Mitsubishi’s new variant of its Xpander model, the Xpander Cross, is introduced as an MPV reinvented, featuring a 7-seat cabin, economical engine, high ground clearance, with a sporty exterior and welcoming interior. As a new breed of crossover, the Xpander Cross possesses elements of an SUV that allow for great all-around versatility. Taking inspiration from the Japanese word “omotenashi” which translates to “hospitality,” the Xpander Cross embodies a well-rounded crossover.
Exterior
Available in three reserved colors of Graphite Grey, Quartz White and Sterling Silver Metallic, as well as one bold color in Sunrise Orange Metallic, the Xpander Cross’ exterior screams “Mitsubishi” from top to bottom, especially from its LED fog lights and the general shape of its hood. Its front looks very similar to the Montero Sport, as it incorporates Mitusbishi’s geometric design concept called “Dynamic Shield.”
As previously mentioned, the Xpander Cross also incorporates SUV characteristics like a higher ground clearance (225mm), which is something that could be beneficial in a variety of ways, such as during the rainy season where many areas get flooded. Other SUV-like touches include roof rails for those outdoor adventures, as well as rugged-looking 17-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
The “hospitality” aspect is most felt inside the vehicle as there are multiple features that allow you to feel pleasant and relaxed with its primarily black, brown and grey interior. In addition, littered all around the vehicle are clever storage spaces to suit various needs and purposes. Included in these seemingly endless and convenient storage spaces is a sleek, horizontal pocket above the glove compartment that can store your phone, wallet, shades and the like, multiple pockets behind driver’s seat for books, magazines or tablets, 2 PET bottle holders each for the front doors and 3 PET bottle holders each for the rear doors, and a pull-out tray beneath the passenger seat for dirty shoes or folding umbrellas, among many other storage bins scattered around the car.
In terms of spaciousness, there’s decent headroom and legroom that allow for good wiggle room at the front. Its middle row has average space, except that the person occupying the middle seat would have less legroom than those at his/her sides. Lastly, the final row is the least generous in terms of spaciousness, but sliding the middle row forward can easily make up for that.
Given the Xpander Cross’ compact nature, there isn’t a whole lot of trunk space as compared to fellow crossovers. However, foldable second and third row seats, as well as even more clever storage spaces beneath the main trunk level would surely add a valuable amount of cargo space.
Lastly in terms of its infotainment system and instrument panel, there isn’t anything necessarily eye-popping as they both pretty much possess the essential features, such as multimedia, navigation, radio, etc. One feature I would personally love the Xpander Cross to have is both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as these are of such great convenience for all drivers and passengers alike.
Under the hood
Powering the Xpander Cross is a 1.5-liter DOHC 16-valve engine, equipped with the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system, allowing a more powerful performance without having to compromise fuel consumption. Having the combination of an economical yet powerful engine is always a great attribute for any car to have, but will especially be appreciated on a crossover. Moreover, a feature that the Xpander Cross has that quite a few other crossovers don’t have is cruise control, which is another attribute that most, if not all, drivers would love to have at their disposal.
One way how I personally felt the vehicle being considered a new breed of crossover was from the actual driving experience. As a compact car that feels smaller than it is when on the wheel, the Xpander Cross is quite mobile and nimble for its overall size. Add to that its SUV-like characteristics such as a higher ground clearance and a more powerful engine, you really do feel like you’re driving a bonafide SUV.
Safety
Similar to how the interior is sprinkled with a generous amount of clever storage spaces, the Xpander Cross in general is also sprinkled with multiple safety features. As a vehicle of relatively average size, the Xpander Cross has a uniquely strong body that’s held together with welds for further protection thanks to Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) frame to absorb contact from any direction. Furthermore, the vehicle has two types of onboard safety systems: solid safety for a more reinforced body shell and Active Stability Control for intelligent safety.
Further safety features include Hill Start Assist, Anti-Lock Brake System, protective door finishes, Emergency Stop Signal System that warns those behind you when stopping abruptly, and Electronic Time and Alarm Control System for your headlights to function in a smarter way as if anticipating your next move. Clearly, safety is at the forefront for both the Xpander Cross and Mitsubishi as a whole.
Verdict
Not only does the Xpander Cross embody its “omotenashi” influence that gives off a hospitable nature, it is also blessed with true SUV-like characteristics that allow for a more versatile and unique driving experience. What I personally enjoyed most about the Xpander Cross was that it’s very conveniently sized and yet possesses a powerful engine that enhances its overall capability on the road.
