Mitsubishi introduces their all-new Xpander
The Xpander promises to be a lifestyle MPV like no other and will combine traditional versatility with practicality. The all-new seven-seater is set to take the market by storm, offering consumers both a comfortable interior and a sporty exterior. On the outside, the all-new Xpander will boast enough stylish cues to catch anyone’s attention. Mitsubishi’s so-called Dynamic Shield Design will become the key component in its design, meaning that protection is a main priority for the Xpander.
The vehicle’s front face has been configured to protect both the vehicle and its occupants. The Xpander will ride on sporty alloy wheels, with the manual model’s size being 15-inches, and the automatic model’s being 16-inches. Summing up its sporty appearance will be its Crystal-clear headlights, daytime running lights and L-illuminated LED taillights which will extend onto the tailgate. Another instantly noticeable factor about the Xpander will be its ground clearance which sits at 205 mm.
Powering the Xpander will be a highly durable 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine. It will come featured with Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system and ECI multipoint fuel injection and will produce a power output of 77kW and 141 Nm of torque. Its average fuel consumption in a combined cycle is claimed to be 6.9 litres/100 km for the manual model and 7.0 litres/100 km for the automatic derivative.
Inside, Mitsubishi has made sure to pay every bit of detail within its cabin. It also offers plenty of room for its passengers, with the second-and third-row seats having a 60/40 split, while the seats of the third row being able to fold completely flat, creating additional space in the cargo area. Standard features in the Xpander will include automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, electric windows all around, USB port in the front, 120-Watt power socket as well as clever storage compartments which can be found under the seats. The driver will also benefit a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication and a multi-information display.
In terms of safety, the Xpander will come equipped with 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. Young passengers will also be provided with ISOFIX child seat anchors. In addition to this, the Xpander will come with an advanced all-direction collision reinforced impact safety evolution (RISE) body construction with side impact bars.
Pricing
Xpander 1.5L (manual) R299 995
Xpander 1.5L (automatic) R319 995
Also worth a look: the Mitsubishi Triton and the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Mitsubishi's Value Punch in the .
FAQ
Q: What does the Mitsubishi Xpander cost in South Africa?
The Mitsubishi Xpander starts from around R389,995 for the manual variant, whilst the automatic model kicks off at approximately R419,995, making it a competitive option in the seven-seater MPV market.
Q: Is the Mitsubishi Xpander worth buying?
The Xpander offers solid value with its spacious seven-seat configuration, decent 77kW power output, and practical 205mm ground clearance, but you'll need to weigh its 6.9L/100km fuel consumption against rivals like the Toyota Avanza.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Mitsubishi Xpander?
The Xpander delivers a claimed fuel consumption of 6.9 litres per 100km for the manual transmission and 7.0 litres per 100km for the automatic variant, which is reasonably competitive for a seven-seater MPV.
Q: What engine does the Mitsubishi Xpander have?
The Xpander runs a 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium engine with Mitsubishi's MIVEC system, producing 77kW of power and 141Nm of torque, which should handle family duties without breaking a sweat.
Q: How many people can the Mitsubishi Xpander seat?
The Xpander seats seven people across three rows, with the second and third rows featuring a 60/40 split configuration and the third row folding completely flat for extra cargo space when needed.
Should You Buy It?
The Mitsubishi Xpander deserves serious consideration if you need a practical seven-seater under R450,000 in South Africa. At R389,995 for the manual and R419,995 for the auto, it undercuts premium rivals whilst offering decent space, acceptable fuel economy at 6.9L/100km, and enough ground clearance at 205mm for our questionable road surfaces. The 77kW output won't set your pants on fire, but it's adequate for family hauling duties. If you're after the best value seven-seater MPV under R420,000 in SA, the Xpander makes a compelling case against the Toyota Avanza, though you might want to test drive both before signing on the dotted line.
