The 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift is now formally launched in Malaysia, every week after order books opened. There are two CKD locally-assembled variants on provide – an everyday one which’s merely known as Xpander, and the higher-spec Plus, priced at RM99,980 and RM109,980 respectively, on-the-road excluding insurance coverage. That is an introductory value for registrations in 2024.
It is probably not very apparent for these within the Klang Valley, however the Xpander has been a hit for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) – since its debut right here in late 2020, the seven-seater MPV has chalked up CKD native manufacturing of 40,000 models over 4 years. As no Xpanders are exported from Pekan, we’re taking a look at native gross sales of virtually 10,000 models a yr. In that interval, it was the best-selling non-national MPV.
The Xpander began life right here as a rival to the Honda BR-V, which second era Honda Malaysia determined to not promote. Since then, Perodua has given us a new Alza, which has a pricier Toyota Veloz twin. P2 additionally has the older Aruz in a price range seven-seater class that bid farewell to the Proton Exora final yr.
This Xpander facelift has been on Indonesian roads for a while now, however this can be a case of higher late than by no means, as Mitsubishi has quietly proved that there’s worthwhile demand for a non-national inexpensive MPV.
What’s new?
We’re taking a look at fairly an enormous facelift that’s dominated by a bolder Dynamic Protect fascia with sideways T-shaped decrease headlights (projector LEDs) and thicker chrome bars. On the again, you’ll discover new taillights with graphics that mimic the headlamps, plus a extra angular rear bumper with vertical reflectors on the edges. New 17-inch blade-style two-tone alloys (one-inch bigger) full the outside adjustments.
The Plus variant is distinguished by silver trim on the entrance and rear decrease bumper sections, in addition to on the aspect skirts (versus full black). There’s additionally a outstanding tailgate spoiler and door visors on the range-topper. By the way in which, that is the common physique and never the extra rugged-flavoured, cladded Xpander Cross.
Inside, there’s a brand new and extra straight-cut dashboard that includes brown artificial leather-based trim items with stitching (additionally on the door playing cards), a free-standing infotainment touchscreen and a brand new (extra easy) steering wheel with a spherical horn pad. Additionally new are the digital show for the aircon (arduous buttons and toggles for fan pace and temp) and an digital parking brake with auto maintain.
The latter replaces the pre-facelift automobile’s handbrake, which frees up area for a centre entrance armrest with out sacrificing the cupholders. Center row passengers get a brand new fold-down centre armrest with cupholders. Behind the brand new entrance armrest are charging ports for the centre row – one USB-A, one USB-C. As normal, there’s a rear blower on the roof with adjustable pace.
Mitsubishi claims higher experience consolation delivered by a retuned suspension setup and bigger rear dampers.
What’s unchanged?
What’s beneath the hood is unchanged. We’re getting a well-known 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Energy from the 4A91 DOHC MIVEC unit is shipped to the entrance wheels through a four-speed computerized gearbox. The latter is exclusive to Malaysia as different markets obtained a CVT for the facelift. Is that this a superb or unhealthy factor?
A CVT is extra environment friendly and would most likely present higher gas financial system, however there are some who’re nonetheless against the stepless transmission, so maybe MMM is aware of its buyer base properly? MMM CEO Shinya Ikeda cites reliability and rapid response as causes, however provides that the CVT is in consideration for the longer term.
Mitsubishi sells a hybrid model in different markets, however trying on the value of the NA automobile in Malaysia, the HEV can be method too costly for our market.
The chassis {hardware} doesn’t deviate from class norms – you get entrance MacPherson struts, a rear torsion beam, entrance ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes, EPS and 205/55 R17 rubber with the already-mentioned bigger wheels. Nevertheless, Mitsubishi can now declare the best floor clearance in its class – 225 mm is 20 mm greater than earlier than and 5 mm larger than the Aruz’s GC, though this benefit isn’t obvious with the bare eye.
Talking of floor clearance, this section has one thing for everybody with a GC vary of 65 mm. The Veloz and Alza have floor clearances of 190 mm and 160 mm respectively; the latter is intentionally car-like as Perodua already has the Aruz for many who like a taller experience. A decrease centre of gravity has advantages in experience and dealing with, plus simpler entry. A taller automobile counters with higher wading/kerb climbing functionality and a extra commanding vantage level – which do you like?
Package, security and practicality
The Xpander facelift’s listing of normal gear contains computerized LED projector headlamps, LED daytime working lights, entrance fog lamps, welcome/coming dwelling lighting, LED flip indicators on the ability fold/regulate wing mirrors, LED hind lights, auto wipers and a shark fin antenna. The wheels are 17-inch dual-tone objects, as talked about.
Inside, you’ll discover keyless entry and push begin, a 4.2-inch color multi-info show (between two analogue dials), 4 USB ports (two entrance, two rear), three 12V sockets (entrance, centre console, third row), auto local weather management with rear air circulator, and tilt/telescopic steering with audio/cruise management buttons. The pinnacle unit is a 9.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, six audio system and reverse digital camera.
The Plus provides on a 360-degree digital camera with information traces, entrance and rear dashcams, wi-fi charger, leatherette seats and scuff plates. Security sensible, the Xpander persists with two airbags and no ADAS, which is beneath par in 2024.
As for colors, apart from the Pink Metallic hero shade, one can select from Quartz White Pearl, Diamond Black Mica or the brand new Graphite Grey, which you’ll be able to try within the gallery beneath.
A word on the practicality features of this MPV – the seven seats are in typical 2-3-2 formation and the center row seats have a one-touch tumble fold perform. The third row folds flat 50:50, and when they’re down, cargo quantity is a beneficiant 495 litres. With the center seats folded, it grows to 837 litres.
At full capability, boot area with all three rows of seats up is comparatively first rate and there’s underfloor storage too. Notable in-cabin storage areas embody pockets of various sizes behind the entrance seats and a tray beneath the entrance passenger seat.
Domestically assembled in Pekan, Pahang, the 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift begins from RM99,980 for the usual variant, rising by RM10k to RM109,980 for the Plus. For context, the pre-facelift’s sticker value was RM100,980. The primary 500 clients who e book and register the Xpander through the its on-line showroom will obtain a Naturehike Tenting Wagon value RM400. The manufacturing facility guarantee is for 5 years, limitless mileage.
Be part of us on a walk-around tour of the refreshed seven-seater beneath and browse the gallery to see each function intimately. What do you consider the Xpander’s new face and package deal? Keep in mind that these ‘Low MPVs’ – as Indonesians name them – aren’t for everybody. Some will scoff at how ‘primary’ they appear, however the area provided and low working prices are exactly what some clients want. In actual fact, MMM is taking a look at growing its MPV section market share (from 12-13% to 14%, in keeping with CEO Shinya Ikeda) with the facelift.
GALLERY: 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander
GALLERY: 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander Plus
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