The Mitsubishi XPANDER was launched in Malaysia during the dark period of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when wearing masks were still mandatory in public places (they are still recommended). Though initial showroom activity was limited, the 7-seater crossover MPV developed specially for ASEAN markets found a niche that it could grow in.
Sales steadily grew as more people appreciated its practicality, coupled with well known Mitsubishi Motors reliability, and over 4 years, 40,000 units – all assembled locally – have been sold nationwide. That has placed the XPANDER right at the top of the crossover MPV segment (non-national brands).
But at a time when there are new models appearing in the market every month, a model that has been around some years can see its appeal diminished. So Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has upgraded the XPANDER with new features and some cosmetic changes to freshen the appearance as well.
In terms of the design, it seems that today’s XPANDER looks more appealing than before. The Dynamic Shield ‘face’ gives a bold look and there is a reprofiled bumper with the skidplate having a more 3D appearance.
The headlights are also revised with a distinct T-shape and with the XPANDER Plus (one of two versions offered), the illumination is by LEDs which give stronger lighting and are also more lasting.
At the rear, there are also new lighting units and with a spoiler mounted on the trailing edge of the roof, along with a reprofiled bumper (with silver accents, like the front). LED brake lights have been installed and the advantage of LEDs is that they activate more quickly than conventional bulbs. This means drivers behind can be alerted a split-second earlier and that can make a difference when you consider how far a car can travel even 30 km/h (8.3 metres every second).
The machine-finished alloy wheels have a new duo-tone design and are sized 17 inches in diameter, with broad 205/55 tyres as standard.
There are no technical changes to the powertrain which is a proven 1.5-litre MIVEV engine producing 105 ps/141 Nm and delivered to the front wheels via a trusty torque-converter type automatic transmission.
While there are no changes to the drivetrain, the suspension has received some revisions, specifically at the rear. The cylinder size of the rear shock absorber has been increased by 5 mm, a difference which is said to improve comfort and driveability.
Like SUVs, the driver has a commanding position in the XPANDER as the seat is high up. At the same time, the vehicle too has generous ground clearance which is 20 mm more than before. This raises the ground clearance to 225 mm (best in class) which should be welcome in these days of flash floods. The high clearance is also helpful on rough roads, protecting the underside from unnecessary damage.
Like other Mitsubishi models, the XPANDER’s structure uses the automaker’s patented RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) construction system for rigidity and strength, so the occupants should be well protected in the event of an accident.
There are also frontal airbags to reduce injuries in frontal impacts and a head impact protection structure as well. And Mitsubishi Motors doesn’t forget other road-users too as the frontal design also takes into account collisions with pedestrians and tries to minimise injuries.
It’s always better to avoid an accident, of course, and to help the driver do so, there are a number of active safety systems like ABS, stability control, traction control, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution. The parking brake is now electronically activated by pulling up on a small tab, which requires minimal effort.
There is an all-round monitor that shows the driver all sides of the vehicle (even from above) which will greatly help when parking. This is only in the XPANDER PLUS, while the XPANDER has only a rearview camera.
Also with the XPANDER PLUS are standard digital video recorders (DVRs) at the front and rear. Both cameras will constantly record the front and rear views while driving. These recordings will be helpful in cases where there are disputes over incidents, especially if someone rams the rear end.
Changes and additions are move evident inside the MPV which has been given a more ‘atas’ feel with softer leathered pads and real stitching. The air-conditioning system is now digital (in place of rotary controls), allowing more precise selection of temperatures. As before, there is a blower mounted on the ceiling to carry cool air all the way to the back. The fan speed can be adjusted to 4 levels by the rear passengers.
The 9-inch touchscreen on the dashboard from which the driver can manage the infotainment system now has Apple Car Play & Android Auto. This allows connectivity with smartphones that have the apps and brings many of the apps to the big screen.
Also new are the steering wheel controls (for audio and cruise control) and those who have a smartphone which can be charged wirelessly will be happy to find a charging pad in a compartment below the ventilation controls. If you don’t have wireless charging, there are 2 USB ports in front and another 2 at the rear, plus 12V sockets front and rear as well.
The instrument panel is the same as before and includes an Eco Assist feature which encourages the driver to drive economically by scoring the driving efficiency. For some drivers, this may be a challenge which they will try to do well in, thereby saving fuel on each journey.
There is also a Rest Reminder in the multi-information display. This is to remind the driver to take a break on long journeys, which is always advisable to avoid drowsiness that could affect driving safety. It’s common in the more expensive models but rare in this price range. The reminder can be set in 30-minute intervals from 1 hour to 4 hours.
The 7 persons who can be seated in the XPANDER will have lots of their own stuff and there are lots of storage spaces around the cabin to store everything and also cups and bottles. There’s even a sliding tray under the front passenger’s seat and a compartment in the floor of the boot. A nice touch are the additional pockets behind the front seats to hold smaller items for immediate access.
With the added features and enhancements, the XPANDER should continue to be a popular choice for Malaysians who want a practical and versatile MPV. If you are one of the first 500 customers who book and register the new XPANDER via the Mitsubishi Online Showroom will also receive a Naturehike Camping Wagon worth RM400.
