Mitsubishi Motors PH building up inventory for 2024 Xforce launch

First batch of 2024 Mitsubishi Xforce units on the way to PH

The Philippine market is a key one for Mitsubishi Motors. We are the market where they enjoy a strong second position and significant market share (17.75% in CY2023) relative to the leader; that leader being Toyota, if you’re wondering.

The next few years will be critical for Mitsubishi Motors Philippines, as the arrival of many new players in the local market is changing things up along with the launches of many new models from established brands. Then there’s the way Toyota is casting an even larger net by entering more market segments with new nameplates. So what is Mitsubishi to do? They bring in the Xforce.

We’ve already reported that Mitsubishi is launching the Xforce in the Philippines, and there are already a few examples being spotted on car carriers and even one that seemed to be out for a promotional photoshoot. But the big question is this: how many units are they bringing in, and how many variants?

We can now answer that question, at least in part.

Based on the data we got, there are going to be two variants for the first batch. Mitsubishi ordered the Xforce 1.5L 2WD CVT in the “M” grade, as well as the Xforce 1.5L 2WD CVT in “P” grade. We can’t really figure out what they mean exactly, as the data says both vehicles come with 18” wheels, 225/50/R18 tires, a 104 PS 1.5L engine, and a CVT. We would make the guess that M would be mid-grade, while P would be Premium or the high-end model.

The data shows that the M grade, 165 units were exported to the Philippines in April. In the same period, 204 units of the P grade were also brought in by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines. So in total, there are 369 up for grabs.

369 units don’t seem like much but consider that those are just the first units. We expect much higher numbers when the data from May comes in, as well as for June. Mitsubishi originally planned the launch of the Xforce for June, but it is quite likely that they will push back that launch to July. The probable reason (if they do push back) is so they can build up inventory.

There’s no use launching a model if there are insufficient units to satisfy customer demand. And given the generally strong reception of Filipinos to Mitsubishi, we expect a long queue, especially for something so new. Customers have been impressed with the solid ride and drive that the Xpander offers, and they can expect something similar (if not better, thanks to the CVT versus a 4-speed A/T in the Xpander) with the Xforce.