AEVA) this week.

The snapshot was taken on August 7th, as the striking concept utility vehicle joined a plethora of Toyota and Lexus vehicles being unloaded from a cargo carrier. While Toyota Australia has offcially indicated that the Revo BEV is present for “internal review,” it’s highly likely that this evaluation is being conducted in partnership with Toyota’s mining feet associates. Many of these associates are expected to participate in the...

It wouldn’t be unexpected for the vehicle to remain in Western Australia for some time, possibly to be exhibited at the WA Mining Conference and Exhibition scheduled for October 11th and 12th. This is especially plausible since the most signifcant mining projects in Australia are concentrated in WA. Originally introduced as a concept in Thailand last year, the Revo BEV envisions a battery-electric variant of the single-cab HiLux pickup truck popular in that market. However, precise technical details have remained scarce since its initial reveal.

The keen interest of Toyota Australia in the Revo BEV is evident, as the local division of the Japanese automaker dispatched executives and engineers to Thailand to assess the concept soon after its debut. Now, the unique creation has found its way Down Under, arriving approximately seven months after Roev, a Melbourne-based HiLux and Ranger EV conversion company, disclosed that all of its ‘EV Fleet Program’ build slots for 2023 had already been reserved, showcasing a growing demand for electric conversions.

This development validates the long-standing assumption that Australian vehicle feet companies are prepared to embrace and prioritize electrifcation in their operations. Roev offers the conversion of existing (2016-2022)

Toyota HiLux or Ford Ranger models into full electric power, complete with either a Standard Range (64 kWh, 240 km) or Extended Range (96 kWh, 360 km) battery pack. These conversions, capable of 80 kW CCS DC fast charging, are priced between $47,990 and $57,990, contingent on the chosen specifcations.

With Toyota Australia also collaborating on a battery-electric LandCruiser 70 Series with Vivopower, the landscape for electric pickup trucks is poised for growth in Australia. Toyota could seize a substantial share of this market if it decides to introduce its own factory-supplied EV utility vehicles.

Separately, an electric Toyota pickup tailored primarily for Asian and emerging markets is anticipated to enter production in the later part of this year, with a launch projected for early 2024. Toyota Australia reaffrmed its interest in such a product as recently as June.