Mitsubishi has finally revealed the production version of the DST Concept that they revealed during last year’s Philippine International Motor Show. As rumors and even a patent filing confirm, the production crossover SUV is called the Mitsubishi Destinator, and there’s quite a lot to unpack about this vehicle.
For starters, if its styling and proportions are reminiscent of the Xforce, well, that’s because they share the same Xpander-based underpinnings. However, the Destinator’s chassis, suspension, and other structural components have taken into account the preferences and durability needs of the ASEAN market.
What sets the Destinator mechanically from the Xforce, however, is its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It’s the same powertrain that’s shared in the Eclipse Cross, and it produces 163 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. This is mated to a CVT that drives the front wheels. No all-wheel drive (AWD) to be found here, but Mitsubishi hopes that its Active Yaw Control and 214 mm of ground clearance will be enough for you to be confident when tackling rough roads.
As far as designs go, the 2026 Mitsubishi Destinator thankfully keeps most of the radical styling of the concept it was based on. Though design flourishes like the T-shaped LED headlights remind us of its Xforce underpinnings, the rest of the bodywork looks cohesive and well-proportioned.
The C-pillar even contains a unique pattern to add character to its side, while geometric 18-inch wheels give the Destinator a purposeful look. As for the rear end, the tailgate design is similar to the Xforce’s, down to the LED taillights. Though in this case, Destinator is written across the tailgate’s width.
As for the interior, unsurprisingly, it shares a lot in common with the Xforce. Though it loses the small shelf and the fabric dash, it gets a more straightforward design with a leatherette surface for a more premium feel. There’s also the familiar 12.3-inch main infotainment screen, the 8-inch digital gauges, and also the Dynamic Sound Premium Yamaha sound system. What’s new here in the Destinator is a panoramic sunroof, and Mitsubishi’s first implementation of 64-color ambient LED lighting at this price point. Lastly, there’s a full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems that includes automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, full-speed adaptive cruise control, among other features.
The 2026 Mitsubishi Destinator will first make its public appearance at the upcoming Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show this July 24. The primary markets for the Destinator is the ASEAN region, and that will definitely include the Philippines, too.
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