The 2024 Mitsubishi Xforce, a new SUV designed for the south-east Asian market, has been unveiled in Tokyo. This compact SUV is similar in size to the aging ASX and could potentially replace it in Australia. However, its introduction in Australia is uncertain due to differing crash and emissions standards, as the Xforce meets more lenient regulations in markets like Thailand. Mitsubishi plans to decide on the ASX replacement by the end of 2023, considering either an upgraded Xforce version meeting Australian standards or a rebadged model from the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, possibly the Renault Captur.

The 2024 Mitsubishi Xforce measures 4390mm in length, 1810mm in width, and 1660mm in height, with a 2650mm wheelbase. It is slightly longer and taller than the ASX, sharing the same width on a slightly shorter wheelbase. Powering the Xforce is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine generating 77kW of power and 141Nm of torque, paired with a CVT automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The interior features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, an 8.0-inch driver display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Notably, there's ample cabin storage for 21 600ml bottles, and the center console includes air-conditioning for drink cooling.

The 2024 Mitsubishi Xforce is designed with a focus on south-east Asian markets and soft-roading capabilities. With 222mm of ground clearance, it aligns with vehicles like the Subaru Crosstrek, and it boasts approach and departure angles of 21 and 30.5 degrees respectively. The existing ASX has been a significant part of Mitsubishi's Australian sales, but it's reaching the end of its lifecycle. The challenge lies in replacing it with a suitable model, and Mitsubishi is considering both the Xforce and a rebadged Renault Captur as options.

However, opting for the Captur presents challenges. Convincing Renault to produce sufficient volumes of the rebadged Captur in right-hand drive for the Australian market is a hurdle. Additionally, the Captur is positioned differently in terms of pricing and target audience. While Mitsubishi's newer models are moving upscale, the ASX's appeal lies in its value-oriented pricing. The current ASX's price range is $23,990 to $34,740 before on-road costs, whereas the Captur starts at $31,800 and goes up to $41,300 before on-road costs. Despite the challenges, Mitsubishi is hopeful that customers will embrace a rebadged Alliance product if it meets their expectations.

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