The B-segment SUV segment in Vietnam is becoming increasingly competitive with the emergence of many new models. The “newcomer” Mitsubishi Xforce has just attracted attention when adjusting the selling price with the highest reduction of 21 million VND, which helps Xforce surpass Kia Seltos to become the cheapest urban SUV model B on the market.
So besides the selling price, what else does the Mitsubishi Xforce GLX have to put pressure on the Kia Seltos 1.6L AT Deluxe. These are both the lowest versions of the 2 models and are in the same price range of 600 million VND.
Xforce strange, Seltos familiar
If in the past, when talking about choosing a car because of its style, most people immediately thought of Korean brands, however, this is no longer true when Japanese car models today have designs that are equally competitive.
The latest model from Mitsubishi is designed in a modern direction with muscular and sporty lines, similar to the XFC concept version introduced at the end of 2022. The rival Kia Seltos also has a strong design but is more angular and somewhat square.
Mitsubishi Xforce has overall dimensions of 4.390 x 1.810 x 1.660 mm (length x width x height), wheelbase of 2.650 mm. The similar measurements on the Kia Seltos are 4.315 x 1.800 x 1.645 mm, 2.610 mm respectively. It can be seen that the parameters of Xforce’s size are all greater than Seltos.
Both models share the same 17-inch rim size, however the tire width on the Seltos is 10 mm larger, and the sidewall is also 6 mm higher. This difference means that the model from Korea gives a smoother feeling when moving over rough roads.
Exterior equipment of the Mitsubishi Xforce. |
In terms of exterior equipment, it is difficult to say which model is better than the other. If the Kia Seltos has fog lights, automatic wipers…, then the Mitsubishi Xforce “scores points” with welcome lights, high brake lights…
Overall, both the Xforce and Seltos follow the direction of a sporty and sturdy high-rise car, but the way Mitsubishi creates shapes for the Xforce brings a fresher feeling than the models in the same segment that are currently on the market.
Xforce focuses on comfort, Seltos aims for driving experience
Mitsubishi targets the Xforce as a practical urban SUV, which is clearly evident as soon as you step into the cockpit. Despite being the lowest version, the Xforce GLX still has push-button start, electronic parking brake with automatic brake hold function, rear seat air vents… In particular, this model also has the ability to adjust the backrest of the rear seat as well as a storage compartment under the front passenger seat.
As for the Seltos, this model is equipped with a mechanical parking brake even on the highest version, which means that the car also does not have an automatic brake hold support system. In return, the standard version of the Kia Seltos is equipped with leather seats, electric steering wheel, soundproof and heat-insulating glass…
The standard Kia Seltos has more power than the standard Mitsubishi Xforce. |
In terms of performance, the Mitsubishi Xforce uses a 1.5L engine (103 horsepower, 141 Nm) combined with a CVT gearbox, while the Kia Seltos 1.6L AT Deluxe is equipped with a 1.6L Gamma engine (121 horsepower, 151 Nm) and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
It can be seen that the power and traction of the Xforce are both inferior to the Seltos, in addition, the CVT gearbox can hardly be compared to the multi-speed gearbox in terms of acceleration capability. In actual experience, the CVT gearbox of the Mitsubishi Xforce still has a virtual gear mechanism, but the acceleration feeling is still not as impressive as the Kia Seltos.
Despite being stronger, the Kia Seltos is more fuel-efficient than its rival. According to the manufacturer’s announcement, the Mitsubishi Xforce gives a result of 6.18 l/100 km on a mixed driving route, while the Seltos is 6.05 l/100 km.
A notable advantage on the Xforce when it comes to handling is the AYC cornering assistance system, this feature helps the car corner more neatly, reducing the risk of understeer. Currently, the Xforce is the only model in the segment with this feature.
Choose Xforce or Seltos?
Mitsubishi Xforce GLX is priced at 599 million VND, Kia Seltos 1.6L AT Deluxe is priced at 604 million VND. The difference of 5 million VND is not too big, so it will certainly make many people hesitate when putting these 2 models on the scale.
The Mitsubishi Xforce will be a worthy choice for those looking for a high-rise urban car that focuses on practicality, comfort for all seating positions, and of course, engine power is not a priority.
The Kia Seltos still has certain amenities even though it is not as diverse as the “new kid on the block” Mitsubishi Xforce. In return, the model from Korea will be considered more by those looking for an exciting car to drive.
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