Ready for the new Destinator
Mitsubishi fans have something to look forward to this last quarter of the year.
The once- concept vehicle, dubbed as” DST SUV”, which, if you remember it correctly, debuted last October 2024 during the Philippines International Motor Show, has already begun mass production and was, in fact, unveiled at the 32nd GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show last July.
The new model is set to be introduced in other ASEAN markets, including Vietnam and the Philippines, as well as in South Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.
According to industry insiders, the vehicle now named: “Mitsubishi Destinator” will set foot on our local shores with a public launch on November 15, 2025.
The all-new Destinator is being manufactured at Krama Yudha in Indonesia.
Developed under the product concept of a “Confidence Booster for Energetic Families,” the vehicle is a seven-seater midsized SUV featuring a spacious three-row layout. It was named as such in the hopes that it will empower drivers and their beloved families “to pursue new destinations with confidence”.
The Destinator is an amalgam of refined, authentic SUV design, together with a spacious, premium interior.
It claims to deliver powerful, exhilarating acceleration and safe, reliable driving performance across any terrain.
In a statement, Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer, Mitsubishi Motors, said: “The all-new Destinator is a seven-seater SUV designed to encourage families to embark on adventures in comfort.”
Moreover, he stated that the vehicle marks the third global strategic model born in Indonesia, following the Xpander crossover MPV and the Xforce compact SUV, and it will be marketed globally with a focus on the ASEAN region.
“ Our operations in Indonesia are a cornerstone of Mitsubishi Motors’ business, and by expanding the production and sales of the Destinator and other models, we are committed to contributing to the growth of the Indonesian automotive industry and the local economy, while delivering vehicles that inspire and delight customers around the world,” he added.
Under the hood, the all-new Destinator is equipped with a 1.5-liter MIVEC turbo engine based on the proven design of the 4B40 turbo engine. It features a water-cooled intercooler and a high expansion ratio cycle (Atkinson cycle) to achieve both powerful acceleration and high fuel efficiency.
With a maximum output of 163 hp and a maximum torque of 250 N-m , it is said to offer an exciting ride with smooth and responsive acceleration.
Mirage comeback
Meanwhile, the Mitsubishi Mirage G4, which for the longest time has enjoyed the throne of being named “the topseller” for the Japanese brand is bidding for a comeback this year and deliver the usual numbers for Mitsubishi. From an average of 2,400 monthly unit sales, the Mirage G4’s output has slowed down to just 1,400 unit sales per month.
Despite the temporary drawback, some local dealers remain steadfast that the subcompact sedan will soon recover.
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation is, in fact, eyeing to match its usual delivery of units in the next several months to offset the loss.
With the now upgraded Mitsubishi Mirage G4, the Japanese carmaker and its network of dealerships nationwide are positive it will recover.
“It has practicality, affordability, reliability and hence great for an entry-level vehicle and great for first-time car owners,” replied Gateway Motor’s Michael Goho when asked what makes the specific model a topseller in this age of crossovers and electrified vehicles.
The Mitsubishi Mirage G4 grabbed the 32-percent lion’s share of MMPC’s previous overall fiscal year sales of more than 91,600 units.
