The Japanese sports car manufacturer, Mitsubishi has introduced the world to its all-new concept of a 7-seater MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), dubbed the Mitsubishi XM at the ongoing Indonesia International Auto Show. This concept MPV will enter the production in October 2017 at company’s new facility in Bekasi, West Java, Indonesia.
Mitsubishi describes the XM as “toughness of an SUV with the versatility of an MPV”. As the name of Mitsubishi XM reflects itself, letter ‘X’ stands for crossover while the ‘M’ indicates MPV. Interesting, isn’t it? At a first sight, the XM concept looks much identical to the eX concept which was uncovered in late 2015. But a closer inspection reveals a host of distinctive design elements. Most noteworthy, the XM concept MPV is slightly larger than the eX concept.
Having a look at the appearance, the front fascia of the concept MPV features company’s latest ‘Dynamic Shield’, quite inspired from the eX concept. Other body styling features include large air dams, sleek grille, a heavily sloping roof with rails and sculpted wheels arches, while the rear profile of the concept has been kept a secret.
Besides the front and side profile of the concept, nothing has been revealed by the company. Though, it is expected that the production-spec version will come with all the current generation’s technology features and ample space for 7 occupants. Beneath the front edge, it is likely to feature an all-electric powertrain. And would come with the all-wheel drive system as Mitsubishi says the XM delivers ‘high all-terrain performance’.
The SUV-cum-MPV styling and the seven seating arrangement put the XM MPV against the Honda BR-V. We can expect the global debut of the production-ready XM MPV in the middle of 2018. As far as concern of the India launch of XM MPV, it doesn’t seem to happen anytime soon. It is only the Pajero which is holding the grip in the Indian market for the Mitsubishi.
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