2018 Mitsubishi Xpander MPV launched in GIIAS 2017

Mitsubishi has unveiled its all-new Mitsubishi Xpander MPV at GIIAS 2017.

After teasing customers with first shots of its forthcoming next-generation Multipurpose Vehicle (MPV), Mitsubishi Motors Corporation finally informed the official name of the MPV at the 2017 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS).

Called “Xpander”, this much awaited MPV combines the many significant factors that are basic in the ASEAN market. Perhaps ‘Xpander” means “xpand” the company’s reputation through “xpanded” styling, efficiency, performance and versatility.

A silver Mitsubishi Xpander angular front view

2018 Mitsubishi Xpander MPV launched in GIIAS 2017

Mr. Osamu Masuko, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Chief Executive Officer shared that the brand-new Xpander is expected to be one of the best entries to the future of Mitsubishi in the ASEAN region, the Indonesian Light Commercial Vehicle and SUV markets. The next-gen MPV marries the maneuverability of a small vehicle, the height of a crossover and the flexibility of a MPV; essential features for any family-oriented car in the region and a lot of emerging auto markets. Mitsubishi expects to make a positive difference in the lives of its customers around the world.

The Japanese automaker made this next-gen MPV to perform a variety of roles. The MPV will be able to perform as a durable, rugged all-terrain SUV with the practicality of a multi-purpose vehicle. Worth mentioning is that the look of the Xpander centered around the Dynamic Shield fascia that is fitted as standard in many Mitsubishi’s popular models such as the Montero Sport, the Outlander and Eclipse Cross. The new MPV is also designed with L-shaped LED taillights, LED headlights, the edgy D pillar, and a roofline with a floating look.

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A silver Mitsubishi Xpander rear view

The brand-new Xpander is expected to be one of the best entries to the future of Mitsubishi in the ASEAN region

Already promising the greatest cabin in its segment, the new MPV offers a very flexible inside adorned with a full flat surface for hauling cargo. The Xpander can accommodate up to 7 full-size adults, features a three-row in a 2-3-2 layout. The third row seats fold in a 50/50 split while the second row goes up 60/40, which is respectable for ferrying passengers or cargo or both.

The new MPV comes with an upgraded version of the 4A91 1.5-liter four-cylinder DOHC gasoline engine that delivers an output of 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque. The engine is fitted with MIVEC and is particularly designed to bring dependable and punchy ride as well as improve car sound and noise insulation. This is all thanks to aluminum oil pan, chain case with internal high-rigidity engine mount bracket, forged crankshaft and aluminum exhaust manifold cover.

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2018 Mitsubishi Xpander's cabin

The new MPV offers a very flexible inside adorned with a full flat surface for hauling cargo

The engine is paired with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. Mitsubishi stated that the MPV will offer a very solid and reliable performance even when climbing up steep hills at full load.

Some of key creature comfort features are a multimedia entertainment system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity and a dual air-conditioning system. Safety is also pretty solid with ABS, stability control and some other important items.

The 2018 Xpander is made at the company’s new factory in Bekasi, Indonesia.

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2018 Mitsubishi Xpander all new MPV

Know more about Mitsubishi Xpander 2024

Mitsubishi Xpander 2024

The 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander is a seven-seater MPV for the Philippine market. As of the 2024 model year, there are three available variants for this model. There’s the Xpander GLX 1.5 MT, the Xpander GLX 1.5 AT, and the Xpander GLS 1.5 AT. These range in price from Php 1,068,000 to Php 1,266,000.

Size-wise, the Xpander has a length of 4,595mm, a width of 1,750mm, and a height of 1,750mm. It also has a wheelbase that spans 2,775mm, and a ground clearance of 225mm.

Under the hood, this Mitsubishi MPV uses a 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine that’s capable of producing up to 103 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. It then uses a front-wheel-drive layout. Depending on the trim, it either gets a four-speed automatic gearbox, or a five-speed manual transmission.

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Mitsubishi Xpander Launch

The updated 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander was introduced to the Philippine market in May 2022. It comes with some slight exterior, interior, and mechanical changes. Available variants for this model include the Xpander GLX 1.5 MT, Xpander GLX 1.5 AT, and the Xpander GLX 1.5 AT.

Mitsubishi Xpander Exterior

On the outside, the Xpander for the 2024 model year gets an updated front grille and bumper design. It now incorporates a mesh, as well as a black-colored slatted grille. It also gets a pair of T-shaped daytime running lamps on the front and a pair of new T-shaped on the rear. It then rides on a set of 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels.

Mitsubishi Xpander Interior

Inside, the updated Xpander now comes with a redesigned dashboard which also hosts a sleeker control cluster for its air-conditioning unit. It also gets a center armrest. Likewise, its steering wheel also received a redesign.

Being a facelift, it does retain the same generous interior space, as well as its ability to fit up to seven passengers. The driver is also provided with a tilt and telescopic steering column, a push-to-start button, and cruise control, among other features.

Technology & Safety Features

On the dashboard of the 2024 Xpander is a seven-inch headunit. This infotainment system, which is now standard across all trims, now has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is then linked to a six-piece speaker system.

Safety-wise, it comes with dual front airbags, anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution, stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, ISOFIX child seat anchors, etc.

Mitsubishi Xpander Platform & Chassis

The Mitsubishi Xpander is a five-door compact MPV that uses a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. It then gets a MacPherson strut for the front and a torsion beam suspension for the rear. Braking is then handled by front disc brakes, a rear drum brake, and a manual hand-operated parking brake.

Mitsubishi Xpander Engine & Drivetrain

Standard on all Xpander trims is a 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine that can produce up to 103 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. The GLX may come with a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic gearbox. The top-spec GLS meanwhile exclusively uses a four-speed automatic transmission.

In the Philippine market, the Mitsubishi Xpander has three different color options. These are Graphite Gray, Sterling Silver Metallic, and Jet Black Mica.