Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) has officially launched its highly anticipated all-new cross multi-purpose, sport utility vehicle in the country.
The Philippines is the second country to launch the all-new Mitsubishi XPANDER after its debut at the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show in Jakarta, Indonesia late last year. This vehicle will be offered in four (4) variants starting off with the GLX Manual Transmission (MT), GLX Plus Automatic Transmission (AT), GLS AT and top of the line GLS Sport AT. This all-new model is produced at Mitsubishi Motors Corp.’s (MMC) new factory in Bekasi Prefecture, Indonesia.
Exterior
The exterior flaunts Mitsubishi Motors’ Dynamic Shield design concept with a luxurious front grille, which will be available in chrome with clear smoke coating for GLS Sport and GLS variants and gloss black for GLX Plus and GLX variants. The new model features crystal-like LED lamps and a unique headlight design with a lamp layout that improves visibility for both pedestrians and oncoming vehicles.
This unique lamp layout also prevents the blinding effects of headlight glare. It also flaunts a distinctive L-shaped LED Tail Lamps with the rear combination lamps extending onto the tailgate which is a first for this class. To give the model a touch of sportiness, the all-new XPANDER is equipped with 15-inch Alloy Wheels for GLX variant and 16-inch Two-Tone Alloy for GLX Plus, GLS and GLS Sport variants.
Interior and Convenience
The 4,475 mm long overall length of the XPANDER blends a stylish and roomy character lines with tough and dynamic SUV looks. A class-leading interior length 2,840 mm provides a comfortable space for maximum of seven adults. It also features a layout that lets passengers enter and exit the vehicle with ease. Access to third row seats is also made easier with the tumbling system for folding the second row seats. For an even more comfortable ride, the armrest in second row is a part of seat back which can be utilized as a large armrest to accommodate two passengers’ elbows or center space which can be used to load long items.
The XPANDER has a high 205 mm ground clearance which results in a high seating position, the body is optimized for clear visibility with reduced blind spots. The front windshield with ample vertical and horizontal spacing also provides clearer forward visibility. The XPANDER’s front pillars are positioned wider to provide more visibility while the side mirrors ensures a clearer rear view. For luggage capacity, the XPANDER is the only vehicle in its class that has a flat luggage floor without bumps and gaps. Its maximum cargo capacity is 1,630 liters when both the second and third row seats are folded. The seats can be arranged in various combinations to accommodate different type of cargo.
For a more enjoyable drive the GLX Plus, GLS, and GLS Sport variants XPANDER are equipped with a 2-DIN 7-inch capacitive touchscreen which has GPS Navigation System, MP3 player/Tuner with Auxiliary-in, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, and Easy Link feature. The steering wheel is also equipped with Audio Remote Switch and Cruise Control for easier control during driving.
Aside from outstanding interior roominess and comfort, XPANDER also offers superior convenience to its passengers by providing several storages / pockets for valuables and various small items. 12V power outlets are also readily available for first, second and third row passengers for more convenient trips.
Engine and Performance
The all-new XPANDER is equipped with a 1.5L 4A91 MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control System) DOHC 16-Valve engine which gives a maximum output of 105 PS/6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 141 N-m / 4,000 rpm.
The 4A91 engine enables the XPANDER to have less vibration and less noise for smooth and quiet driving performance.
Safety
The XPANDER features Mitsubishi Motors’ proprietary RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body which is reinforced to absorb the impact of a collision. It is also equipped with ABS (Anti-locking Braking System) to help keep the driver in control of the vehicle when braking on slippery surfaces. When the driver brakes hard or activates ABS, the ESS (the Emergency Stop Signal System) activates and automatically flashes the hazard lamps to warn the drivers behind to help prevent rear end collision.
The top of the line GLS Sport variant is also equipped with Hill Start Assist and Active Stability Control. The Hill Start Assist feature automatically maintains the brakes to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when driving on a steep slope. Meanwhile, the Active Stability Control automatically apply brakes and suppress the engine output at the same time in order to stabilize the vehicle during sudden maneuver on slippery surface conditions. Provided with these top-of-class safety features, XPANDER gained a four-star safety rating in the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (ASEAN NCAP).
Visit your nearest Mitsubishi Motors outlet to know more about the all-new XPANDER or check out xpander.mmpc.ph to get vehicle information and updates.