Mitsubishi Xforce Hybrid SUV Revealed – But Australia Misses Out

Mitsubishi has introduced a hybrid version of the Xforce small SUV in Thailand, expanding its lineup with a petrol-electric variant. However, despite its fuel-efficient drivetrain and modern tech, the Mitsubishi Xforce HEV won’t be coming to Australia due to the need for expensive safety upgrades.

At Tynan Mitsubishi Kirrawee, we know many customers are eagerly awaiting Mitsubishi’s next hybrid SUV offering. While the Xforce HEV remains out of reach, there’s still plenty to look forward to in the brand’s future lineup.

What Is the Mitsubishi Xforce HEV?

The 2025 Mitsubishi Xforce HEV is the brand’s answer to hybrid SUVs like the Toyota Corolla Cross, featuring a 1.6-litre petrol engine, an electric motor, and a high-voltage battery. This system is paired with a newly developed two-speed transaxle, allowing the electric motor to disconnect at high speeds to improve efficiency and reduce energy loss.

Key performance highlights include: ✅ Fuel consumption of just 4.1L/100km under NEDC testing ✅ Regenerative braking system to recover energy when slowing down ✅ Seven drive modes, including EV Priority and Charge mode for hybrid-specific performance

Inside, the Xforce HEV shares many premium features with its petrol counterpart, including: 🎵 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen 🎵 8-inch digital instrument cluster 🎵 18-inch alloy wheels 🎵 Yamaha premium audio system 🎵 Wireless phone charging

Why Is Australia Missing Out?

Despite its impressive features, the Mitsubishi Xforce HEV won’t be coming to Australia, primarily due to safety regulations.

The Xforce was designed for markets with less stringent crash safety standards, such as South-East Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Mitsubishi estimates that, under Australia’s strict ANCAP 2023-2025 safety protocols, the Xforce would only achieve a three-star rating—making it unsuitable for government and fleet buyers who require at least a four-star or five-star rating.

Bringing the Xforce to Australia would require costly upgrades to meet local crash safety requirements, making it unviable for Mitsubishi.

What’s Coming to Australia Instead?

For Australian drivers looking for a new Mitsubishi small SUV, the European-market Mitsubishi ASX is set to arrive later this year. This Renault Captur-based model received a four-star Euro NCAP rating and will replace the current ASX, which has been on sale since 2010.

The new ASX is expected to offer both petrol and hybrid power, giving buyers an electrified alternative in Mitsubishi’s small SUV range. However, reports suggest the new ASX could be at least $6000 more expensive than the current model, with a slimmer three-variant lineup instead of the current six.

Looking for a Mitsubishi SUV? Visit Tynan Mitsubishi Kirrawee

While the Xforce HEV won’t be making it to Australia, Mitsubishi continues to evolve its SUV lineup. Whether you’re interested in the current ASX, Outlander, or Pajero Sport, Tynan Mitsubishi Kirrawee has the latest models available.

📍 Visit us today to explore our range or book a test drive!

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: Drive.com.au