A new budget hybrid SUV from Mitsubishi has just arrived in New Zealand, but don’t expect to see it in Australia any time soon.
According to Sydney-based Carsguide Australia, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, known as the Xforce elsewhere, is a popular option in the small SUV segment and is a rival for the Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona and Honda HR-V.
The Xforce was not on the radar for Australia due to design regulations, but its New Zealand announcement reignites rumours for a future Down Under.
The Xforce meets Mitsubishi Motors Corporation’s ‘challenge for change’ in style and performance with Seiji Watanabe, general manager design, enthused about this ongoing commitment to Japanese auto excellence.
“In retrospect, we have been infusing new values into our products for more than a century,” Watanabe added.
“In 1917, we manufactured the first mass-produced passenger car in Japan – the Mitsubishi Model TA. Then, In the 1960s and the 1970s, we introduced innovative cars such as the Colt series – the Galant and the Lancer. We also marketed the Pajero as a rugged cross-country 4WD vehicle which could stand in as an urban SUV.”
Then, in 2009, Mitsubishi introduced the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle, the i-MiEV which demonstrated innovative technology and design.
“Now, as a leader in PHEV and 4WD technology, today’s Outlander Aspire (tested here) continues to evolve with a tough and robust design,” Watanabe enthused. “It’s a brand that inspires drivers to take on any adventure with passion and is recognised by professionals for its functionality.”
The PHEV Aspire is a refined, all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid SUV offering a good, practical electric range, improved interior quality, and as expected, a hefty price starting at $63,790 before on-roads.
The Aspire is powered by a 2.4-litre petrol engine that produces 98 kW and 195 Nm of torque, paired with two electric motors, one front and one rear, providing a combined output of 185 kW and 450 Nm.
Now with greater battery capacity, the Aspire gives a fully electric range of 103 km, backed by the security of a hybrid petrol engine so you can go even further with zero tailpipe emissions
The plug-in EV can fast charge with a standard Type 2 AC connector at available charging stations. Plug into any power outlet or charge as you drive with regenerative braking or by selecting ‘charge’ mode.
The Aspire’s interior has been significantly upgraded, featuring quilted leather seats, dual 12.3-in.screens for multimedia and digital dash, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, and an eight-speaker Yamaha audio system. Extra features include 20-in. alloy wheels, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power-adjustable driver seat, head-up display, and power tailgate
The Aspire comes with a comprehensive active safety suite, including auto emergency braking (front and rear), lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention alert, traffic sign recognition, lane keep and traffic jam assist and auto high-beams.
While many mid-life model updates prioritise styling and gadgetry, the updated 2026 Outlander takes a more subtle, but meaningful approach. Most of the hard work is under the skin.
The company’s Australian and Japanese research and development teams worked together to refine the Outlander’s ride and handling balance. This included a new suspension tune developed on roads in both countries. As a result, new components include electric power steering mapping, recalibrated front and rear shock absorbers and a smaller diameter front sway bar.
Eight-way power adjustable front seats can be customised and memorised to suit every shape, size and swagger. Heated seats in the front and second row provide welcome winter warmth, while independent tri-zone climate control allows everyone to ride their own way.
Outlander’s power tailgate opens simply by placing a foot under its rear bumper. Lift height is adjustable to prevent contact with low garage doors and ceilings, while a wide rear frame and deep cavity easily accommodate bulky luggage and equipment.
A high-resolution widescreen 12.3 in. full digital driver display continuously updates the Outlander’s status and can be customised to showcase navigation, all-wheel control information and audio entertainment options.
The transparent driver’s 10.8 in. head up display can be configured to provide additional information in clear view of the road ahead.
Meanwhile, Yamaha’s musical craftsmanship and Mitsubishi Motors auto engineering come together as a double act. An Outlander ‘first’, this exclusive audio system delivers concert quality sound on the road, and off the beaten track. Surrounded by speakers, every seat in the cabin will enjoy Dynamic Yamaha Sound. The show goes on with complete Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto connectivity. Wireless smartphone charging also means the entertainment or hands-free conversations never have to stop.
Mitsubishi says it’s here for the long run. That’s why it offers Australia’s first 10-year warranty with 10 years capped price servicing, plus 10 years roadside assist.
