MIAS 2023: Mitsubishi PH teases the XFC and XRT concepts

Five new models are in store for us in the next five years from Mitsubishi. PHOTO FROM MITSUBISHI

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines is going strong into 2023 by announcing five new models for the ASEAN and Pacific markets. As mentioned in a presentation by Mitsubishi’s ASEAN division general manager during the 2023 Manila International Auto Show, these five models are composed of existing nameplates. All-new models will be launched in the next five years.

The XRT concept is bound to be the 2023 Mitsubishi Strada. PHOTO FROM MITSUBISHI

We know of two of the models so far, based on the XFC and XRT concepts. Shown off at the Bangkok International Motor Show, the XRT concept is meant to be the all-new Triton (locally known as the Strada), while the XFC is a brand-new compact SUV.

Production models for both are expected to launch in 2023, but whether the local launch would follow swiftly after is one we’ll still wait to see.

The XFC, based on the concepts released by Mitsubishi, has a striking urban look yet still manages to power. In promotional materials, it even has a Wet driving mode intended to tackle a very ASEAN problem: fording through flooded roads caused by sudden downpours.

The XFC concept is going to be a brand-new compact SUV for Mitsubishi, set to launch this year. PHOTO FROM MITSUBISHI

MMPC seems to be going strong, having sold 1.2 million vehicles locally since it started some 60 years ago. Of all those sales, 800,000 units were built locally. It then makes sense that the company is going headstrong into a market that clearly has potential for growth.

Whether that hope translates to numbers is one thing that only time can tell, and we’ll just have to wait and see what three new models Mitsubishi has in store for us in the next few years to come.

Catch your favorite heritage models, see a replica of the winning Strada AXCR, and grab a cup of coffee at the L300 café. PHOTOS BY JUSTIN YOUNG AND HANS BOSSHARD

Also, as part of its 60th anniversary celebrations, MMPC’s booth features two of its iconic heritage cars (box-type Lancer and Pajero Field Master), a custom-body L300 café, and a replica of the Strada AXCR rally car.

There is also a special-edition Xpander Cross kitted out with special cosmetics. PHOTOS BY HANS BOSSHARD

Mitsubishi has also launched the Xpander Cross MMPC 60th Anniversary Edition, which is an accessorized, special-edition variant with exterior features like mud flaps, tailgate garnish, rear spoiler, and rear bumper garnish.

This special package costs P1.382 million, P50,000 more than the standard Xpander Cross. Also, if you head over to the Mitsubishi booth from April 13 to 16, you can avail of a 20% discount on tickets to the Ang Huling El Bimbo musical.