en.Wedoany.com Reported - Mitsubishi Motors has launched the new Outlander Sport hybrid SUV in New Zealand, but this model is unlikely to enter the Australian market in the short term. Known as the Xforce in other markets, the vehicle is positioned in the small SUV segment, competing against models such as the Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, and Honda HR-V.
Due to design regulation restrictions, the Xforce was previously not included in Mitsubishi Australia's introduction plans. The release in the New Zealand market has reignited speculation about the vehicle's potential future entry into Australia. If it were to go on sale there, its hybrid identity would help Mitsubishi avoid potential penalties under future New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES). The hybrid Xforce would complement the petrol-only ASX currently offered in the Australian market.
Currently, Mitsubishi's product lineup in Australia consists almost entirely of petrol and diesel-powered models, with the sole exception being the plug-in hybrid mid-size SUV Outlander. The brand currently only plans to launch one pure electric model, a compact SUV jointly developed with iPhone manufacturer Foxconn.
The Xforce faces stringent entry challenges in Australia, as it is highly likely unable to meet the country's stricter design rules—the very reason the previous generation ASX was discontinued. A Mitsubishi Australia spokesperson stated that the brand had intended to introduce the Xforce, but design rules restricted its market launch.
The New Zealand-spec Outlander Sport is equipped with a hybrid system consisting of a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor. The overseas version produces a maximum power output of 85 kW and peak torque of 255 Nm. The cabin features a 12.3-inch central touchscreen and a digital driver display, with wireless phone charging and a panoramic glass roof as standard. The vehicle will arrive in showrooms for display in the third quarter of 2026.
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