What we can expect from the upcoming Mitsubishi Destinator

First unveiled to the world as the Mitsubishi DST Concept, the production model—now named the Destinator—is just days away from its official debut. Ahead of the big reveal, Mitsubishi has offered a sneak peek at what its new seven-seater crossover has to offer.

The Destinator is set to take the stage on July 23 at the 32nd GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show. So, what can we expect from Mitsubishi’s latest offering? Is it merely an XForce with an extra row of seats? Based on Mitsubishi’s teaser, the Destinator appears to be more than just that.

Unlike the XForce, which utilizes the naturally aspirated 4A91 engine, the Destinator will be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine based on the 4B40 engine in the Eclipse Cross. The Destinator’s engine is said to produce 161 hp and 250 Nm of torque, mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). 

With forced induction in the mix, the Destinator should prove to be capable of shifting its extra weight and length with ease. 

Positioned between the Xpander and the Montero Sport, the Mitsubishi Destinator is set to be the middle child of the brand’s seven-seater lineup. Its muscular bodywork doesn’t just set it apart from the smaller XForce; it’s been purposefully designed to accommodate a third row of seats, offering more space for families and larger groups.

Measuring 4,680 mm long, 1,840 mm wide, and 1,780 mm tall, with a 2,815 mm wheelbase, the Destinator delivers a solid footprint for comfort and practicality. Mitsubishi says extra attention was given to seat design and cabin layout to ensure a more enjoyable ride. The second row offers ample headroom and shoulder space, while the third row features high hip points and generous knee room to improve legroom, ideal for long drives. Dedicated rear air vents for the third row further enhance passenger comfort throughout the cabin.

Based on the spec sheet from Mitsubishi, the Destinator’s cabin is packed with modern features and thoughtful touches. Front and center is a fully digital eight-inch gauge cluster, paired with a sharp 12.3-inch Smart-link Display Audio touchscreen for the infotainment. Additional features include dual-zone climate control with ceiling-mounted vents to keep things cool, plus 64-color ambient lighting to customize the car’s vibe. The seats even have a heat-reflective coating to keep them from getting too hot. USB Type A and C ports are available all the way to the third row.

Comfort and convenience are a priority in the Destinator with features like an electronic parking brake with auto hold, a hands-free power tailgate, and even a Yamaha-tuned Dynamic Sound Premium audio system, just like in the XForce. The cabin’s flexible too, thanks to 40/20/40 split-folding second-row seats and 50/50 folding third-row seats. 

Unlike most crossovers that sit lower to the ground, the Mitsubishi Destinator is built to handle more than just city streets. With an impressive 214 mm of ground clearance, it’s ready to take on rough roads and even wade through flood-prone areas. That puts it nearly in the same league as tougher, body-on-frame SUVs when it comes to ground clearance, giving drivers extra peace of mind when the going gets rough.

Excited? The Mitsubishi Destinator is officially launching on July 23 in Indonesia. While it's confirmed that the Destinator will be coming to the Philippines, we don’t know exactly when that will be. However, since its concept version was first unveiled here, we're hoping a local launch won’t be too far behind.