The new Mitsubishi Xpander has arrived to retain the nameplate’s spot as the no.1 non-national MPV.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has today launched the facelifted Xpander compact MPV. This 7-seater has been a sales success for the company, with 40,000 units sold in the last 4 years, cementing its place as the best selling non-national MPV. The new Xpander brings some noteworthy changes but the price remains pretty close to its original launch price with the standard variant coming in at RM99,980 and the Xpander Plus coming in at RM109,980. These are introductory prices and will go up by next year, so don’t hold back if you’re eyeing this vehicle. Plus, the first 500 customers who book and register a Mitsubishi Xpander via the Mitsubishi Online Showroom will get a free Naturehike Camping Wagon worth RM400.
Being a facelift model, the changes are mostly cosmetic so let’s go through some of the more familiar items again. The same durable and proven 1.5-litre MIVEC petrol engine returns and is still paired to a 4-speed conventional automatic. The engine produces 105 PS at 6,000 rpm and 141 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.
What’s New With The Xpander?
The design has been updated inside and out. You’ll find a new Dynamic Shield front face with updated bumpers, silver accents (high spec) and a generally more horizontal look. The headlights and taillights are updated with a T-shaped design. Automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, and front fog lights are included. New 17″ dual tone alloy wheels complete the exterior look and you’ll get 4 colour options: Diamond Black, new Graphite Gray, Red Metallic and Quartz White Pearl (RM300 surcharge applies).
The new Xpander is also raised by 20mm and that gives it best-in-class ground clearance of 225mm. The rear absorbers have been upgraded and enlarged by 5mm for a more comfort-oriented ride. Added absorber and insulator materials have gone into the new car as well for improved NVH.
Inside, the Xpander looks much improved with a Digital Climate Control and wireless charging pad being added. A new all-round monitor makes parking easier and an Electronic Parking Brake and Brake Auto Hold improve convenience and perceived value.
You’ll also find both front and rear driving video recorders. The steering wheel is brand new and feels much more premium. Sticking with this theme is some new premium soft touch material on the dashboard. The higher tier model has some leatherette seat covers and as before the rear air circulators and tilt & telescopic steering wheel return.
Storage has been improved – the centre console is also leatherette covered this time around and the 2nd row arm rest gets new cup holders. Flexi seating is retained and you can still hide items under the cargo floor box lid and under the front seat with a slide out compartment. The 2nd row features multiple seat back pockets.
A 5 year/unlimited mileage warranty is standard for both variants. You can experience the Xpander first hand at its nationwide tour:
| No | State | Venue | Date |
| 1 | Melaka | Mahkota Parade | 27-29 Sept |
| 2 | Pahang | East Coast Mall | 3-6 October |
| 3 | Sarawak | Vivacity Mall | 11-13 October |
| 4 | Klang Valley | MITEC | 8-10 November |
| 5 | Klang Valley | MITEC | 5-11 December |
