Xpander – top selling MPV in Mitsubishi range
This seven-seater, the most affordable available, offers rugged looks and comfort.
The interior of the new Xpander maintains its MPV DNA, but the exterior screams SUV, so it’s equally well-suited to everyday commuting, family road trips and leisure activities. In addition, its stylish ruggedness and practicality mean you can take on a variety of terrains with confidence, without having to compromise on comfort.
The two model offering remains, with both featuring a 1.5-litre engine. The main difference being the choice of transmission between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Exterior – a powerful first impression
Upgrades to the exterior include more enhanced SUV styling thanks to a new front face incorporating T-shaped headlamps. A new generation lighting signature features halogen headlamps, fog lamps and more pronounced LED daytime running lights. The rear has been given a modern look with the addition of upgraded LED taillights, in addition to a high-mounted stop lamp and position light.
The Xpander’s exceptional ground clearance has been improved from 205mm to 225mm thanks to the upgraded sporty 16-inch alloy wheels on manual models, while automatic derivatives ride on 17-inch alloys.
An interior perfect for families
The upgraded Xpander has grown 120mm in length, which translates into improved interior space. The cabin of the Xpander provides ample space for up to seven adults to travel in comfort and style.
The flexible seating can be configured to suit a variety of needs, ranging from carrying passengers and luggage to transporting lifestyle-focused items. The second-and third-row seats have a 60/40 split, while the seats of the third row can be folded completely flat and stowed to create additional space in the cargo area. The latter also features a floor box with lid for safe storage of smaller items.
Occupant comfort is further enhanced through full automatic air conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, electric windows all round, USB port in the front, 120W power sockets to supply each row of seating and clever storage compartments under the seats to ensure that personal items are out of the way but easy to reach.
Driver comfort is ensured through a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication. Along with a host of additional comfort features, the Xpander is also equipped with a standard SDA Android Auto, Apple CarPlay multimedia system worth R12 000. The rear-view camera has a high resolution that delivers optimal visibility and a wide field of vision.
Performance – balancing power and efficiency
The all-new Xpander’s smooth performance, low fuel consumption and reduced noise are the results of its highly durable 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine. This spirited powerplant features Mitsubishi’s intelligent innovative valve timing lift electronically control (MIVEC) system and electronically controlled injection (ECI) multipoint fuel injection resulting in 77kW and 141Nm.
Average fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 6.7 litres/100km for the manual derivative and 7.0 litres/100km for the automatic derivative. A 45-litre fuel tank ensures an adequate range.
Safety technology where it’s needed most
Designed to protect not only the driver and passengers but other road users as well, Xpander offers airbags for the driver and front passenger, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), as well as an impact-absorbing structure at the front-end of the vehicle. Additional safety for young occupants is provided through ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Warranty and service
The new Mitsubishi Xpander is covered by a three-year/100 000km manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year/30 000km service plan. The price also includes five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000km/one year, whichever comes first.
Pricing starts at R329 995
Source: QuickPic