Mitsubishi is planning a return to the Taiwanese market with its new model, the XForce, scheduled for launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.

It will be produced locally and is expected to have a starting price of approximately NTD 800,000 (US$ 27,300). It will compete with existing Japanese models such as the Toyota Corolla Cross and Honda HR-V within Taiwan's compact crossover SUV segment.

Strategic focus on SUVs and pickups

Following a period of product restructuring, Mitsubishi Motors is concentrating on sport utility vehicles and pickups. The XForce, a compact crossover SUV, has been developed for Southeast Asian and emerging markets.

It incorporates off-road-inspired styling and urban-oriented features, with an emphasis on technology, interior space, and reliability to align with consumer preferences in the region.

First introduced as the XFC Concept in 2022, the XForce entered production in Indonesia in 2023. Built on a front-wheel-drive platform, its dimensions place it in the same category as the Corolla Cross and Mazda CX-30.

Mitsubishi will also manufacture the XForce locally in Taiwan, marking its first domestically produced passenger vehicle in several years.

Competing in the compact SUV segment

Production will be managed by China Motor Corporation. Mitsubishi Taiwan will position the XForce against models including the Corolla Cross, HR-V, and imported Mazda CX-30.

With the Corolla Cross leading in sales and the HR-V offering a hybrid option and updated features, the XForce will need to present clear differentiators to be considered competitive.

Mitsubishi has outlined three primary attributes for the XForce:

- Interior space
- Pricing
- Standard equipment levels

The model is aimed at young families and first-time vehicle buyers who require practical transport but do not prefer entry-level hatchbacks.

Pricing expectations and market positioning

Based on prevailing market conditions, the XForce is expected to launch in the high NTD 700,000 range. Higher-specification variants are anticipated to remain priced below equivalent imported models such as the Mazda CX-30, potentially offering a cost-related advantage.

Powertrain and hybrid variant

The standard version is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), producing 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque. This configuration is aimed at urban driving and general crossover use, and is expected to remain unchanged in the Taiwanese version due to its balance between affordability and fuel economy.

A hybrid variant is under development for selected markets, pairing a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (107 PS / 134 Nm) with an electric motor system (116 PS / 255 Nm). This version offers a claimed fuel efficiency of up to 24.4 km/ litre and includes:

- EV-only mode
- Battery charging mode
- Active Yaw Control (AYC)
- Five driving modes: Normal, Wet, Gravel, Mud, and Tarmac

If offered in Taiwan at under NTD 850,000, the hybrid version could compete with the Corolla Cross Hybrid and HR-V e:HEV, due to its dimensions, local production, and feature set.

Market Outlook

The launch of the XForce marks Mitsubishi's re-entry into Taiwan's compact crossover SUV segment. As a locally manufactured product, it may provide the company with an opportunity to re-establish a market presence. The outcome will depend on Mitsubishi's ability to meet expectations related to pricing, specifications, and product differentiation.

Availability of a hybrid option could further influence its competitiveness among both existing and potential customers.