By Otsile Kadiege 

One of Mitsubishi’s best-selling models locally is the Xpander. In a bid to remain competitive and relevant, the MPV recently went to the surgeon for a mid-life refresh.

Updated exterior design 

Upgrades to the exterior include more enhanced SUV styling thanks to a new front face incorporating T-shaped headlamps. A new generation lighting signature features halogen headlamps, fog lamps and more pronounced LED daytime running lights. The rear has been given a modern look with the addition of upgraded LED taillights, in addition to a high-mounted stop lamp and position light.

The Xpander’s exceptional ground clearance has been improved from 205 mm to 225mm thanks to the upgraded sporty 16-inch alloy wheels on manual models, while automatic derivatives ride on 17-inch alloys.

The increase in ground clearance also means increases in approach, departure and breakover angles.

Updated interior

Inside, driver comfort is ensured through a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication. Additional comfort features include standard SDA Android Auto, Apple CarPlay multimedia system worth R12,000. The rear-view camera has a high resolution that delivers optimal visibility and a wide field of vision.  

The upgraded Xpander has grown 120mm in length, which translates into improved interior space. Its second- and third-row seats have a 60/40 split, while the seats of the third row can be folded completely flat and stowed to create additional space in the cargo area. 

Safety

The new Xpander features a range of innovative safety features as standard. These include airbags for the driver and front passenger, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), as well as an impact-absorbing structure at the front-end of the vehicle. Additional safety for young occupants is provided through ISOFIX child seat anchors.

The Xpander also benefits from an advanced all-direction collision reinforced impact safety evolution (RISE) body construction with side impact bars. Coming-home and welcome lights enhance the overall safety, security and practicality.

Powertrain

Powering the updated Xpander is a  1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine. This powerplant features Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronically Control (MIVEC) system and Electronically Controlled Injection (ECI) multipoint fuel injection resulting in 77kW at 6 000 r/min and 141Nm at 4 000 r/min.

The claimed average fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 6.7l/100 km for the manual derivative and 7.0l/100 km for the automatic derivative.

Pricing and warranty 

Xpander 1.5L M/T – R329 995

Xpander 1.5L A/T – R349 995

The new Mitsubishi Xpander is covered by a three-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year/30 000 km service plan. The price also includes five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance.