Mitsubishi Xpander

Xpander Overview

The seemingly never-ending spread and mutation of the COVID-19 virus may somehow freeze the automotive industry during its first appearance. But now that most are starting to realize the essence of owning a personal vehicle, sales are beginning to make a recovery after nineteen months and counting. Here in the Philippines, most people are also aware of how terrible the weather and environment can be, especially in light of the regular heavy rainstorms, searing heatwaves, and the worst traffic imaginable. Most individuals residing here are known for being practical consumers, which puts buyers into perspective to purchase from a reputable carmaker that offers a bang for the buck quality and competent vehicles. Mitsubishi, a Japanese automaker, has long been recognized as one of the most reliable automobile manufacturers in the world.

Also check: Mitsubishi New Xpander 2022

The highly anticipated Xpander debuted in Jakarta on July 24, 2017, after which it earned the company another best-selling vehicle, even so upon its arrival here in the Philippines. The Xpander captured the attention of Filipinos upon its launch in May 2018, and it is still one of Mitsubishi's best-selling vehicles today because of its Montero Sport-like style, value for money, fuel economy efficiency, and safety features. The Xpander also replaced the automaker’s AUV, the Adventure, such that compared to the previous design concept, “Rock Solid,” the Xpander now yields a “Dynamic Shield” fascia which gives it the appearance of solid machinery while still providing a guarantee of safety.

Based on the findings of a new test certified by the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), Mitsubishi claims that the Xpander is the most fuel-efficient by far in its class. To assure impartiality in conducting and acquiring the results, Mr. Francisco F. Reyes, Jr., representative of the AAP, supervised the entire course. This MPV is excellent for those with a large family or those looking for a versatile car that renders a robust workhorse and a comfortable and reassuring driving experience.

Mitsubishi Xpander Interior & Features

The automaker did a decent job of designing an interior with a more-than-bare-minimum look while keeping costs low. The vehicle’s success is due to an even distribution of goodness across all criteria. The interior cabin does not disappoint either.

Surrounding the cabin are plastics which renders a solid feel similar to the switchgear. For the dashboard, it features a pseudo-leather finish and faux stitching. Also, under the infotainment display lies the knobs for air conditioning. The audio and cruise control functionalities are located on the fully adjustable steering wheel. The driving stance is leveled high; thus, technology is based on the notion of “omotenashi,” which translates to hospitality.

Multiple automotive manufacturers around the world have adopted the Japanese hospitality tradition, emerging in a “next-generation cockpit system” centered on a revolutionary type of communication between cars and people. Some other standard features of the cabin include a tachometer, electronic multi-tripmeter, digital clock, and digital odometer.

Comfort & Entertainment

The automaker made sure to deck the Xpander with tech-savvy features that its occupants would most likely appreciate for added comfort and entertainment. Passengers would enjoy connecting their gadgets through standard features such as AUX, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Smartphone Mirroring option. Others include USB, MP3, and GPS navigation.

In addition, the interior cabin boasts a large high-resolution 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system connected to a 2-DIN six speaker system. The range-topper variant of the Xpander is also decked with a backup camera and cruise control.

Xpander Exterior

The Xpander was designed with the automaker's dynamic shield concept in mind. In addition, it boasts design cues in common with Montero Sport’s most recent release. This then allows the MPV to blend in with both the Honda BR-V and Toyota Rush.

With its sleek signature X-shaped front grille flanked by daytime running lights and a modern-looking bumper, the Xpander can surely turn heads. Most MPVs these days are striving to resemble more like SUVs, and clearly, the Xpander managed to conform perfectly. The MPV features a robust SUV-like cladding design and brawny roof rails. For its side profile, it has two lines that accentuate the MPV’s body, flared fenders and blacked-out pillars. What also gives this vehicle an SUV-like aspect is its high placement of DRLs and apron.

The higher trim rides on a set of 16-inch alloy wheels while the lower variants, conversely, comes with 15-inch wheels. An option is also available for the GLS Sport variants where it may be ordered with additional body modifications that render an add-on chin to the front fascia. The Xpander has a length of 4,475 mm, a width of 1,750 mm, a height of 1,695 mm for the base model, and 1,700 mm for the GLX Plus and GLS variants; a wheelbase of 2,775 mm; and a ground clearance of 200 mm for the entry-level variant and 205 mm for the latter variants. To boot, this feature gives you peace of mind when driving in rugged terrain. The Xpander is up for grabs in five colors: Jet Black Mica, Quartz White, Red Metallic, Sterling Silver Metallic, and Titanium Grey.

