Mitsubishi Xpander receives SUV-focused upgrades

JOHANNESBURG: Since its launch just over a year ago, the Mitsubishi Xpander has quickly become one of the top selling models in the Mitsubishi Motors South Africa offering.

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 family orientated seven-seater, Xpander continues to find favour with local motorists.

Mitsubishi Xpander variations

The next evolution in the Xpander story offers a number of upgrades to further solidify its local market position.

“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,” explains Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). 

The interior of the new Xpander maintains its MPV DNA. However, 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 with confidence. All 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 makes this vehicle stand out from the rest.

The two model offering remains, with both featuring a 1.5-litre engine. The main difference being the choice of transmission between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Exterior – a powerful first impression

The updated Xpander continues to boast the kind of exterior styling that turns heads.

At the heart of the modern yet practical design is Mitsubishi’s 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. 

Exterior proportions are now more premium, moving away from the MPV styling to more of an SUV look and feel.

Upgrades to the exterior include more enhanced SUV styling thanks to a new front face incorporating T-shaped headlamps. 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.

The Xpander’s exceptional ground clearance has been improved from 205 mm to 225mm thanks to the upgraded sporty 16-inch alloy wheels on manual models, while automatic derivatives ride on 17-inch alloys.

The increase in ground clearance also means increases in approach, departure and breakover angles.

An interior perfect for families

The upgraded Xpander has grown 120mm in length, which translates into improved interior space. The cabin of the Xpander 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.

The second row now features a new central rear armrest and updated rear cooler to improve hospitality and passenger comfort for those passengers.

Occupant comfort is further enhanced through full automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, electric windows all round, USB port in the front, 120 Watt power sockets to supply each row of seating and clever storage compartments under the seats to ensure that personal items are out of the way but easy to reach.

Driver comfort is ensured through a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication. Along with a host of the additional comfort feature, the Xpander is also equipped with a standard SDA Android Auto, Apple CarPlay multimedia system worth R 12 000. 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 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 litres/100 km for the manual derivative and 7.0 litres/100 km for the automatic derivative. A 45-litre fuel tank ensures an adequate range.

Safety – technology where it’s needed most

Befitting its status as a people carrier, the all-new 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 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. 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.

“We believe that the Xpander is unique in the way that 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.” concludes Allison.

Warranty and service – added peace of mind

The new Mitsubishi Xpander is covered by a three-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year/30 000 km service plan. The price also includes five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km/1 Year whichever comes first.

Pricing

Xpander 1.5l M/T: R329 995

Xpander 1.5L AVT: R349 995

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Posted by Mitsubishi Motors South Africa on Quickpic News

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