Production version of Mitsubishi XFC spotted testing, could arrive this 2023

MANILA: The Mitsubishi XFC Concept — a five-seater crossover built on the Xpander platform and expected to compete in the popular B-segment market — was first shown off at the Vietnam Motor Show last year.

Concept automobiles typically take a long time to develop into models that are suitable for production. However, it appears that Mitsubishi is already testing the B-segment crossover at an advanced stage.

An Indonesian highway saw the production model of the XFC concept, which was spotted by the Sigimedianet YouTube channel. According to the spy photos, Mitsubishi appears to have mostly kept the design cues from the concept vehicle.

Sources claim that the production version of the Mitsubishi XFC concept could have two engine options: the 1.5-liter Xpander engine and a plug-in hybrid, the latter of which is said to be coming later. Mitsubishi has not yet released any official specifications for the vehicle.

2023 Mitsubishi XFC Concept

The Mitsubishi XFC Concept, a next-generation compact SUV with the tagline "best-suited buddy for an exciting life," boasts a powerful and imposing design, utility features like easy handling and a generous cargo space, comfort features like a class-leading interior space, and safe, secure road handling even on bumpy surfaces or roads that have been inundated by heavy rains.

"We will launch the new compact SUV sequentially in the Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) markets including Vietnam in fiscal year 2023," said Takao Kato, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mitsubishi Motors.

"In the future, we plan to add an electrified variant to the lineup and to also roll it out in regions outside Asean. We hope to grow the model from a vehicle for the Asean market to a global strategic vehicle, making it a core model like the sales-leading Xpander crossover MPV (multi-purpose vehicle)."

It completes Mitsubishi Motors' broad lineup of goods made specifically for the Asean market — which also includes the Triton pickup truck, Pajero Sport midsize SUV, Outlander and Outlander PHEV midsize SUVs, Xpander and Xpander Cross crossover MPVs, Mirage compact hatchback, and Attrage sedan.

2023 Mitsubishi XFC Concept Exterior

By combining a small yet intimidating SUV aura with a smooth surface that forms one continuous flow that starts at the front three-diamond logo and extends to the sides and rear, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept personifies the "Robust & Ingenious" design spirit of Mitsubishi Motors. It now has a chic and fit profile that blends in with Asean cityscapes.

The Mitsubishi XFC Concept also places an emphasis on durability and agility while flaunting a distinctive SUV appearance that stands out in outdoor settings. Wide wheels and a lot of ground clearance, which boost the vehicle's ability to handle uneven roadways, make this possible.

The front's Dynamic Shield concept, which conveys both performance and protection, has evolved in tandem with the concept. The DRLs that are located below the L-shaped headlight unit come together to form the recognized T-shape of illumination that suggests width.

While the front and rear fender flares and character lines are sculpted to depict the SUV's power and vitality, the body's sides are made out of rich, muscular materials. To highlight width and stability in the design, the rear also incorporates T-shaped tail lights similar to the front.

2023 Mitsubishi XFC Concept Interior

Inside, there is convenience and comfort, which are requirements for an SUV. The instrument panel has a horizontally themed design that improves forward view and makes it easier to notice changes in the vehicle's posture when driving over rough terrain.

In order to create a secure and pleasant interior, a series of soft padding and the dynamic design that runs from the instrument panel to the door trim convey a sensation of enclosure and protection. The Mitsubishi XFC Concept is designed to be easy to drive, with great forward visibility, a clear sense of the car's size, and straightforward handling.

In order to provide a safe and comfortable driving environment and to convey a sense of advanced design, the instrument panel has a large display panel that integrates a full digital driver display and a center display that can show three separate pieces of information, such as navigation, road surface conditions, and other information necessary for driving on one screen.

The Mitsubishi XFC Concept has a small body, yet it is also functional and has a lot of luggage space. The Mitsubishi XFC Concept has a roomy interior despite being a small SUV. It delivers the highest level of comfort in its class, especially with the spacious legroom in the back seats.

2023 Mitsubishi XFC Driving Features

Moreover, everyone on board can feel safe and reassured, with vehicle stability control in slippery road conditions and high-quality ride comfort.

The Mitsubishi XFC Concept offers a fun, safe, and comfortable ride in a variety of weather and road situations thanks to its ample ground clearance and four drive modes: Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud. The Wet mode was initially debuted in a Mitsubishi car and was created with use in Asean countries in mind, allowing safe driving even on roadways inundated by unexpected downpours.

Photos from Mitsubishi, Sigimedianet YouTube channel

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