Big, daring and constructed with household life in thoughts, the Mitsubishi Destinator has a transparent mission: to make journeys really feel simply as rewarding because the vacation spot. Blending area, sensible know-how and trendy consolation with Mitsubishi’s popularity for reliability and worth for cash, it actually makes a powerful first impression. We additionally had the chance to take it for a brief drive at launch, giving us an early style of what this seven-seater SUV brings to the desk.
Visually, the Destinator attracts on a monolithic design language that feels up to date. The entrance finish is dominated by a contemporary tackle the dynamic protect design, that includes a smoked, clear grille with metallic accents that elevate its presence. T-shaped LED headlights and tail lights create a particular signature, integrating daytime working lights, indicators and place lamps into one cohesive look. Strong fender strains and 18-inch alloy wheels add to its muscular stance, whereas the rear stays clear and sturdy, with wraparound LED tail lights flowing neatly into a big tailgate.
Inside, practicality takes centre stage. The cabin accommodates seven passengers throughout three rows, with versatile seating configurations of 40:20:40 break up within the second row and a 50:50 break up within the third.
The design theme inside revolves round gravitas and dynamism, and it comes collectively in a clear, trendy structure. A monolithic show anchors the dashboard, supported by intuitive controls and considerate ergonomics.
In the Exceed fashions, a 12.3-inch Smartphone-link show audio system pairs with an 8-inch digital driver show to kind an built-in panel. Connecting to Android Auto is wi-fi, so no want to hold cables when heading for household locations. A Yamaha sound system delivers immersive audio, including an additional layer of enjoyment to driving.
A panoramic sunroof opens up the cabin, whereas dual-zone computerized air-conditioning retains passengers blissful, no matter the place they’re seated. A wi-fi charging tray, console storage, and a seatback desk add comfort. Ambient lighting, adjustable throughout 65 colors, permits occupants to tailor the temper, whereas a hands-free energy tailgate makes loading and unloading simple.
A 1.5-litre MIVEC turbocharged petrol engine produces 120 kW and 250 Nm, delivered to the entrance wheels by way of constantly variable transmission. The result’s clean and responsive efficiency, with a claimed gasoline consumption of seven.2 litres per 100km. A forty five-litre gasoline tank is nicely suited to each day by day commutes and longer street journeys.
Exceed derivatives add additional versatility with 5 selectable driving modes: Normal, Wet, Gravel, Mud and Tarmac.
Safety has clearly been prioritised, with a complete suite of superior driver help methods and 6 airbags included as customary. This robust security bundle has earned the Destinator a five-star score within the 2025 ASEAN NCAP testing programme, underlining its family-friendly credentials.
The vary will include GLS and Exceed derivatives, with the entry-level mannequin providing a beneficiant checklist of options. The Exceed builds on this with extra premium touches similar to a multi-around view monitor, blind spot warning and rear cross site visitors alert.
Following a brief drive at launch, the Mitsubishi Destinator left a constructive early impression. It is a sensible automobile for household locations.
* Model vary and pricing
Mitsubishi Destinator GLS R489,990
Mitsubishi Destinator Exceed R569,990
Pricing features a five-year/limitless mileage guarantee, a five-year/75 000km service plan. Service intervals are scheduled for each 15 000km or 12 months.
* Sheryl Goldstuck is normal supervisor of World Wide Worx and editor of GadgetWheels. Follow her on Bluesky on @crazycatbuzz.bsky.social.