Mitsubishi Xpander AP4 will try to keep the racing spirit alive

MANILA: Remember the rally avatar of the Mitsubishi Xpander that was displayed at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in May, earlier this year? Yes, it was the very Xpander that sports the suffix AP4. The Japanese automaker has now showcased the stunning looking MPV at the 2019 Gaikindo Indonesia International Motor Show (GIIAS) Developed by Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Sales Indonesia (MMKSI), the rally-ready Xpander will hit the rally trails in the latter part of 2019.

It will be Rifat Sungkar, the Mitsubishi Motors Indonesia product ambassador and national Indonesian rally driver who will be driving the Mitsubishi Xpander AP4 in the rally. The Japanese MPV will compete with the likes of Mazda2, Suzuki Swift, and Toyota Yaris. Yes, the competition seems like an unfair affair, however, due to the strict regulations that regulate the MPVs drivetrain and minimum weight, the fight will be a fair play. In case you’re wondering, Mitsubishi has not revealed any details about the mechanicals on the Xpander AP4.

The AP4 rally cars are generally powered by either a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine or a 1.6-litre EP6 engine that has been seen on the likes of the MINI Cooper and Peugeot. The racing teams have a choice of going with either a manual transmission or a sequential 5-speed gearbox. The ECUs on all the cars are also regulated.

Going by the rumours and speculations, the Mitsubishi Xpander AP4 might be housing the 1.5-litre 4A91 motor. The mill, however, will be needed to be modified to become a 1.6-litre unit to adhere to the ordinances. If this engine comes to life by any chance, we would love Mitsubishi to put the same motor on the future production models of the MPV.

“This car is indeed an MPV, but it has the chassis and character of the Mitsubishi Evo so I feel this car has the right character to be used as an AP4 rally car”, said Rifat Sungkar, who will be driving the hot Xpander at the AP4 rally.

Also Read:- Production of Mitsubishi Xpander in Vietnam by 2020