It seems that the market disruptors have done quite a number on the various existing and legacy brands in Mzansi, as almost every launch begins with a complementary rant on how the product being introduced is either going to combat this trend of Chinese alternatives being picked over them or how they couldn't care less. We will let you debate how you feel on this matter, but all we know is that a Japanese automotive brand has introduced a new 7-seater midsize SUV, and they claim that "The brand you may have forgotten about is well and alive."
Known for their impressive off-road capabilities and ruggedness, the brand claims to have a clear evolution with the introduction of the Destinator, as it asserts itself to be more of a lifestyle and urban cruiser that will, of course, be capable on a light scale should you choose to travel off the beaten track. "The all-new Mitsubishi Destinator is unique in the manner in which it combines SUV ability with MPV practicality in its own way, positioning itself as the ideal companion for South African motorists looking for a do-it-all adventure partner."
On the looks front, we must say it is quite good whether you're peeking from the front, side, or even the back. Speaking of looks, the front of the vehicle wears the signature dynamic shield design along with a transparent grille that features a smoked finish and a metallic backing. Here you have these good-looking T-shaped headlights, which have DRLs and indicators integrated all into one thing.
The side profile measures at 4,680 mm length wise, stands at 1,780 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,815 mm but even though it is a 7 seater it doesn't necessarily have that akwardly long nature about most 7 seaters. Some more side features include 18-inch alloy wheels that fill very pronounced wheel arches that have a sliver and black combo cladding.
The rear end is one of the more simple in terms of layout and design, it features the same T shaped taillights design as the front with a simple brand badging and a Destinator tag on the electrically operated tailgate. For colors you can choose from six colors like Black, Grey, Silver, White, Red, Blue.
Step inside of the seater and you find that the whole cabin seating is leather wrapped and some key highlights feature a large 12.3-inch Smartphone-link Display audio system that is paired with an eight-inch digital driver display, Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium audio system (for range topper models), 65 colour ambient lighting in five locations, and a memory height function for the drivers seat.
Interior creature comfort features include a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, a console tray with a wireless charger, console side pockets for both driver and passenger, and a seatback table. This being a 7-seater means that the seats are versatile, as Mitsubishi claims that the second and third rows can be adjusted via a 40:20:40 split or a 50:50 split, respectively. In addition, 25 innovative storage spaces are ready to accommodate everything that a family needs on a daily basis or for a holiday adventure.
And of course you can trust that Mitsubishi maximized on safety as the vehicle has Multi Around View Monitor, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, panoramic sunroof, roof rails, power folding door mirrors, a leather wrapped steering wheel and shifter, Drive mode selector, power adjustable driver’s seat, wireless charger, keyless operation, power remote tailgate and cruise control.
At the heart of the vehicle will sit a 4B40 Gen 2 engine which is a 1.5-litre MIVEC turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine that offers 120kW and 250nm. Power is sent to the front wheels courtesy of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), altogether produced a claimed figure of 7.2 litres per 100km. Each Destinator will come with five driving modes which are Normal, Wet, Gravel, Mud and Tarmac modes.
We then had some time behind the wheel on a short course loop to explore the Destinator on the roads of South Africa. Here we quickly discovered the benefits of the Active Yaw Control which is said to improve the vehicles safe and confident handling on a variety of surfaces. The ride was quite comfortable and did a good job of soaking up the bad surface streets of Jozi, again thanks to the Active Yaw Control and the MacPherson strut front suspension layout in conjunction with a torsion beam rear suspension configuration.
The Mitsubishi Destinator will be offered in two derivatives, wearing Exceed and GLS badging.
Mitsubishi Destinator GLS R489 990
Mitsubishi Destinator Exceed R569 990
Warranty and service plan information
Pricing includes a five-year/unlimited mileage warranty, a five-year/75 000km service plan. Service intervals are scheduled for every 15 000km or 12 months.