To stand out in today’s expanding SUV landscape, you need something bold and different. This time it’s Mitsubishi’s turn to ruffle a few feathers with its all-new Destinator, and on the surface, it could be exactly what South African families are looking for. No, it isn’t a replacement for the ageing Pajero Sport; rather, it’s a familiar mid-sized SUV formula with better-than-expected ground clearance compared to direct rivals.
The Destinator is a 7-seater SUV with a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine, sending power to the front wheels via a CVT. It produces 120kW and 240Nm to dart around town, which, in a car this large, may favour relaxed progress over outright pace. Mitsubishi promised that this isn’t just another SUV, but a tool the family can use to tackle the lesser-travelled roads and experience a true adventure without the faff of hardcore off-road hardware.
To enhance the Destinator’s ability to traverse gravel roads better than its suburban competitors, it does have a few interesting features. Ground clearance is rated at 244mm, which is slightly more than the Subaru Outback, a car praised for its off-road ability. Furthermore, active yaw control keeps the car stable in low-traction conditions by intelligently adjusting power and braking between the inside and outside wheels. No, it’s not a 4×4, but in the world of mid-sized suburban SUVs, the Destinator is likely more capable than most.
Inside, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen is paired with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. Yamaha audio ensures sound quality is up to standard, and customisable ambient lighting adds a modern touch. It also offers six airbags and a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating, meeting modern-day safety expectations.
The Destinator is set to arrive in South Africa in what looks like March and will likely compete against the likes of the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail and Chery Tiggo 8. It’s an interesting blend of economical power and a spacious interior, with the latest in safety technologies and creature comforts. It also makes a strong case in the soft-roading department with a stronger focus on adventurous lifestyles than necessarily rough-and-tumble driving.
What we can say is that Mitsubishi is honing its design language, as the Destinator looks aggressive and capable, whilst not overdoing off-road pretence with unnecessary bash plates and bull bars.
