Mitsubishi has long been an also-ran in the U.S. But in the last couple of years, it is making a resurgence with competitive, interesting vehicles. You can add the 2023 XFC SUV to that list. The XFC is an entirely new vehicle and a new segment for the company to be entering into. It squeezes between the Outlander Sport subcompact and the three-row Outlander full-size SUV. 

Will the Mitsubishi XFC replace another crossover in the lineup?

Before moving ahead with the XFC, we will mention that an all-new Outlander Sport based on the Renault Captur is coming as well. The aging Sport was in need of something, and this rebadged Renault is Mitsubishi’s answer. 

Also, the Sport is a slightly larger version of the Eclipse Cross. One tends to get confused with the other. So the SUV/crossover scorecard from top to bottom will be Outlander, XFC, Outlander Sport, and Eclipse Cross. 

Why does Mitsubishi call this a concept?

Now to the XFC. The images shown are of the concept, but it is a concept in the loosest of terms. This is what the production version will look like, as will the interior. Its fascia is another takeoff of the “Dynamic Shield” design language that will be slowly moving across all lines. In some ways, the grille hints at the last Evo-X grille, angling back from the leading top edge. 

A secondary bumper-like appendage juts out below the grille opening featuring a combination running light and fake duct on each side. The LED headlights and upper running lights refine the bold front-end styling of Outlander’s fascia. 

Do the front and back visually tie together?

At the rear, the haunches are emphasized with a sharp break, while the top looks to be floating above those fenders. While the “concept” has no door handles or mirrors, the production version will. The elimination of these two items is why Mitsubishi can call this a concept. 

In many ways, the rear end mimics the front, minus the grille. The taillights and jutting valance are similar to what’s in front. We also expect the wheels will see production as well. 

How many screens?

Inside, an attractive cabin highlights dual screens taking up the majority of the dash. And they’re placed on the dash like a computer pad. While the two-tone upholstery theme looks great, that won’t show up in production. The breakup of the door panels and textures look intriguing, especially highlighted with chamfered edges.  

Because this is a concept, powertrain, and 2WD/4WD options are not available. And if or when the U.S. gets it is also murky. The company debuted the XFC concept this week at the Vietnam Motor Show. Production versions will be available in most Asian markets this coming spring. Then, an electrified model will be “rolled out in regions outside of ASEAN” sometime in the future, according to Mitsubishi president and CEO Takao Kato.

Between now and whenever the XFC does enter the U.S., Mitsubishi may substitute it for one of the current crossovers sold here. Without more distinction between all of them, it might be easier for consumers to drop whatever comes close to a current model. Either way, the XFC will continue Mitsubishi’s rising attention in America.