New Xpander Moving Away from MPV to SUV

 Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) look and feels to be a more Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with more generous exterior proportions and increased ground clearance.

“The Xpander is a true family-style seven-seater, with the space and engine performance to complete the package, which is why we believe it is South Africa’s most affordable seven-seater family vehicle in its class,” says Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Of marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). 

The Xpander remains a two-model offering. Power runs through a 1,5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine that features Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronically Control (MIVEC) system and Electronically Controlled Injection (ECI) multipoint fuel injection resulting in 77 kW at 6 000 r/min and 141 Nm at 4 000 r/min.

Average fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 6,7 l/100 km for the manual and 7,0 l/100 km for the automatic.

The front face of the Xpander has changed slightly, and 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.

Ground clearance is up from 205 mm to 225 mm thanks to the 16-inch alloy wheels on manual models, while automatic derivatives ride on 17-inch alloys.

The upgraded Xpander has grown 120 mm in length, which translates into improved interior space in all three rows of seating. They are configurable to suit various needs, from carrying passengers and luggage to transporting lifestyle-focused items.

The second-and third-row seats have a 60/40 split, while the third-row seats can be folded completely flat and stowed to create additional space in the cargo area. The latter also features a floor box with a lid for safely storing smaller items.

The second row now has a new central rear armrest and updated rear cooler to improve hospitality and passenger comfort.

Standard comfort features include fully automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, power windows all around, a USB port in the front, 120 Watt power sockets to supply each row of seating and storage compartments under the seats.

Drivers get a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel with Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication. The Xpander also comes with a standard SDA Android Auto and 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. 

Safety systems include crash bags for the driver and front passenger, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), and an impact-absorbing structure at the front end of the vehicle. Additional safety for young occupants is provided through ISOFIX child seat anchors.

 “We believe the Xpander is unique in the way it offers space for seven occupants to travel in style, in a vehicle that ticks all the boxes such as great styling, safety, a comprehensive level of standard specification and a powerful drivetrain. Considering the starting price, the latest upgrades ensure that the Xpander offers you more value for money without compromising quality,” says Allison.

The new Mitsubishi Xpander retails with a 3-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a 2-year/30 000 km service plan. The price also includes 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km or after 1-year, whichever comes first.

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