Mitsubishi Xpander scores 4-star rating at NCAP crash test

MANILA: The Mitsubishi Xpander is presently one of the top-selling MPVs in the Philippines and it has gained this status for its efficiency in every department. The seven-seater car is stylish, comfortable, and powerful, all of this, without compromising much on the affordability quotient.

The ASEAN NCAP recently conducted a crash safety test on the 2018 Mitsubishi Xpander and came up with the conclusion that it is adequately safe. The MPV gained an overall 71.66 rating points. This rating managed to get the MPV a fulfilling 4-star, which means, it covers all the basic safety parameters including AOP (Adult Occupant Protection), COP (Child Occupant Protection), and SATs (Safety Assist Technologies).

The crash test model was the Standard MT GLS variant, which scored 39.08 points for AOP, 18.69 for COP, and 13.89 for SATs. The base variant of the Mitsubishi Xpander has dual SRS airbags (driver and front passenger), ABS along with electronic brakeforce distribution, vehicle immobilizer, ISOFIX, and electronic door locks.

It is powered by a 1.5-litre engine which is capable of making a maximum power of 105 bhp at 6,000 RPM along with a peak torque of 141 Nm at 4,000 RPM. The power is sent down to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission gearbox.

Presently, the 2018 Mitsubishi Xpander has a pretty good grip on the MPV market but would be facing stiff competition from the recently launched 2018 Toyota Rush. The latter also underwent safety test and performed pretty well, better than Xpander.