Mitsubishi Xpander

Overview

The Mitsubishi Xpander received a lot of hype before its launch in the country. With the kind of reception that it has received post-launch, the hype seems to be well deserved. The idea behind the Xpander was conceived in the form of the XM Concept that first broke into the scene in 2017. Its futuristic styling and MPV-Crossover like shape were indeed very exciting. Since then the wait was excruciating. Having launched in Indonesia before it was launched in the Philippines, it is already set to become the bestselling Mitsubishi vehicle in the country. Fitting in nicely with the Honda BR-V and the Toyota Rush, this B segment MPV comes in four different variants: GLX M/T, GLX Premium A/T, GLS and GLS Sport. Having already won Indonesia’s car of the year award (in April no less) this MPV is bound to shake up the existing crowded MPV market in the Philippines.

Interior & Features

The interior does a sufficient enough job of not looking too cheap while keeping costs low. Plastics are abundant but they lend a solid feel as does the switchgear. Center console sports a large high resolution 7” touchscreen infotainment system, hooked to a 2 DIN 6 speaker system. This comes with all the normal connectivity options including Bluetooth, GPS navigation and Easy Link for smartphone connectivity. The air conditioner has physical knobs right underneath the infotainment display. The fully adjustable steering wheel has controls for audio and cruise control. Driving position is high and the view outside is great. But it’s the rear seats that have been given special attention, thanks to Mitsubishi’s omotenashi principle. Meaning “hospitality”, it emphasizes on providing comfort for all passengers. The second row can slide to create more leg room. They also tumble forward for easy access to the third row. The second-row seats also come with a large armrest, which folds into the backrest when not in use. Both the back rows come with their own 12V power outlets and AC vents mounted on the roof. Best of all is the cargo space inside. The Xpander is the first in its class to come with a flat luggage floor. Both the third and second rows can fold flat to create 1630L of space. Even with the third row up, storage space is abundant. There are many small storage pockets hidden away too. With 2840 mm long cabin, the Xpander is the ideal MPV for seating 4 to 7 people.

Exterior

Pretty much all the new MPV models want to look more like SUVs. The Xpander is no exception. It beautifully pulls off the SUV-MPV mishmash. The front obviously pulls the best looks for the Xpander. To answer that question gnawing in the back of your mind – the headlight is that huge shiny squarish shape in the bumper. The signature X shaped Shield grille blends flawlessly with the sleek LED DRLs and cuts a very dynamic and sharp profile. The high placement of the DRLs combined with the high ground clearance at 205 mm and the apron create an SUV like appearance. It also gives more confidence to tackle rough terrain. The side profile is characterized by two bold body lines, flared fenders and blacked out pillars. There are 15” or 16” swanky 5 spoke dual tone alloys wearing 205/55 tires, depending on the variant. The kinked rear window gets its own small accent piece, connecting it with the rear. The rear profile, by comparison, is pretty tame. There are pillar mounted tail lights that create an L shape when lit up. The body lines in the rear give it a frowning expression. On the roof, there is a small spoiler with integrated brake light. At 4475 (L) X 1750 (W) X 1700 (H) mm, it is slightly larger than the Toyota Rush.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

All variants come equipped with a 1.5L MIVEC DOHC inline 4 cylinder 16-Valve fuel injected engine that produces a maximum power output of 105 horsepower at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 141 Nm at 4000 rpm. The engine is punchy and never feels low on power. Meant to haul 7 people and their luggage, the Xpander’s engine pulls strongly to 140 kmph. The transmission has two options: 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Noise and vibration levels are very comfortable inside the cabin. Drive goes to the front unlike its competitors like the Toyota Rush, but it should still be pretty effortless to drive in urban areas. Turning radius is also decent at 5.2m.

If you are planning to buy rush over xpander we suggest you to check this Mitsubishi Xpander vs Toyota Rush comparison before taking decision.

Braking & Safety

The Mitsubishi Xpander has a 4-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating thanks to Mitsubishi’s proprietary RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) unibody construction. There is ABS with EBD along with Emergency Stop Signal system that flashes the hazard lights on sudden braking. The topmost GLS variant gets additional Hill Start Assist, Traction control, and Vehicle Stability Assist as well. There are airbags for the driver and the front passenger. Brakes are 15” inch ventilated discs at the front and 9” drums at the rear. ISOFIX also comes as standard. It should, however,r be noted that both the Honda BR-V and the Toyota Rush have 5 star ASEAN NCAP ratings.