Based on the XM Concept revealed at 2016 GIIAS, the production-spec Mitsubishi MPV will take on Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Avanza and Honda Mobilio
Mitsubishi showcased the XM Concept at the 2016 GIIAS (Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show) last August. Its production version will be manufactured at the Japanese manufacturer’s new factory in Indonesia and is likely to be launched sometime this August at the same motoring exhibition. Bookings are said to commence from July onwards.
With the MPV bodystyle and room to offer space for seven occupants, it has been reported to compete against the likes of Suzuki Ertiga, Honda Mobilio, Daihatsu Grand New Xenia and Toyota Grand New Avanza. Courtesy of Autonetmaz.net, a test prototype was snapped at Bandung in Indonesia and it reveals several similarities the road-going version and the XM concept crossover will have.
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The heavily camouflaged test mule appeared to be in same size as the concept. It features flared wheel arches, sculpted side and rear profiles as in the conceptual version. The alloys could be of 15-inch in size and the front wheels were equipped with disc brakes. The overall body shape seems to have carried over from the concept as well with bulged out character lines and shapely rear end emphasising a muscular stance.
Looking to grab a fair share of market dominance of the Avanza, Mitsubishi could employ a 1.5-litre engine. Since Nissan bought stakes in Mitsubishi, many reports have emerged of potential mergers and technology sharing. Both Nissan and Mitsubishi were speculated to be sharing plug-in and autonomous driving technologies in order to bring down the soaring development costs.
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More importantly, both Japanese brands were said to share a multi-purpose vehicle for the South-east Asian markets as well. Nissan is expected to pump in cash for the Indian arm of Mitsubishi. Despite the latter’s popularity in the market, the lack of products in the lineup over the years have certainly taken the toll on its market share.
Nissan Evalia and Renault Lodgy are two MPVs facing hard times in the segment led by Maruti’s Ertiga. Perhaps, if Mitsubishi fancy its chances and introduce an XM concept-based MPV with an aggressive price range, parts localisation and underpinnings from the Lodgy, will it be a hit in the market?
Spy Source: Autonetmagz.net