Mitsubishi Xpander - Pros & cons

Mitsubishi’s entry to the small MPV segment, Xpander has its own significant reasons why you should get behind its wheels. If you are looking for a sleek but smaller sized vehicle, then the Xpander is definitely for you. Thanks to its Montero Sport-inspired look, you can now have a car that is beyond futuristic-looking but packed with the convenience of driving a powerful vehicle.

The Mitsubishi Xpander is the replacement of the all-time favorite Adventure and was launched in March 2018. Mitsubishi’s answer to the fast-growing MPV segment in the car scene became a head-turner since then.

With a size that is bigger than its competitors in the small MPV and SUV scene, the Xpander tops the game with its length of 4475 mm and width of 1750 mm. This car is generally bigger than Honda BR-V and Toyota Avanza but quite a little bit smaller than the Toyota Rush that stands in 1700 mm height whilst Xpander falls short by 5mm.

Here is a look at Mitsubishi Xpander price in Philippines:

VARIANT	PRICE
Mitsubishi Xpander GLX 1.5G 2WD MT	Php 999,000
Mitsubishi Xpander GLX Plus 1.5G 2WD AT	Php 1.08 Million
Mitsubishi Xpander GLS 1.5G 2WD AT	Php 1.11 Million
Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Sport 1.5G 2WD AT	Php 1.18 Million

Under the hood, the Xpander is equipped with 1.5L MIVEC DOHC inline 4 cylinder 16-Valve gasoline injected engine that fires a maximum power output of 105 horsepower at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 141 Nm at 4000 rpm. The sole variant with manual transmission Xpander GLX shift gears at 5-speed M/T while the other trims shift at 4-speed automatic.

Engine Overview of the Mitsubishi Xpander

Gearbox	5-speed manual transmission (GLX) / 4-speed automatic transmission
Displacement	1499 cc
Max Power	105 hp at 6000 rpm
Max Torque	141 Nm at 4000 rpm
Fuel System	Electronic controlled multi-point fuel injection (ECI - Multi)

Here’s a run-through of the ultimate pros and cons of driving a Mitsubishi Xpander:

Pros/Advantages of Mitsubishi Xpander

• Design. The exterior design of the Xpander puts an edge on its namesake. Its sleek daytime running lights, X-shaped front grille, and front bumper makes it even more aggressively modern and also envibes a sporty aura. The crystal box-like bumper-embedded headlights and the sporty LED taillights add more sophistication to its already-futuristic outlook - not to mention its dual-tone alloy 16-inch alloy wheels.

• Chassis. Since the Xpander was built with a chassis that has a very similar construction with the sedan, it can provide a more comfortable and refined ride. Its monocoque chassis offers better stiffness and even weight advantage.

• Fuel Economy. The 1.5 litre petrol engine that is employed in the Xpander can offer a fuel economy of 22.9 kmpl.

• Interior Space. Its total interior space of 2840 mm provides more ample space to fit in a whole family of seven adult members. The spacious interior also suggests better comfort, especially on longer travels. Cup holders and various storage features like driver and passenger seatback pockets are also present so you can avoid spills and seas crowded with stuff as you ride this car.

• Storage. The Xpander has the best luggage floor without bumps and gaps. When the second and third-row seats were folded, it can accommodate a maximum of 1,630 litres in terms of cargo capacity.

• Driver’s Assistance. Aside from the standard ABS with EBD, the Mitsubishi Xpander specs sheet also include cruise control and navigation as well as electronic stability control, traction control, and hill start assist. 

• Safety. The Xpander also got a four-star safety rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (ASEAN NCAP) so you can count on its safety features as well. 

• Technology Features. This MPV is packed with an infotainment system that has a seven-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, AUX, and Smartphone Screen Mirroring options through WiFi (like Chromecast on LED TVs). The audio system also has a 6-piece speaker with 2 tweeters which can make your sound trip while traveling better than ever. The third-row armrests also have 12-volt sockets where you can charge your phones, laptops, and other gadgets.

• Affordability. Sure it may not be the least expensive, but, Xpander is almost at par with its peers in the MPV segment in terms of pricing. For example, Toyota Rush is at PHP 1.09 Million and Honda BR-V is at PHP 1.15 Million whilst Xpander’s most expensive variant is at P 1.18 Million.

Cons/Disadvantages of Mitsubishi Xpander

• Gearbox.  Even though its gearbox still gets the job done at all costs, the mill might still take some time to shift up with a rather dated transmission with only four gears.

• Design. Confusing? We put the design in the advantages section but we can also consider its looks to have some fallbacks. Not a lot of people might like an overly futuristic outlook and a sporty vibe for a vehicle that is supposed to fit a family. Although it's great to have a very modernized exterior, it might not be a fit for the tastes of many.

• Engine. Since all engines of all the variants are being run by gasoline, it might also be ideal to have some trims that are powered by diesel.

• Interior Outlook. In spite of being spacious, we cannot see a similar effort in beautifying the interiors of the car as the automakers have done to its exterior. The futuristic look outside does not necessarily, in any way, resemble the inside. The dashboard may be classified as a tad boring, ergo, it could have been improved more.

With its spacious interior, additional technology features with the convenience of charging your phone even at the backseat, this car might be the right one for you. This car can be really ideal for families who also happen to have kids - might also be a perfect fit for working moms and/or dads who run small businesses and need ample storage in his vehicle.

So, if you are up for a much sleeker, futuristic, and sporty looking car with powerful driving performance and good fuel economy, then you should definitely get to test drive or own a Mitsubishi Xpander today!

Also read: Mitsubishi Xpander or Toyota Avanza - Which MPV should you buy?