Top 3 things you need to know about the Mitsubishi Xpander
With so many SUV and crossover models available on the market, MPVs are overlooked. The Mitsubishi Xpander might just draw more attention with its striking styling. Here are the top three things you need to know about the Mitsubishi Xpander.
The Mitsubishi Xpander is a brand new MPV model launched to the local market. According to the Japanese automaker, the Xpander combines the practicality of an MPV with the striking, sporty and rugged styling expected from an SUV. Although you might not be able to tackle a 4X4 track with the new Xpander, it is very capable of tackling more rugged terrain.
According to Mitsubishi South Africa's General Manager, Nic Campbell, the name, Xpander, suggests that with this vehicle, owners can "broaden their horizons, whether that be in terms of lifestyle choices, or family dynamics". This is mostly due to the amount of space provided on the interior as well as the variety of seat configurations that allow the transportation of larger items, or more occupants.
1. Space
As an MPV should, the Xpander not only offer customers a good amount of luggage space and seats but versatility in how to configure the interior to find the best balance between luggage volume and seats. The Xpander offer 781 litres of luggage space which can expand to 1 608 litres if you fold the rear bench flat. The Mitsubishi MPV also offer up to seven seats including the driver which makes it ideal for families.
2. Safety and comfort
The Mitsubishi Xpander come with only two airbags, one for each of the front occupants. For child seats, Mitsubishi has added ISOFIX mounting points on the outer seats of the rear bench. The Xpander further comes with ABS braking with an electronic brake-force distribution system. The body of the vehicle is built with an all-direction collision reinforced impact safety evolution (RISE) body construction which includes side-impact bars.
Centrally fitted on the dashboard is a touchscreen infotainment system that is compatible with CD, USB and Bluetooth connectivity. The Bluetooth offer voice control while the audio system can be easily commanded from the multifunction steering wheel. The interior also offers 120 Watt power sockets on each row of seating for charging devices.
3. Powertrain
The Mitsubishi Xpander comes fitted with a naturally aspirated, 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor. Customers can choose between either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic. The aluminium block engine comes with Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system which adjusts the timing of all 16 valves for optimal efficiency.
In combination with the ECI multipoint fuel injection, the Xpander produce 77 kW and 141 Nm of torque. Customers of automatic variants can expect a combined average fuel consumption return of 7.0L/100 km while manual drivers will be able to achieve 6.9L/100 km.
