Could the Hyundai Custin might finally challenge the Mitsubishi Xpander here?
Not too long ago, we wrote about why the Mitsubishi Xpander is a great vehicle for almost anyone. Sadly, it is also the only MPV in its segment that ticks all the right boxes, meaning, it has no competition. Now, Hyundai has just revealed a product that may rival the Xpander in the Philippines, will it also come to Malaysia?
Yes, the Hyundai Custin has just been launched in the Philippines with a great price, a spacious interior, striking looks and all the latest in safety and connectivity features. So will Hyundai Malaysia throw its hat into the people hauler MPV ring and finally give the Mitsubishi Xpander some long overdue competition?
Moreover, The Mitsubishi Xpander is already aging in the Malaysian market, so a fresh new contender with fresh new looks may just be exactly what many Malaysians have been asking for. Plus measuring 4,950mm long, 1,850mm wide, 1,710mm tall and with a wheelbase of 3,055mm, this car is BIG.
Similar to the Hyundai Stargazer X which also launched at the same time recently in the Philippines, the Hyundai Custin is also powered by a 1.5-litre inline 4 engine, however, this model also adds a turbocharger to the mix increasing its torque and power but then again, the car needs it badly with its size.
One thing to note is that some other markets will also receive the Hyundai Custin with a 2.0-litre engine but the Philippines did not get that version for the 2023 model year car and if it were to be introduced in Malaysia, we will likely also only receive the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine as well.
On top of that, the Hyundai Custin would definitely be a welcome addition to the Malaysian market, however, as is the case with most other Hyundai models in Malaysia, it will likely cost a bit more than the Mitsubishi Xpander and since value is a big factor here in Malaysia, this might hinder its sales a bit.
Of course, this isn’t to say that the majority of Malaysians are rushing the dealerships begging for an MPV, quite the contrary as most Malaysians are either looking at crossovers, crossover SUVs, SUVs or simple hatchbacks depending on their budgets. Still the Hyundai Custin looks like it might just do fine here.
In conclusion, a spacious and comfortable interior, all the safety and connectivity anyone could ever need, a stylish exterior and a good price all make the Hyundai Custin a great option but here in Malaysia, it likely will not make the brand much in terms of sales so perhaps Hyundai should not even bother with the Custin here.
