After a bit of teasing, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) officially unveils its Next-Generatiion Multipurpose Vehicle, dubbed the Mitsubishi Xpander, at the 25th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show.
The newest member of the Mitsubishi vehicle line-up boasts a combination of MPV lines and SUV looks, style and functionality, convenience and comfort, and ruggedness and roominess in one handsome package. It takes a cue from the brand’s long-standing adventurous SUV spirit and blends this with today’s popular MPV versatility.
As seen from teaser photos a few weeks back, the exterior takes a page from Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield styling language, as seen from offerings such as the Montero Sport, Outlander, and the new Eclipse Cross. This is mixed with aggressive fender flares, a floating roof, and uniquely-styled head- and taillights.
The front fascia alone is noteworthy in that it puts the position lamps high up, while the headlamps are set lower. Such a design, Mitsubishi says, provides more than adequate lighting in any road and driving condition.
Stepping inside, the Mitsubishi Xpander has more than ample space for seven adults and their gear. The seats—with 60:40 second- and 50:50 third-row seatbacks—can be configured a number of ways for various passenger and cargo carrying options. Each seat even gets its own smartphone tray, while 12V power ports, as well as airconditioning vents keep passengers connected and cool at all times.
The driver, meanwhile, is kept well-informed by a large LED color display that shows everything from fuel economy to various vehicle data. There is even a welcome message, along with cool Welcome and Coming Home lighting when drivers lock and unlock the vehicle. This, by the way, is done via Keyless Operation System for keyless locking and engine starts.
Speaking of engines, the Mitsubishi Xpander is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder motor with MIVEC variable valve timing. This gives is an adequate 105hp, coursed to the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. And with 205mm of ground clearance, the Xpander is well-suited to tackle rough roads and flooded streets.
The all-new Mitsubishi Xpander will be assembled at the new Mitsubishi factory in Bekasi Prefecture, West Java Province, Indonesia. Mitsubishi is targeting an output of 80,000 units a year, with exports to other markets. Sales will begin in the fourth quarter of this year in Indonesia, with other markets following in 2018.
