Mitsubishi Xforce: SUVs it will take on

As the compact SUV market in Malaysia continues to experience strong growth, Mitsubishi is poised to enter the segment with high expectations. The Japanese automaker announced the arrival of the Xforce SUV in January 2026, followed by the opening of ordering books earlier this month. Notably, the company secured over 1,000 bookings within one week, reflecting its strong appeal.

The Mitsubishi Xforce is a compact SUV that competes in the highly competitive B-segment SUV market in Malaysia, where it faces strong contenders such as the Proton X50, Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, Chery Tiggo Cross, and Perodua Traz.

Today, we will shed light on the SUVs the Xforce will take on in the Malaysian market. But, before diving into that, let's first discuss the upcoming model in brief -

Mitsubishi Xforce: A bold new contender

The Mitsubishi Xforce is a bold vehicle that is specifically developed with a focus on the way compact SUVs are used in the ASEAN region. The SUV made its global debut in Indonesia back in 2023, from where it is exported to various ASEAN markets, including the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. 

In Malaysia, it will be offered in two variants - Urban and Ultimate, with estimated pricing of RM 110,000 and RM 120,000, respectively. The SUV is locally assembled at the brand’s Pekan facility in Pahang.

Combining bold styling and everyday practicality, the SUV has the IF DESIGN AWARD 2024 under its belt. Its distinctive and modern character stands out on the road while delivering driving excitement through superior handling. 

The SUV promises confident handling across varying road conditions, thanks to four selectable drive modes, Active Yaw Control, and best-in-class 222 mm ground clearance. It also comes with best-in-class approach angle and departure angle, measured at 21.0 degrees and 30.5 degrees, respectively, adding to the confidence when going over a pavement edge. 

Inside, the SUV offers ultimate comfort and seamless convenience with a spacious cabin featuring a wide range of exciting features like - Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium Audio System, 8-step reclining rear seats, 12.3-inch infotainment unit, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a Nanoe X dual-zone air-conditioning system.

Under the hood lies a 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve MIVEC engine, which generates a maximum power of 105 PS and a peak torque of 141 Nm. The engine is paired with a high-efficiency CVT that promises low fuel consumption and quiet operation. The fuel efficiency is rated at 5.6  litres per 100 km (17.9 kmpl), according to the Malaysian Driving Cycle (MDC).

In terms of safety, the SUV holds a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, ensuring the protection of all passengers on board. The SUV is equipped with the brand’s Safety Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lead car departure notification, automatic high beam, and a 360-degree surround view monitor.

Mitsubishi Xforce: Top rivals

Models	Price	Engine	Fuel efficiency	Highlights
Proton X50	Executive - RM 89,800 Premium - RM 101,800 Flagship - RM 113,300	1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 181 PS and 290 Nm	15.6 kmpl	The model gained a massive following since its debut in 2020, and its recent version took that momentum forward with a more appealing design and innovative tech, targeting younger buyers.
Honda HR-V	1.5L S - RM 115,900 1.5L E - RM 130,900 1.5L V - RM 137,900 1.5L RS e:HEV - RM 143,900	1.5-litre 4 Cylinder, DOHC i-VTEC engine producing 121 PS and 145 Nm  1.5-litre 4 Cylinder, DOHC VTEC turbo engine producing 181 PS and 240 Nm 1.5-litre 4 Cylinder, DOHC i-VTEC hybrid engine with e-motor	S - 17 kmpl E & V - 15.3 kmpl Rs e:HEV - 24.4 kmpl	Over the past decade, the Honda HR-V has continued to win the hearts of consumers with its stylish aesthetics, spacious and practical interior, and multiple powertrain options , offering reliable performance.
Toyota Corolla Cross	1.8 V - RM 133,800 1.8 HEV - RM 140,800 1.8 HEV GR-Sport - RM 148,800	1.8-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder producing 138 PS and 172 Nm 1.8-litre petrol + e-CVT Hybrid system producing a combined output of 122 PS	1.8 V - 14.9 - kmpl  1..8 HEV - 18.9 kmpl	The Corolla Cross has a strong reputation in the local market as a practical and refined family SUV, which stands out with its hybrid efficiency, strong safety suite and Toyota’s proven resale value.
Chery Tiggo Cross	Turbo - RM 88,800 Hybrid CSH - RM 99,800	1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 147 PS and 210 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine with two e-motors, producing a combined output of 204 PS and 310 Nm Fuel efficiency -	Turbo - 15.87 kmpl Hybrid - 18.52 kmpl	Launched in July 2025, the Tiggo Cross became an instant hit due to its value-for-money proposition, combining sharp styling, aggressive pricing, and well-rounded features, which appeal to younger drivers and urban families.
Perodua Traz	X - RM 76,100 H - RM 82,000	1.5-litre 2NR-VE DVVT-i engine, delivering 106 PS and 138 Nm	21.3 kmpl	Launched in December 2025, the Traz is a practical, city-friendly SUV with “proper car” space (not a gadget flex). It is the brand’s most user-friendly vehicle to date.

As we can see above, each rival shines in its own right, whether through aggressive pricing, turbo performance or hybrid efficiency. In such a crowded and popular category, the Xforce can carve its own space with its ultimate blend of comfort, practicality, and road handling.

Also read: 5 things to know about the upcoming Mitsubishi Xforce