Mitsubishi just released images and information about its forthcoming 2024 compact SUV ahead of its reveal on August 10. Set to be shown next week at the 2023 Indonesia International Auto Show, some things we now know, but other things, like what it will be called, are still under wraps. Generally, the design follows its XFC Concept from last year. 

Let’s start with the engine. Though no hybrid or EV version will be available, power comes from a 1.5-liter inline-four, with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) spinning the front wheels. What you may notice is what looks to be a lift, giving the SUV 8.7 inches of ground clearance. 

How small is the Mitsubishi compact SUV?

Dimensionally, the small SUV is similar to the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, except in the length department. The Eclipse Cross is about seven inches shorter. The Mazda CX-5 is also similar but longer, too. With its size so close to the Eclipse Cross, it would make for an attractive replacement, but Mitsubishi is still mum about target markets outside of Asia. 

Though no shots of the interior are in this photo dump, we have the XFC Concept interior to view as a guide. Taking from it, there is a long side-by-side screen that ends just past the center console. Most other controls are part of the console’s layout, which looks clean and uncluttered. 

Will the Mitsubishi compact SUV be sold in the U.S.?

For now, this new Mitsubishi won’t make it across the Pacific to the U.S. But the automaker says that based on its popularity in Asia, it may offer it in other parts of the world. And again, it looks like a potential Eclipse Cross replacement here in the U.S. Time will tell on that score. 

The Eclipse Cross has never been a barn burner in the U.S. Yearly sales hovered around 10,000 units over the past several years, with the exception of 2019. Then it saw a bump to almost 20,000 sold. 

When does production begin?

But this is in contrast to the Mazda CX-5 compact SUV, which has seen sales reach over 180,000 yearly since 2018. And globally, the CX-5 hits over 350,000 most years. So with the right product and features, Mitsubishi’s new SUV can hit much better numbers. We’ll be better able to judge if it has the goods to see better numbers on August 10. That is also when Mitsubishi will unveil its eK X EV electric car for the first time, according to motor1.

Production of the small SUV is set to begin about now at Mitsubishi’s Krama Yudha Indonesia assembly plant. Deliveries will start in November.