Is Mitsubishi Malaysia About To Expand Its Portfolio With The Xpander?

Mitsubishi could certainly use a shot in the arm for its local portfolio and it looks like they’ll be expanding their model line-up here sooner rather than later with the aptly named Xpander seven-seater that’s been spotted undisguised at a local Mitsubishi facility.

The glimmering black Xpander popped up on the Facebook profile of Jamaan Abd Rahman and was in the midst of being loaded on a flatbed for transportation; either to be taken on a roadshow or for the imminent launch.

First debuted in Indonesia, the entry-level seven-seater is produced over there in Bekasi Prefecture on the outskirts of Jakarta, West Java. From there, it makes its way to other Asean markets such as Thailand.

Once launched here, the Xpander will be taking the fight to the likes of the Perodua Aruz, Toyota Rush and segment leader Honda BR-V. Intimidating company indeed but the Xpander name isn’t a play on the word “expand” for nothing as it boasts class-leading interior room as well as up to 16 cup holders amongst its many storage compartments.

There’s only a single engine-option offered and that’s a 1.5-litre four-cylinder MIVEC petrol engine producing 103hp with 141Nm of torque. Manuals are available in other markets but expect only the four-speed automatic to be sold here.

In Thailand, there are five variants with features such as rear air-conditioning vents, LED exterior lighting, a 4.2-inch TFT display with 3D animation, leather seats and a voice-command infotainment system.

Pricing for the Indonesian market starts at 215.8 million Rupiah (RM65,504) and goes up to 272.1 million Rupiah (RM82,593).

Furthermore, the Xpander will also be supplied to Nissan as the next-generation Grand Livina under the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.