Mitsubishi is expanding its vehicle lineup with the debut of the Destinator, a new three-row SUV aimed at the ASEAN market. This vehicle, derived from the DST concept, showcases a blend of practical design and modern amenities, challenging the perception of budget SUVs. Despite its front-wheel-drive configuration, it offers notable ground clearance and multiple drive modes, enhancing its versatility. The interior is designed for family comfort, featuring premium sound and extensive connectivity, though its digital dashboard presents a distinctive aesthetic.

This new offering underscores Mitsubishi's strategy to introduce both rebadged models and original designs, signaling a dynamic shift in its product portfolio. The Destinator stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to providing well-equipped and spacious options for families, particularly in emerging markets. Its thoughtful features, combined with a robust powertrain, position it as a strong contender in the competitive SUV segment, offering a compelling package of utility and contemporary design.

Introducing the Destinator: Mitsubishi's New Family SUV

Mitsubishi has officially launched the Destinator, a new three-row sport utility vehicle specifically designed for the ASEAN region. This model is the production version of the DST concept unveiled last year, demonstrating Mitsubishi's capability to transform conceptual designs into tangible vehicles that meet consumer demands. The Destinator emphasizes practicality and comfort for larger families, providing ample space and convenience features expected in modern SUVs.

Powering the Destinator is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, which generates 161 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), optimizing efficiency for everyday driving. The vehicle operates exclusively with front-wheel drive, maintaining a reasonable curb weight of 3,296 pounds. Despite its family-oriented design, the Destinator boasts a generous ground clearance of 8.4 inches, or 9.5 inches with the underbody cover removed, along with selectable drive modes such as Gravel, Wet, and Mud, enhancing its adaptability to various terrains. Inside, the cabin features physical controls, a panoramic sunroof, a high-quality Yamaha sound system, 64-color ambient lighting, and USB charging ports for all three rows, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience for every passenger.

Design and Features: Comfort Meets Practicality

The Destinator's design represents a balance between aesthetic appeal and functional utility. While its exterior maintains a contemporary and appealing look for a value-focused SUV, the interior introduces some unique design choices, most notably the dashboard. The digital instrument cluster, an 8-inch display, is deeply recessed into a glossy black frame, giving it an appearance reminiscent of an older tablet rather than seamlessly integrating with the adjacent 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Despite this, the commitment to physical buttons for frequently used functions is a welcome addition, enhancing user-friendliness.

Dimensionally, the Destinator measures 184.2 inches in length and 72.4 inches in width, making it slightly more compact than the Outlander, yet it is taller at 70 inches. A substantial wheelbase of 110.8 inches ensures a spacious interior, particularly for second and third-row occupants who benefit from dedicated air vents. The seating arrangement is highly flexible, with the second row splitting 40:20:40 and the third row 50:50, both capable of folding flat to maximize cargo capacity. These features collectively underscore the Destinator's promise as a versatile and well-appointed vehicle for family adventures.