Mitsubishi Xpander was first revealed in Indonesia back in 2017. Post that, the automaker introduced the MPV in several ASEAN countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. We here in Malaysia were also expecting Xpander's launch for a long time, and it was only recently that the automaker confirmed the news.

Mitsubishi Motor Malaysia (MMM) chief executive officer, Tomoyuki Shinnishi, said, "The Xpander is not just an important model for MMM, but across the ASEAN region as well. As of June 2020, the car has reached cumulative sales of around 256,000 units." He further added, "MMM is very excited for a thrilling year ahead with the introduction of this impressive seven-seater crossover in Malaysia later this year."

MMM has not given the car's exact launch date, and the specifications are also undercover. The Xpander is available in two variants - standard and Cross, however which one will we get is still a mystery.

We know that the local-spec Xpander will be the facelifted version introduced in Indonesia a few months back. How? Well, that's because of the sheer resemblance between the recent spy shot and the facelifted model.

So what the new Xpander is all about, and what should you expect? Read on to find out.

Exterior

The Mitsubishi Xpander showcases several exterior elements that give the MPV a sportier and visually appealing look. To begin with, at the front, the Xpander showcases a slightly tweaked Dynamic Shield grille featuring a large brand logo and reshaped louvres. Based on the variant, the MPV is expected to feature LED headlamps, halogen fog lamps, 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels, shark fin antenna, LED rear combination lamp, reverse sensor, and rear defogger.

In terms of dimensions, the seven-seater MPV measures 4,475 mm long, 1,750 mm wide, 1,730/1,695 mm long (depending on the variant). The car's wheelbase and ground clearance read 2,775 mm and 205/200 mm, respectively.

Expected colour options: Quartz White Pearl, Sterling Silver Metallic, Graphite Grey Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Red Metallic, and Deep Bronze Metallic.

Interior

Now coming to the interior, the car showcases beige or black upholstery based on the variant. The chrome and wood trims add to the car's sophisticated yet stylish interior. The Xpander also offers a flexible seating arrangement that helps the owner transform the vehicle according to the need.

All three-rows offer many storage options, and it is a much-needed feature in a big-family car. It also gets a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a hands free switch, and the gear knob too is covered in leather, given the entire car an upscale feel. On the connectivity front is the wide 2DIN touchscreen audio system with AM/FM, USB player, iPhone/iPad, iPod, voice recognition, Bluetooth, and smartphone connectivity.

Engine

The soon to be launched Mitsubishi Xpander is expected to source its power from a 1.5-litre MIVEC DOHC 16 Valve engine that develops a maximum power of 105 PS at 6,000 rpm along with a peak torque of 141 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The said mill is coupled with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox that directs the power to the front wheels.

Safety Features

Like all the other Mitsubishi vehicles, the Xpander is a solid car built on RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body that enhances collision safety performance. The car features the following safety features -

• Power window timer
• Auto-off function headlight
• Auto door relock system
• Lane change turn signal system
• ABS+EBD
• Brake assist
• Dual SRS airbag
• ISOFIX child anchor
• Active stability & traction control control
• Hill start assist
• Parking sensor + Rear view camera
• Keyless operating system
• Immobilizer with security alarm

As for the pricing, Mitsubishi Malaysia has not given any details. Still, taking clues from the Indonesia-spec model, the MPV is expected to range between RM 63,625 to RM 80,364. However, exact information about the car will be revealed once the Xpander gets launched.

Also Read: Check out the all-new Mitsubishi Xpander Cross