One can say that hybrids are becoming fully embraced in the market. Sure, there are the government benefits, but it’s tough to beat electrified vehicles in terms of efficiency and refinement.
Almost all the major players here have a hybrid to offer. But strangely enough, the country’s second largest automaker doesn’t have one. We are, of course, talking about Mitsubishi.
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Granted, there’s the Outlander PHEV, but that’s a niche flagship model. In terms of its mainstream models, not a single one is electrified, at least locally. That could soon change if Mitsubishi Motors Philippines decides to bring in the Xpander e:Motion, but there’s another one on the way.
Per reports in Thailand, an electrified version of the Mitsubishi XForce is coming soon. Thai automotive website Autolifethailand also added that it’s expected to premiere around March 2025. If true, then it’s just in time for the Bangkok International Motor Show.
Details are yet to be confirmed but expect a few detail changes inside and out. The hybridized XForce could get different wheels, as well as blue highlights like the Xpander e:Motion. Inside, we might see few detail changes and an electro-mechanical gear selector.
Given that the Xpander and XForce ride on the same platform, there’s a good chance that the latter will use the same powertrain from the MPV. Instead of the familiar 1.5-liter engine, it’s replaced by a 1.6-liter Atkinson Cycle mill. It’s then paired with a 1.1kWh battery that charges up the single electric motor. In the case of the Xpander, total system output is rated at 114hp and 255Nm of torque.
So, what cars are the potential rivals of the Mitsubishi XForce hybrid? Toyota is the most obvious target with the Yaris Cross HEV. More recently, Honda rolled out its updated HR-V, now with e:HEV technology, so that’s another car the electrified XForce has to look out for. With more hybrid models coming in the market, we say Mitsubishi shouldn’t miss the boat and offer both the hybrid versions of the Xpander and XForce.
