Mitsubishi has officially introduced its latest three-row SUV, the all-new Destinator. Unveiled ahead of the 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show, the Destinator is now officially joining Mitsubishi’s lineup as a midsize crossover aimed squarely at energetic families looking for space, comfort and versatility.

The Destinator had its early preview in the Philippines last year in the form of the DST Concept. At the time, many assumed it would be another variant of the Xpander. Instead, Mitsubishi went bigger, both in size and intent. Production will take place in West Java, Indonesia at the Krama Yudha plant, with the vehicle set to roll out not only across Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and Vietnam, but also to regions like South Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.

The Destinator runs on a 1.5-liter MIVEC turbocharged engine, the same 4B40 powerplant used in the Eclipse Cross. It pushes out 163 PS and 250 Nm of torque, tuned for both responsiveness and fuel economy using an Atkinson cycle and a water-cooled intercooler. Power is sent to the front wheels via a CVT, with five drive modes such as Normal, Wet, Gravel, Mud and Tarmac. Mitsubishi has also fitted it with Active Yaw Control, something not usually seen in this segment.

Size-wise, the Destinator is larger than many expected. It’s nearly as big as a Honda CR-V at 4,680 mm long and 1,840 mm wide, and with a 214 mm ground clearance (244 mm without underbody covers), it offers a ride height better suited to rough roads. Approach and departure angles are designed for light off-road use, too, coming in at 21 and 25.5 degrees, respectively.

Much of the DST Concept’s design has carried over. The Destinator’s exterior features a bold front face with Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield design, now featuring an acrylic grille layered over a honeycomb pattern. The shape of the LED headlights and taillights echoes that of the XForce, and it rides on 18-inch wheels with 225/55 tires.

The Destinator follows the same tech-forward approach seen in newer Mitsubishi models. It comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and an 8-inch digital gauge cluster. A clinometer display, similar to the classic Pajero, makes a fun return. The highlight, though, is the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof and 64-color ambient lighting, both firsts for a Mitsubishi. The sunroof controls can be adjusted via the infotainment screen.

Cabin space is generous, with a focus on comfort across all three rows. The second-row seats split 40:20:40 while the third row folds 50:50. Even with the third row up, Mitsubishi says there’s enough space for four gallon-sized water bottles. Each passenger also gets access to USB charging ports and thoughtful storage touches like seatback tables and pockets.

In terms of safety, the Destinator introduces Mitsubishi Motors Safety Sensing, a suite of ADAS features that includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and a multi-around view monitor. Additional conveniences include remote app-based controls for air conditioning and fuel status, and an emergency call feature in case of accidents.

The Destinator will go on sale in Indonesia starting 23 July, the same day it debuts at the auto show. No firm date yet for Philippine release, but it’s on the roadmap.