The Mitsubishi Xpander, originally unveiled in 2017 as a crossover MPV, has received visual, technological, and mechanical updates for 2022. The facelifted model will debut at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) on November 11.
Starting with the looks, the Xpander
benefits from a redesigned face retaining the dual-headlight setup and the
Dynamic Shield, but with a more adventurous and techy styling approach. The
main headlights are now T-Shaped while a new skid plate makes it look more
rugged. At the back, the tailgate and the rear bumper adopt a modern SUV-like
appearance while the LED taillights are slimmer and more in line with
Mitsubishi’s latest offerings.
The design changes have increased the
length of the Xpander, adding 75 mm on the front overhang and 45
mm on the rear overhang. Additionally, the ride height was
increased by 15-20 mm allowing an impressive ground clearance
of 220-225 mm which matches the Xpander Cross. Finally,
Mitsubishi added the Blade Silver Metallic to the color palette plus new
designs for the 16-inch and 17-inch wheels.
Inside, the dashboard has been redesigned
with a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, a new steering wheel, new controls for
the air conditioning with an integrated screen, and plenty of synthetic leather
with stitching. The handbrake is now electronic, freeing space for a large
storage area in the center console, plus USB charging outlets. The model
retains the three-row cabin layout with room for up to seven passengers.
Under the bonnet, the naturally aspirated
1.5-liter engine producing 103 hp and 141 Nm of
torque is cleaner thanks to the addition of an EGR (exhaust gas recirculation)
system. The big news is that the old four-speed automatic gearbox is replaced
by a more modern CVT transmission which sends power to the front axle.
Mitsubishi has also improved the rigidity of the front suspension while adding
larger rear shock absorbers and high-performance valves in both axles for a
more comfortable ride.
As with its predecessor, the facelifted
Xpander will be produced at the Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha factory in
Indonesia. Availability will start soon from Indonesia, with other markets
following a bit later. Between 2017 and 2021, Mitsubishi has sold 372,000 units
of the Xpander in ASEAN, the Middle East, Latin America, South Asia, and Africa
regions.