FACT spent the day in the all-new Mitsubishi XFORCE, a premium compact SUV packed with an impressive array of high-end features.

With a legacy dating back over 150 years, it is no wonder Mitsubishi has produced some of the finest 2WD vehicles to grace the market. Having previously test-driven the Xpander and the Montero Sport GLS, we expected big things when we were invited to experience the new Mitsubishi XFORCE.

Futuristic Exterior

The day we were introduced to the new XFORCE, is one we won’t soon be forgetting. Mitsubishi has bestowed its latest creation with a sleek and stylish appearance, one that exudes contemporary class and sophistication.

The brand has based the design on the Silky and Solid concept, meaning this compact SUV looks both rugged and refined, a combination sure to draw attention when out and about.

At 4.39 metres long, 1.81 metres wide and 1.66 metres tall, along with a class-leading ground clearance of 222mm, this versatile car is equally suited for busy city streets and off-road trails.

From head on, we appreciated the design of the new generation dynamic shield with honeycomb accents and Mitsubishi Motors’ iconic T-shaped LED headlights that ensure an athletic look.

At the sides, muscular fenders and two-tone, 18-inch, diamondcut alloy wheels reinforce the powerful persona, further enhancing the desire to take the SUV on a 2WD adventure.

The rear also features T-shaped LED lights and dual exhaust openings, ensuring an all-around sporty aesthetic.

Tech-Savvy Interior

Once inside the shapely SUV, we were taken by the luxurious nature of the interior, a space made up of premium materials and cutting-edge technologies.

Mitsubishi has included a mélange fabric as padding for the instrument panel – a first for this Japanese brand – creating a sense of enclosure, as it covers everything up to the door trim.

The modern, driver-focussed cockpit features a well-thought-out layout with ultra-comfortable synthetic leather seats that are supple to the touch. We also appreciated the sturdy steering wheel, along with the convenient positioning of all controls.

This contemporary cockpit also contains a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen on the centre dash. This Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Combined with an eight-inch Digital Driver Display, the user-friendly nature of this setup meant information and entertainment were always at our fingertips.

The XFORCE offers 40:20:40 split-rear seating and provides a flexible setup for transporting people and cargo. Ample head, shoulder and leg room guarantees a comfortable ride for all occupants, with the hands-free power tailgate adding to the dayto-day convenience of the vehicle.

Other must-mention interior highlights include wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control, USB Type A & C ports and a nanoe X air purifier.

“Mitsubishi has bestowed its latest creation with a sleek and stylish appearance, one that exudes contemporary class

Satisfying Safety & Performance

Under the well-proportioned bonnet, the all-new XFORCE houses a four-cylinder, 1.5-litre MIVEC responsive engine, coupled with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Cruising around the city, this effective combination delivered an ideal balance between driving power and fuel efficiency. Although we could have used a few more horses when accelerating, once the car got up to speed, it proved capable and responsive.

The innovative transmission also features a ‘Ds’ function (Downshift and Sporty) that enhanced the driving force and engine braking, ensuring a confident and sporty driving experience.

The XFORCE also delivers four driving modes – Normal, Gravel, Wet and Mud. This means owners can set off confidently under any conditions, making it a suitable SUV for the Middle East’s challenging off-road terrain.

Adding to the car’s capabilities is the inclusion of Mitsubishi’s Active Yaw Control which, in our experience, delivered excellent performance and stability en route.

Lastly, the suspension system features McPherson struts at the front end and a torsion beam at the rear, adding to the smooth nature of the drive.

Mitsubishi has equipped the XFORCE with an array of safety and driver assistance features, including six airbags, a Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), an electric parking brake with an auto hold function and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Our Verdict

The all-new Mitsubishi XFORCE is a great addition to the brand’s impressive off-road collection. This comfortable, stylish, luxurious and capable compact SUV is ideal for daily use and longer road trips, both on and off the tarmac. ✤

GO: CALL 4422 7555 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN.