Mitsubishi Xpander: Priced at RM 100,980, a perfect combination of comfort, spaciousness and fashion

The Mitsubishi Xpander is a 7-seater B-Segment SUV, offering one specification in Malaysia, and locally assembled (CKD) in the state of Pahang. Before entering the Malaysian market, the Xpander has already made waves in Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. Hence, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has high expectations for the Xpander's performance in the local market.

In terms of exterior design, the Mitsubishi Xpander adopts the new generation Dynamic Shield design language similar to its sibling model, the Mitsubishi Triton. The slim rooftop light design combined with the large lights on the bumper makes this SUV look more bold and fierce than it actually is. The Xpander's exterior design is not only futuristic, but also very in line with modern consumers' aesthetic needs for SUVs.

Mitsubishi has a rich history in the rally racing field. Therefore, benefit from Mitsubishi's suspension tuning technology, the Xpander is able to easily absorb every bump and flaw on the road. Whether seated in the front row or the back row, passengers can enjoy a just-right ride feel. This feature allows the Xpander to provide a comfortable driving experience on various road conditions.

Compared to the Toyota Veloz, the Xpander's third-row seating provides ample space of head and leg for rear passengers. The full leather seats feature quilted design, elevating the luxury feel of the Xpander's interior. Whether on long journeys or daily commuting, rear passengers can enjoy a great deal of comfort.

Compared with Honda BR-V and Toyota Veloz, Xpander's body size has advantages in width and length, and the wheelbase is longer. Although the size of the vehicle does not necessarily translate directly into internal space, Mitsubishi has done an excellent job in the utilization of every inch of space. Xpander is very excellent in space utilization, providing spacious riding and storage space.

Xpander surpasses Honda in practicality. Not only do passengers have ample legroom, but Mitsubishi also ensures there is plenty of storage space in the car. There is even a shoe rack in the trunk, which is undoubtedly a highlight for many female users. And the second and third row seats can be completely lowered, providing up to 1630 liters of luggage space. There are 18 bottle/cup holders in the Mitsubishi Xpander, so no one will feel thirsty during long trips.

According to fuel efficiency tests, Xpander's 1.5-liter Mivec engine has a fuel consumption of 16.5 kilometers per liter at an average speed of 90 kilometers per hour on highways. In congested city traffic, the fuel consumption is 12 kilometers per liter. For a seven-seat SUV, this kind of fuel economy performance is quite good.

The Xpander in the Malaysian market is equipped with a 9-inch touch screen display, which supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connections. For audio enthusiasts, Xpander's audio system is a huge improvement compared to the Honda BR-V and Toyota Rush. And the large touch screen display and advanced audio system make the driving experience more enjoyable.

The Mitsubishi Xpander is equipped with 4 cameras that can project a 360-degree bird's eye view. Mitsubishi calls it Around View Monitor (ARM), which, combined with the large SUV's parking sensor, makes parking a breeze. Whether in a narrow parking lot or on a busy street, the 360-degree camera provides great convenience and safety.

For the driver, the Xpander's steering wheel can not only move up and down, but also adjust forward and backward. Even though the seating position of the Xpander feels like an MPV, the adjustable steering wheel lets driver find the perfect driving position. This design allows drivers of different heights to find a comfortable driving position.

It cannot be denied that the four-speed automatic transmission feels a bit dated and is not quite suitable for the Xpander, making the engine noise a bit noticeable when driving at high speeds. The transmission also has a certain effect on the Xpander's fuel efficiency, it would be better if it had one more gear or a CVT. Like the Honda BR-V, the Xpander is only equipped with two airbags, but it receives a four-star rating in the ASEAN NCAP safety test.

The Mitsubishi Xpander strikes a perfect balance between comfort, spaciousness, and fashion, while also having good driving dynamics. Though the Xpander is lacking in areas such as transmission and safety systems, with a price of RM 100,980, it remains a very worthwhile choice for purchase. If you're looking for a car that combines comfort, practicality, and value for money for the family, the Mitsubishi Xpander is undoubtedly a good choice.