Does Popular Mean Good?: Pros and Cons of the Mitsubishi Xpander

Being on sale for some time now — five years, to be exact, and that’s almost a lifetime in automotive terms — does the current Mitsubishi Xpander need any more introduction?

The Xpander is always worthy of intros because it plays a different tune in the family-oriented, compact seven-seater MPV segment in the likes of the Toyota Avanza. What makes Mitsubishi’s entry unique is that it’s a cross between an MPV and SUV, combining the compact exterior dimensions and spacious cabin of the former, with the stance and style of the latter body style.

Now the Xpander’s popularity (no need to verify this through sales figures — just count each one you see on the streets) proved that its MPV-slash-SUV is a magic mix. Is that really the case, though? And does a model’s popularity equate to an excellent product? To answer these queries, let’s look into the pros and cons of the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander.

Pros

Looks

The Xpander Cross may commit more boldly to the rugged image the MPV name wants to project, but this ‘regular’ Xpander still makes its rough-and-tumble intentions apparent. Giving the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander this imposing countenance is a larger ‘Dynamic Shield’ grille, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels and updated suspension — both of which give the family vehicle a high-up stance and an SUV-rivaling ground clearance of 220mm.

Thanks to these last two changes, the Xpander features the imposing stance and commanding ride height crossovers and SUVs have long been prized for, so the driver and passengers will feel empowered to take the roads less traveled (despite the Xpander being front-wheel drive only). The Xpander just about matches the go-anywhere aura exuded by the Montero Sport.

Driving Position

From behind the wheel of the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander, you get more benefits aside from a good vantage point and sightlines.

As it adjusts for both reach and height, the Xpander’s tiller helps you find the ideal driving position. The vehicle’s seven-inch infotainment screen with Android and Apple phone-mirroring functions and digital climate control — both came with the Xpander’s 2022 update — are as intuitive to use as they are cohesive to behold. Swapping the old level-type handbrake in the update for an electronic kind made room for another welcome creature comfort, an armrest.

Cabin Space

You’d expect nothing less than a spacious cabin in an MPV like the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander.

There are vast amounts of passenger space available in all three rows. The individuals in the second row are positioned nearer to the refreshing breeze from the rear AC system and have easy access to its controls. They can also take advantage of reclining seats and two convenient mobile charging ports. As for the third-row passengers, they have a traditional charging port at their disposal and can enjoy a pleasant view through the windows. If needed, the second and third rows can be folded down, revealing a cargo space with a capacity of several thousand liters. Additionally, the fabric on the seats now showcases a stylish diamond-style quilting pattern.

Cons

Ride Quality

The suspension of the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander is likely designed to counter the weight of seven people and luggage. So, it shouldn’t have been so surprising that the vehicle's ride exhibited a jittery and bouncy quality with just the driver onboard.

The ride quality improved when more mass weighed down the Xpander, and this particularly proved true during one airport run with a total of four occupants and a handful of luggage. Not only did the vehicle’s handling and steering response feel sharper, but the ride noticeably stayed level and the bumps that used to unsettle things were smoothed out. Forget flying solo — in the Xpander, the journey is a thousand times better with the company.

Running Gear

Surrounding the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander’s facelift and new onboard tech is the same gear that motivated the MPV since its launch. We’re talking about a naturally-aspirated, 1.5-liter mill producing 105hp and 141Nm of torque, which spins the front wheels either through a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic (our GLS test car came fitted with this transmission).

Without a turbocharger boosting engine power and despite the automatic shifting rather high in the rev range, the Xpander accelerated languidly. An additional gear or a manual override system could’ve also helped quell down engine revs on the highway or maximize the available power during overtaking. In terms of fuel efficiency, highway driving yielded 12kpl and city crawling returned between 7 to 9kpl, both figures taken at best. 

Verdict

The 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander's powertrain quirks might be resolved by the model's future hybrid version, but in its current form, the car is reasonably comfortable, roomy, useful, and, as time has shown, dependable as well. These advantages render this genuine MPV a respectable option.

Photos from Dylan Afuang