Mitsubishi Philippines has opened the reservation books for the newest Xpander months ahead from its official launch in May. The latest iteration of their best-selling MPV features design tweaks inside and out. Most important of all, it now starts higher at P1,030,000 for the GLX MT trim. Is it justifiable? It’s up to you. Just take note that the specs shared here are not final until they officially launch the car in May.
The most visible change is in its front face. It now has T-shaped headlights together with a redesigned blacked-out grille assembly that’s flatter if seen from the side. They also moved the plate holder to the lower bumper in order to have a clean airflow to the mesh grille while also flaunting the new face better. The daytime running lights are now segmented but have the same size as before, while the lower bumper was also tweaked to better compliment the other changes. As for the sides, it remains the same except for the new design on the 17-inch wheels.
Significant changes were also done on the rear. The taillights are now also T-shaped instead of the previous L-pattern, the bumpers were redesigned to accommodate a bigger skid plate and vertical reflectors, and there’s now a protrusion on the panel under the rear glass, to create a body line that connects the taillights. Overall, the new Xpander elevated its unique design to something that looks more than its worth, especially against the South Lake Village as a backdrop.
When it comes to dimensions, this Xpander sits higher at 225mm, equal to the more gnarly Xpander Cross. It’s also 120mm longer, 50mm taller, but retains the same wheelbase and width as before.
The cabin also received a lot of updates in all rows. For starters, there’s a new dashboard courtesy of Mitsubishi’s Horizontal Axis ethos. This is complemented with a new steering wheel with audio controls and cruise control, new standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the GLS variant will get digital controls for their aircon.
Comfort is also elevated in many ways for all passengers. The driver now has an electronic parking brake with auto brake-hold, there’s now a center armrest, padded armrests on the doors, and soft touch materials on the dashboard. There’s even a shoe tray under the front passenger seat. The second row got redesigned air vents and a new shiny knob. They also now have a USB Type-C and Type-A port behind the center console, and a center armrest with cup holders, while the third row has a 12v socket.
Mitsubishi retained the same engine from the previous model which is a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter with 103 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque, paired to a 4-speed automatic. Safety features are also carried over, with the GLS the only one to have active stability control, traction control, and hill start assist.
However, Mitsubishi made a tweak in the suspension. They’ve added high performance valves for the front and rear that’s supposed to make riding comfort better despite the higher ground clearance.
Beyond the design and features, the biggest change in the Xpander is with the pricing. It now starts at P1,030,000 for the GLX MT, P1,090,000 for the GLX AT, while the GLS AT is at P1,160,000. You can now go to a Mitsubishi dealership near you to reserve a unit but apart from that, Mitsubishi Philippines CEO Takeshi Hara also said that they have a pre-selling treat before the month ends. If you’re looking for a new MPV for your family, maybe now is the best time to get one with Mitsubishi.
