Mitsubishi’s new Xpander is a new breed of MPV

COMBINING the traditional versatility and practicality of a multipurpose vehicle (MPV) with the rugged and sporty looks of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV), Mitsubishi’s all-new seven-seater Xpander is set to take this highly competitive market segment by storm. “As the name suggests, the much-anticipated Xpander is all about broadening one’s horizons, whether that be in terms of lifestyle choices, or family dynamics,” explained Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). “With the introduction of this very exciting addition to our line-up, we hope to strengthen our positions in both the MPV and compact SUV segments of the local market.”

The interior of the new Xpander might be all MPV, 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 means you can take on a variety of terrains in confidence, without having to compromise on comfort.

With a turning circle of 5.2 metres, the Xpander handles with the agility of a much smaller vehicle. The suspension in the Xpander has been solidly reinforced which enhances the driving comfort. The quality construction and comprehensive anti-noise and anti-vibration measures make this vehicle stand out from the rest. “Our recent sales figures prove that we are getting the mix right in terms of our model range and our target markets. The Xpander will undoubtedly appeal to buyers with active lifestyles who are looking for something a little different to what our main competitors in the segment are offering,” Campbell said.

There are two models in the local lineup. Both feature a 1.5-litre engine and main difference between the two is the use of either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Exterior – a powerful first impression

The all-new Xpander boasts the kind of exterior styling that will get you noticed, whether you’re pulling into a picnic area or driving up to a luxury hotel.

At the heart of the modern yet practical look is Mitsubishi’s so-called Dynamic Shield Design, which is intended to express not only performance, but also protection. Front-face configurations of past-generation Mitsubishi models served to protect both the occupants and the vehicle. The new face with its black central area builds on this approach, but enhances it by adding a hint of sportiness and performance.

With sporty alloy wheels – 15-inch on the manual model and 16-inch of the automatic derivative – and wide flared fenders, the Xpander portrays toughness and power from the first glance. Crystal clear headlights, daytime running lights and L-illuminated LED taillights that extend onto the tailgate add to the overall look. The Xpander’s higher ground clearance of 205 mm is another feature that is immediately noticeable and emphasises its sporty, but practical character.

Interior – ‘Omotenashi’ in every detail

Mitsubishi strongly believes in the principle of ‘Omotenashi’ – a Japanese word that captures the way in which Japanese hosts pay attention to detail and anticipate the needs of their guests. This approach is clearly evident in the cabin of the all-new Xpander, which 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 fully automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, electric windows all round, USB port in the front, 120-Watt power sockets to supply every row of seating and clever storage compartments under the seats to ensure that personal items are out of the way but within easy reach.

Driver comfort is ensured through a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for handsfree communication and a multi-information display. 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 result of its highly durable 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine. This spirited powerplant features Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system and ECI multipoint fuel injection and pushes out 77 kW at 6 000 r/min, with 141 Nm of peak torque on tap at 4 000 r/min.

With a fuel tank of 45 litres, average fuel consumption in a combined cycle is 6.9 litres/100 km for the manual model and 7.0 litres/100 km for the automatic derivative.

Safety – technology where it’s needed most

Befitting its status as a people carrier, the allnew Xpander features a range of innovative safety features as standard. Designed to protect not only the driver and passengers, but other road users as well, these include airbags for the driver and front passenger, seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), as well as an impactabsorbing structure at the front-end of the vehicle. Additional safety for young occupants is provided through ISOFIX child seat anchors.

The Xpander also benefits from an advanced all-direction collision reinforced impact safety evolution (RISE) body construction with side impact bars. Coming-home and welcome lights enhance the overall safety, security and practicality.