Mitsubishi gives Xpander seven-seater an upgrade

The load-lugging, people-moving Mitsubishi Xpander has been treated to a refresh.

For 2022, this popular seven-seater benefits from a restyled front-end, sporting a host of cosmetic improvements. These include a pair of new T-shaped halogen headlamps as well as more pronounced LED daytime running lights. Move to the vehicle's rear and you will notice upgraded LED tail light clusters in addition to a high-mounted stop lamp and position light. While they were at it, Mitsubishi also bolted on new alloy wheels (16-inches on the manual models and 17-inches on the automatic); a modification that apparently lifts the vehicle's ground clearance from 205mm to 225mm. 

Jump inside the cabin and you will find the Xpander's increased length (+120mm) has made life roomier than it was in the outgoing model. The second row of seats is fitted with a central armrest as well as an updated rear cooler for improved comfort. Other notable features are automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, electric windows, a front USB port, 120W power sockets for each row of seating as well as many under-seat storage compartments. 

The driver's seat has a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that, among other things, features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication. There's also a standard SDA Android Auto/Apple CarPlay multimedia system linked to a rear-view camera for easier manoeuvring in tight urban environments. 

As before, the Xpander is offered with one engine: a 1.5l four-cylinder petrol that churns out 77kW at 6,000rpm and 141Nm worth of torque at 4,000rpm. It can be paired to either a five-speed manual of four-speed automatic transmission. Mitsubishi claims the former sips 6.9l/100km on the combined cycle, with the latter delivering 7.0l/100km.

Now available at Mitsubishi dealers, pricing for the revised Xpander range is as follows:

1.5 Manual: R329,995

1.5 Automatic: R349,995

Pricing includes a three-year/100,000km warranty, two-year/30,000km service plan and five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance.

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