Passenger & Boot Space

Owing to the 2,840 mm long cabin, the Xpander can hold up to seven passengers. The best of both worlds, with a big interior that can support and provide comfort to a large number of passengers as well as the ability to utilize ample luggage space, are some of the features that entice people to purchase this vehicle. The Xpander offers a generous amount of head and legroom space, even in the third row. For a large household, this is an excellent means for family getaways. Those to occupy the rear seats will also enjoy the comforts of the Xpander, thanks to the automaker’s “omotenashi” notion. The spacious cabin can further be maximized to 1,630-liters worth of cargo capacity by folding down the rear seats.

Mitsubishi Xpander Ride & Handling

The Xpander renders a smooth driving experience both on the highways and on rough terrains. Because it is built to be sturdy and grounded even at greater speeds, it also provides a powerful drive-feel. Owing to its unibody chassis resembling a sedan, this subcompact MPV is more than meets the eye and offers more than the bare minimum, and it boasts a quiet performance along with a decent behavior on off-roads. As for the engine, it can crank up the speed without ever rushing. Apart from that, there are no issues with Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) in any of the variants.

On the other hand, the suspension system of the Xpander includes a Macpherson Strut on the front and a torsion beam setup on the back. Users can attest to why most Filipinos opt for this vehicle as its suspension system allows for a more comfortable experience even while driving on rugged roads.

Xpander Engine & Fuel Consumption

The Xpander is powered by a 1.5-liter, in-line-4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC gasoline engine with Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC). This MPV can generate a maximum of 105 horsepower at 6000 rpm with a peak torque of 141 Nm at 4,000 rpm coupled with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. These figures demonstrate that the Xpander is powerful and never feels underperforming. The MPV’s engine tugs aggressively to 140 kmph when hauling max passengers of seven and pieces of baggage.

The automaker also claimed and proven the Xpander’s fuel efficiency of 22.9 kmpl, and surprisingly this is achieved without sacrificing the vehicle’s performance. This then caters to the preferences of Filipino consumers. Moreover, even though the Xpander has a four-cylinder mill, engine noise and vibration are exceptionally kept to a minimal level.

As of 2021, this impressive MPV offers four variants in the local market — GLX 1.5 2WD M/T, GLX Plus 1.5 2WD A/T, GLS 1.5 2WD AT, and GLS Sport 1.5G 2WD AT. Except for the base model, which comes with a 5-speed manual transmission, all the other variants have 4-speed automatic gearboxes.

Fuel Consumption

The 1.5-liter in-line-4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC gasoline engine produces 105 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 141 Nm at 4,000 rpm when mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. According to the automaker, these figures were stated and proven wherein the Xpander's GLS Sport AT variant has a fuel efficiency of 22.9 kmpl, while the GLX MT, conversely, has a fuel consumption of 21.01 kmpl. Impressively, these are all achieved without compromising the vehicle's performance and so appeals to the desires of Filipinos.

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

Mitsubishi Xpander Braking & Safety

Despite the lack of discs on the back end, the Xpander's breaking setup is one of its most impressive features. The rear tires have 9-inch drum brakes, while the front tires have 15-inch ventilated disc brakes. Not only that, but it also comes with a vacuum booster for better performance.

The Xpander has received a four-star ASEAN NCAP rating, and it promotes its high levels of adult and child protection by featuring ISOFIX tethers to support child seats, two airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic break-force distribution (EBD), hill start assist, traction control, and stability control systems. All of this is remarkable, but its competitors, like the Honda BR-V and Toyota Rush, all achieved a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating.

Xpander Verdict

Is Mitsubishi Xpander a good car?

Filipinos are practical shoppers, and the capacity of a car to provide and deliver is usually what draws them in. Because this vehicle is primarily designed for everyday usage, individuals interested in purchasing this place a high value on the cost-effectiveness of its capabilities. Considering the Xpander renders remarkable fuel economy and performance, not to mention easy access to service centers purchasing this vehicle will not be a financial burden in the long run. The Xpander has a price range of PHP 1.008 Million to PHP 1.128 Million.

Final Words

With a wide range of options and a competitive price, this MPV is an excellent choice for those looking for a cost-effective vehicle to haul a large family or for the daily commute. And although it is not the least affordable in the market, it does barter features suitable for the demands of Filipinos. While it offers comfort, a spacious cabin, and stunning modern looks, the Xpander is decked with safety functionalities that make it ideal for anyone looking for a reliable carrier. As a result, this vehicle will undoubtedly meet or exceed your expectations.

Must Read Article on Xpander

• Mitsubishi Xpander: Which is better, manual or automatic?
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• Mitsubishi Xpander vs Honda BR-V - The better pick