By Malusi Msomi

Mitsubishi South Africa has expanded its SUV range with the introduction of the new Destinator, a seven-seater aimed at buyers looking for practicality without stretching into premium SUV territory.

Available in GLS and Exceed trim levels, the Destinator enters a segment where value, space, and usability matter more than outright performance. We recently spent a short time behind the wheel of the range-topping Exceed derivative to see what Mitsubishi’s newest family SUV has to offer.

Styling

The Destinator follows Mitsubishi’s familiar SUV design language. Up front, it features the brand’s signature grille design, flanked by T-shaped LED lighting. Along the sides are 18-inch dark grey alloy wheels, while a rear spoiler rounds off the styling package.

Overall, the design is clean and straightforward. It has a traditional SUV shape without relying on overly aggressive styling elements, which should appeal to family buyers looking for something understated.

Interior

Inside, the Destinator focuses on practicality and ease of use. The GLS model features fabric seats and soft-touch materials, while the Exceed upgrades to synthetic leather upholstery, a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital driver display, a panoramic sunroof, and a Yamaha sound system.

The cabin layout is intuitive, with clear displays and controls that are easy to familiarise yourself with. Second-row space is generous, providing good comfort for adult passengers.

As expected in a vehicle of this size, the third row is best suited to children or shorter journeys, although it remains useful when the need arises.

Driving impressions

Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 120kW and 250Nm. Drive is sent to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

On the road, the powertrain feels smooth and refined. It is not a vehicle that prioritises outright performance, but it delivers adequate power for daily driving and family duties.

The CVT does a decent job of keeping the engine within its power band, while overall refinement appears well suited to the Destinator’s role as a comfortable family SUV.

Conclusion

Based on our initial impressions, the Mitsubishi Destinator appears to tick many of the boxes that family buyers look for in a seven-seater.

It offers a practical cabin, useful equipment levels, decent second-row space, and a smooth turbocharged powertrain. While the third row is best reserved for occasional use, the overall package appears well positioned for buyers looking for an affordable and versatile family SUV.

Pricing

Mitsubishi Destinator 1.5T GLS CVT – R489,990

Mitsubishi Destinator 1.5T Exceed CVT – R569,990

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.