MITSUBISHI XPANDS THE XPANDER’S STYLE AND CAPABILITIES
The refined, redesigned and revitalized Mitsubishi Xpander is now better than ever
Mitsubishi’s best-selling Xpander MPV has been improved, sharpened, and refined this year, resulting in an even more attractive family ride. Xpander combines the looks and ride height of a compact SUV with the comfort and space of an MPV. The 2022 Xpander features a sleek new look, enhanced safety features, and even more convenience features, all for a surprisingly affordable price.
Let’s start with the looks. The new Xpander features Mitsubishi’s Advanced Dynamic Shield front design. A blackedout grille is front and center, flanked by distinctive T-shaped headlamps and blade-like running lights, its trademark feature. The lower portion of the bumper is heavily sculpted and folds into the squaredoff front fenders. The revised styling emphasizes the Xpander’s width, as embodied by the three-dimensional skid guards. The rear design sports matching T-shaped taillights, revised bumper, and tailgate garnish. Wheels are now 17-inch alloys with 205/55 tires.
Inside, the new Xpander features a new instrument panel with a prominent 7-inch infotainment screen. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Separate tweeters complete the 6-speaker audio system.
Storage and convenience are the Xpander’s priorities when it came to the new interior. The front console is now a large-capacity open tray with 12-volt outlet and USB port. There’s more storage in the form of a front row under trays, and a new floor console that can hold a tissue pack and four 600-ml bottles. The second row of seats have their own USB ports: one type-A and one type-C, so all types of gadgets can be plugged in.
Xpander now has digital climate control, with a rear AC-control dial. The easy-folding second row slides fore and aft to give easy access to the third row of seats. The second row features a large foldable armrest with cupholders, giving it a more premium feel when only two passengers are seated there.
Xpander promises to comfortably seat up to seven adults, plus luggage. With all seats up, up to four 4-gallon water bottles or a stroller can fit in the luggage space. When the third row is folded flat, a wide, large space free of obstructions can swallow bikes, potted plants or even furniture. The trunk also features under-floor storage with cargo organizer, safely storing wet items like shoes or umbrellas. Likewise, there’s a storage tray under the front passenger seat.
Xpander prioritizes comfort with its revised suspension, with enlarged rear shock absorber, extra front and rear springs, and high-performance damper valves. These new parts reportedly result in a flatter and smoother ride on all types of roads. Steering wheel return control has been enhanced for better maneuverability, particularly at low speeds. Brake electronics allow for available brake auto hold, hill start assist, traction control, and active stability control. Safety is the Xpander’s strong suit, with available active stability control helping the driver maintain control on slippery surfaces.
The Xpander’s ground clearance has been increased to 225mm for higher eyepoint, and greater confidence in floods and poor road conditions. Xpander is the only car in its category to have cruise control, for more convenient highway driving. A backup camera has been installed as well. Power-folding side mirrors help when maneuvering and parking in tight spaces.
Power comes from a 1.5-liter DOHC 16-valve gasoline engine with 104ps and 141Nm. It’s mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, with drive going to the front wheels.
The Xpander starts at P1,050,000. Color are White Pearl, Graphite Gray, Black, Red, Sunshine Orange and the newest Blade Silver Metallic. For a more in-depth look of the variants, check out the brand’s official website or view it at any Mitsubishi Motors authorized outlet.
“Mitsubishi Motors wanted to further evolve the Xpander and assert its number 1 position in the market. We have enhanced its unique selling propositions while upholding the traits that have made it the MPV that it is today. Expect a reimagined ride that will tap into your adventurous spirit and re-excite you to hit the road and go outdoors,” said Mr. Takeshi Hara, MMPC’s President and CEO.