2023 Mitsubishi Xpander officially debuts in PH with more kit 

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) has officially launched the 2023 Xpander MPV for the Philippine market, with the refreshed model bringing a host of improvements and additional equipment. 

The refreshed version of MMPC's top-selling model finally arrives in our market

‘We are excited for Filipinos to finally be able to see in the metal the new Xpander. Mitsubishi Motors wanted to further evolve the Xpander and assert its number 1 position in the market,” said MMPC President & CEO Takeshi Hara. “Expect a reimagined ride that will tap into your adventurous spirit and re-excite you to hit the road and go outdoors.” 

The facelifted version made its debut in Indonesia in November 2021, riding on the same monocoque chassis and front-wheel-drive platform it introduced in 2018. Much of the improvements on the 2023 Xpander focuses on styling, functionality, handling, and added safety, while retaining the standard powertrain options.      

Exterior 

The revised Xpander gains 120mm on its body length, on account of revised front and rear bumpers. This has no apparent effect on the passenger compartment, as the vehicle carries over its 2,775mm wheelbase from the pre-facelift version. Height has also been increased by 50mm, with ground clearance now at 225mm, putting it on par with the Xpander Cross. 

A redesigned face makes it even more head-turning

Notable changes are the redesigned fascia which still retains the recognizable Dynamic Shield but now sports T-shaped LED headlamps. These surround the blacked-out grille with piano black slats hovering above an enlarged intake for improved cooling. 

The position lights at the corners of the hood’s leading edge are now full-fledged daytime running lights, incorporating the amber turn signals. Halogen fog lamps are now housed in a three-dimensional skid guard over the front bumper. Holding up the new Xpander over the road is a set of 17-inch two-tone aluminum alloy wheels incorporating a step-rim design. 

It sports a cleaner appearance even at the rear

Design enhancements are also evident at the rear, with T-shaped LED tail lamps flanking the tailgate featuring a more angular apron. The rear foglamp on the previous version has been dropped, resulting in a more seamless appearance on the rear bumper now bordered by vertical reflectors at both ends.       

Interior 

Cabin space on the facelifted Xpander remains the same, with three seating rows featuring a new fabric material with diamond pattern, yet still capable of accommodating up to seven occupants. Second-row passengers now benefit from cupholders on the center console, and the ample cargo space can be expanded even further by folding down the rear seats.

A more premium-looking cabin awaits 

The most striking change in the interior can be found up front, with a redesigned dashboard that’s more streamlined compared to the original. Mitsubishi refers to this aesthetic as the ‘Horizontal Axis’ design, with brushed aluminum trim lending an upmarket look and feel. The dashboard surface’s leather-like appearance now comprises soft-touch material. 

Drivers take hold of a sportier-looking steering wheel, with revised analog gauges still flanking the multi-information display. The manual air-conditioning is now actuated by switches instead of dials, accompanied by an LCD readout. 

Tech & Safety

Infotainment is still accessible via the floating-type touchscreen head unit, now featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for hands-free communications, multimedia, and navigation. 

Cargo space is as generous as ever 

Charging ports for second-row occupants now comprise USB Type-A and Type-C slots right outside the front console box, itself reconfigured to feature a padded armrest and integrated tissue holder. The hand-actuated handbrake lever near the front passenger side has given way to an electronic parking brake switch.  

Standard safety features such as dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, seven seatbelts, and ISOFix tethering system for child car seats are still present. In addition, the Xpander now takes a page from the Xpander Cross by coming equipped with traction and stability control as well as hill-start assist on the automatic variants. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now offered 

Cruise control for long drives remains a major selling point, with the refreshed Xpander being the only MPV in its class to offer it. A rear parking camera is also included to aid in reversing into and out of parking slots.     

Engine & Drivetrain

Powering the 2023 Xpander is still the 1.5-liter 4A91 fuel-injected gasoline power unit that features variable valve timing and dual overhead camshafts. The engine delivers 103 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. 

Take the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander for a spin at the SM MOA Concert Grounds this weekend 

As with the previous version, the refreshed Xpander offers either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic gearbox with external overdrive switch, channeling the output to the front wheels. 

The Xpander’s suspension still uses high performance valves, now with enlarged rear dampers and extra springs. Despite the added ride height, these help in reducing body roll.

Pricing

The 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander is now offered at the following prices: 

Color options include White Pearl, Graphite Gray, Jet Black Mica, Red Metallic, and Blade Silver Metallic. If you want to try the new Xpander on for size, MMPC is offering it and other Mitsubishi vehicles on a test drive caravan, with the SM Mall of Asia as the first stop.  

Know more about new launches in the local market at Philkotse.com.