Mitsubishi Destinator

The Mitsubishi Destinator’s internal layout balances functionality and class-leading comfort. Inside, it offers a spacious cabin with the brand’s ‘Horizontal Axis Dashboard Design’, which maximizes space and improves the driver’s view on the road. However, its third row space could be improved to accommodate tall and larger passengers more effectively. Higher trims feature seats that are equipped with a two-tone synthetic leather upholstery for a classier and more premium feel. 

All variants have a center floor console (with cooling function for higher variants), 2nd row foldable tables behind the driver and front passenger seats, an under-seat tray on the front passenger’s side, as well as a 12V accessory socket. Higher trims also have a wireless mobile phone charger for added convenience. In addition, a high-tech 8-inch LCD meter is given to drivers of higher variants to effectively monitor their current driving conditions, while drivers of the base model get the 4.2-inch TFT color LCD version. The GT and GLS variants come with a 3-spoke leather-wrapped power steering wheel that feels good-to-the-touch.

Furthermore, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines really went all out with the Destinator’s technological features inside. The car’s remote and safeguard services can be accessed and controlled through the Mitsubishi Connect phone application. Meanwhile, for quality entertainment and information accessibility, the SUV’s higher variants come with a touchscreen 12.3-inch smartphone link display audio system that has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, Tuner, and USB ports, while the base variant has the 8-inch version. 

Aside from these, the top variant, GT, has an 8-speaker yamaha sound system for a more premium acoustics all-around, while the mid and base variants have the 6-speaker and 4-speaker versions respectively. Its interior comes with a 64-colour ambient lighting system for the GT variant.

The Mitsubishi Destinator measures 4,680 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width, and 1,780 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,815 mm. Additionally, it also has an impressive minimum ground clearance of 214 mm for an SUV that is slightly smaller than the Montero Sport.

Looks-wise, similar to the XForce and the Triton, the Destinator also sports the brand’s ‘Dynamic Shield Fascia’, giving this SUV an eye-catching futuristic look. It is given T-shaped LED headlamps and tail lamps, both of which showcase Mitsubishi’s modern exterior styling. Its side view features a blend of curves and sharp character lines, giving the SUV’s silhouette a balance of ruggedness and sophistication. Meanwhile, at the rear, it comes with a ‘Hexaguard Horizon’ design that enhances the vehicle’s stability and, at the same time, features a powerful stance on the road. 

Higher variants run on two-toned 18-inch alloy wheels, while the base runs on gray-colored counterparts. The top variant, GT, comes with a panoramic sunroof for natural air ventilation and better lighting, as well as hands-free power tailgate for added convenience and easier loading and unloading of cargo.

The Mitsubishi Destinator employs a robust suspension setup that maximizes stability and driving dynamics. It uses a McPherson Strut with Coil Spring and Stabilizer at the front, while a Torsion Beam at the rear. Although it is slightly smaller than the Montero Sport, its off-roading capability can contend with the latter’s, courtesy of its suspension setup. The suspension setup partnered with the turbocharged engine with five drive modes enable the Destinator to effectively absorb road bumps and imperfections and grip on slippery and steep roads with ease. Consequently, this leads to a ride that maintains comfort and prevents motion sickness (or in Filipino, that hilo factor).  

The Mitsubishi Destinator is equipped with a 1.5 L, Turbocharged, 4 in-line gasoline engine that has a maximum power output of 163 PS and a maximum torque 250 Nm. The engine is paired with continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is equipped with five distinct drive modes: Normal, Wet, Gravel, Tarmac, and Mud (for higher trims). 

Engineered for versatility, the drive modes allow the Destinator to adjust its performance to changing road conditions, making it well-suited for both Philippine roads and the wider ASEAN region. In addition, thanks to its drive modes, you will be able to pass through flooded roads and hit corners on rough terrain with ease. Overall, the Destinator has improved throttle response, non-existent turbo lags, and a great fuel economy, leading to a supple and practical cruising experience in the city.

Earning a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating, the Mitsubishi Destinator is one of the safest vehicles that you will currently buy in the Philippine market. Its equipment with the brand’s ADAS, Mitsubishi Motors Safety Sensing (MMSS), is largely credited for its NCAP rating. This ADAS includes blind spot warning system and rear cross traffic alert for the GT and GLS variants. The top variant also comes with a forward collision mitigation system, leading car departure notification, automatic high beam, and adaptive cruise control. 

The SUV is also equipped with standard safety and security features. Highlighted among these is the brand’s ‘Active Yaw Control’, which helps the Destinator remain stable on slippery and curved roads and responsive during quick emergency maneuvering. Additionally, all variants' brake setup is protected by an anti-locking system and an assistance feature. The SUV utilizes discs for front and rear braking.

The Mitsubishi Destinator is a great middle ground for buyers who want something more premium than the Xpander or XForce but more affordable than the Montero Sport. It combines the light, dynamic feel of a crossover with the durability and off-road capability of a mid-size SUV, making it one of Mitsubishi’s most versatile offerings at the present time.