The Malaysian automotive market will soon be hit by Mitsubishi Xpander, a 7-seater crossover MPV that combines functionality with SUV-inspired styling. Recently, Mitsubishi has announced its early arrival as part of the ASEAN roll-out programme, along with the fact that it will be a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) model, locally assembled at the brand's manufacturing facility in Pekan, Pahang.
Although it’s not launched in Malaysia yet, the crossover-MPV has proved to be a great success with its high sales figures and multiple awards in our neighbouring countries, including “The Best MPV Under 1,600cc." "Philippines 2019 Automobile of the Year,” and more.
With such an image, the Xpander is about to bring additional competition to the segment that already has some popular names. Toyota Avanza is one such name that holds a strong position in the segment for a long time. Its revised iteration came as a fresh breeze last year.
Design and dimensions
Featuring a dynamic shield front grille up front, with bumper-embedded headlamps and elegant daytime running lights, the Mitsubishi Xpander has a rough look. The car runs on 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and has sporty LED tail lamps that add to its futuristic outlook with more sophistication. In comparison, a sportier bumper, grille, dapper LED headlamps, and 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels are also featured in the updated Avanza.
The Mitsubishi Xpander is longer, wider and taller than its Japanese equivalent when it comes to dimensions; its wheelbase is also bigger, resulting in better space inside the car. And, if we see the level of ground clearance here, the Xpander is still the clear winner. The automaker claims it can readily wade through shallow water. In the following table, check out their detailed measurements.
(Source: ZigWheels)
Engine and performance
The Xpander integrates a smaller engine under the massive body and the same is the case with the Toyota Avanza. Both are powered by a 1.5L engine producing equivalent output at the same rev range, but the Xpander has a higher torque level at a lower rev range.
While the Toyota Avanza only comes with automatic transmission, the Xpander comes with more options with both manual and automatic transmissions. Since that’s the case with the Philippines market, we hope that Mitsubishi will carry both options to Malaysia as well. The crossover has a claimed best-in-class fuel economy of 22.9 kmpl, coming to the Xpander's highest point, crushing the rival with a big gap.
(Source: ZigWheels)
Interior & Features
Both Mitsubishi Xpander and Toyota Avanza come with a touchscreen “infotainment” system, with slight differences in size and connectivity. Mitsubishi Xpander is featured with a 7-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity with mirror link while Toyota Avanza has a 6.75-inch touch-multimedia system with Bluetooth, internet connectivity, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay support.
Besides, the seat material for both models is fabric, and both come with dual airbags.
While Mitsubishi Xpander comes with a push start/stop button, hill start assist, active stability control and cruise control, Toyota Avanza is featured with rear parking sensors with reversing camera, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
The Toyota Avanza price starts at RM 77,963, available in three trims. Although the Mitsubishi Xpander is not launched in Malaysia yet, it is expected to be around RM 78,900, which means that both models will be around similar price range.
We believe that you might be struggling with making a purchasing decision. Basically, Mitsubishi Xpander appeals broadly with its SUV-ish style, roominess, better tech, and mileage, which today’s consumers want. If you also aspire for these, you can hold back your purchase. And if not, the Avanza from a brand known for its legendary reputation for reliability is there for you with a decent performance and features list.
Anyway, you still have time to consider until Mitsubishi Malaysia launches the new Xpander.
Always hit us up if you need any further information or assistance. We are always happy to help.