Engineering people movers is one of the things that Mitsubishi does well, which explains the success of its Xpander MPV. Aware of its rivals in the segment, the carmaker introduced updates beginning in 2020, just two years after the Xpander premiered.
The current Mitsubishi Xpander (left) and the refreshed model (right)
To prove how invested it really is when it comes to one of its most popular models, Mitsubishi is now bringing further tweaks to the Xpander for the 2022 model year. It also launched the refreshed model locally back in June 2022. Let’s take a look at the improvements that the second refresh brings this time around.
2022 Mitsubishi Xpander Old vs New: Exterior
For the most part, the updated Xpander appears to retain the original proportions of the older version, measuring just 120mm longer and 50mm higher. Even the 2,775mm wheelbase remains the same, promising the same generous space inside. The most drastic difference is the increased ground clearance from 205mm to 225mm which practically puts the new Xpander on par with the Xpander Cross.
The old Xpander from the rear
While still using the Dynamic Shield as the design base, the fascia has been revised yet again, this time with LED headlamps reformatted into a sideways T shape. The license plate holder has switched places with the lower intake, and the restyled front bumper features new fog lamp housings.
The new Xpander's rear end
On account of its increased ride height, the refreshed 2022 Mitsubishi Xpander now wears 17-inch alloys, again putting it alongside the Xpander Cross. Revised LED tail lamps echo the ones in front, hovering over a new streamlined rear bumper that carries vertical reflectors at the corners.
2022 Mitsubishi Xpander Old vs New: Interior
More changes can be found in the interior, starting with the revamped horizontal dashboard that does away with the carbon fiber-like surface accent in favor of a cleaner look. Mitsubishi has added what looks like more padding to the top edge. The dashboard also features new colors. These are also found on the door trims and diamond-pattern seats for seven occupants.
The old Xpander's interior
The new Xpander now comes with a padded armrest on the front console, along with center cupholders for the second-row seats. A redesigned steering wheel now uses a circular central hub reminiscent of the famed Lancer Evolution series, in an apparent effort to strike a connection between the current MPV and Mitsubishi’s long-departed sports sedan line.
A peek inside the refreshed model
2022 Mitsubishi Xpander Old vs New: Tech & Safety
Gone are the large rotary dials on the climate control unit, now replaced by toggle switches accompanied by an LCD display. Even the front vents have been redesigned, with those at the corners now sporting a uniform look with the central ones.
The new one also gets a 7-inch headunit. Note however, the new air-conditioning vents
The touchscreen display however retains its seven-inch size. Down below that is an electronic parking brake with auto hold function which takes the place of the conventional handbrake lever, resulting in a cleaner look for the front console. Two USB ports have been added at the rear for passengers.
Safety features have been carried over from the previous version, including dual airbags, seven seatbelts, ISOFix anchors, and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution. Higher-spec trim variants come with hill-start assist as well as traction and stability control, which are exclusive to the Xpander Cross in our market.
2022 Mitsubishi Xpander Old vs New: Engine & Drivetrain
The 1.5-liter 4A91 gasoline power plant featuring MIVEC technology is still the lone resident inside the engine bay, rated at 103 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. Power is still delivered to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic gearbox.
The new Xpander still uses a four-speed automatic gearbox
A new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system makes its way to the engine to further improve fuel efficiency. Mitsubishi says that the refreshed Xpander uses improved front strut mounts and new high-performance damper valves, as well as larger cylinders for the rear suspension to improve handling and ride quality.
2022 Mitsubishi Xpander Old vs New: Pricing
Pricing information for the 2022 Mitsubishi Xpander starts at Php 1,050,000 for the entry-level GLX MT, and Php 1,110,000 for the GLX AT. The top-spec GLS AT in turn, can be had for Php 1,180,000.
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