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HomeNewsMitsubishi Xforce HEV Expands Across ASEAN, Could Malaysia Be Next?

Mitsubishi Xforce HEV Expands Across ASEAN, Could Malaysia Be Next?

Jul 21, 2026
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With Mitsubishi Motors officially announcing the launch and local production of the Xforce HEV in Indonesia, this highly anticipated B-segment hybrid crossover SUV is once again in the ASEAN automotive spotlight. Over the past year or so, from its debut in Thailand to its localised production in Indonesia, Mitsubishi’s electrification push in Southeast Asia has noticeably gathered pace.

For the Malaysian market, which only recently welcomed the petrol-powered version this year to strong local reception, this hybrid newcomer – blending high efficiency with decent performance – could very well become a major hit once it arrives on our shores.

ASEAN Dual-Hub Strategy Takes Shape

The rollout of the Xforce HEV in Indonesia holds significant industrial weight. Not only is it the first hybrid model to be locally assembled by Mitsubishi at its Indonesian plant, it also marks another crucial step for the model lineup in Southeast Asia following its introduction in Thailand. By assembling the vehicle locally in Jakarta, Mitsubishi aims to leverage a more competitive supply chain to capture a larger share of the region's growing electrified SUV segment.

In Thailand, the vehicle appeals to tech-forward buyers with its unique positioning, while production in Indonesia points to optimised capacity and cost control. This dual-track regional strategy has raised high expectations in neighbouring countries for the vehicle's arrival.

e:Motion: More Than Just Fuel Economy

Under the skin, the Xforce HEV features the e:Motion series-parallel hybrid system, derived from Mitsubishi's proven plug-in hybrid technology. The setup pairs an efficient 1.6-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine (which primarily acts as a generator but can directly drive the wheels at higher speeds) with a high-output electric motor.

Compared to older hybrid siblings in the stable, the Xforce HEV brings substantial hardware upgrades:

All-new two-speed transaxle: Replacing the traditional complex structure, it balances low-speed climbing power with quiet high-speed cruising.

Motor disconnect function: Automatically decouples the electric motor from the drive shaft during high-speed cruising to minimise mechanical drag and friction losses.

Excellent fuel economy: Official tests yield a fuel consumption figure of around 24.4 km/l. Paired with a 42-litre fuel tank, this translates to an impressive driving range on a single fill-up.

Additionally, the battery pack is cleverly packaged under the front seats. This preserves cabin space while lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity, further enhancing stability and handling through corners.

Balancing Exclusive Tech and Driving Dynamics

Beyond the powertrain updates, the Xforce HEV gets chassis and handling upgrades. It retains Mitsubishi's signature Active Yaw Control (AYC) system, which subtly manages braking and drive forces on the front wheels for safer cornering, while the available drive modes have been expanded from four in the petrol version to seven.

Joining the existing terrain modes are EV Priority, Charge, and a Tarmac mode, adding a layer of driver engagement to the daily commute.

Aesthetically, the HEV distinguishes itself with model-specific bonnet lettering, blue-accented badges, and dual-tone alloy wheels. While its ground clearance has been slightly reduced from the petrol version's 222 mm to 183 mm to house the hybrid components, the trade-off comes with added comforts like a panoramic sunroof.

Next Steps for the Malaysian Market

Since its Malaysian debut, the petrol-powered Xforce has quickly carved out a niche in our highly competitive compact SUV market, thanks to its practical packaging and solid ride and handling. However, as local acceptance of hybrid vehicles matures and production in neighbouring countries ramps up, demand for the HEV variant is gaining momentum.

Although Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has yet to confirm a local launch timeline, the rollout in Thailand and Indonesia indicates that right-hand drive (RHD) homologation and technical adaptation are already sorted. Should this B-segment crossover – boasting 24.4 km/l fuel economy, seven drive modes, and electrified driving dynamics – arrive in Malaysia, it is bound to stir up the local hybrid SUV segment.

The Mitsubishi Xforce is now available in two variants in Malaysia:

  • Xforce Urban: RM 109,980
  • Xforce Ultimate: RM 119,980

Note: The prices are on-the-road, excluding insurance.

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