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2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift, 5 things u need to know – First Drive

91_NEW EXPANDER MEDIA DRIVE_20240925

Despite arriving to the Malaysian market quite late, the Mitsubishi Xpander has managed to become the best-selling non-national MPV, with over 40,000 units sold.

We believe the influence of the Xpander will strengthen here with the introduction of the Xpander 2024 facelift model, which was launched last month.

Especially for fathers looking for a suitable vehicle for family use.

Last week, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia invited media practitioners to experience the driving experience of the Xpander facelift heading towards Malacca.

Based on the drive, what we can conclude is that the Xpander facelift can still be an ideal vehicle for contemporary family use.

Here are 5 things u need to know after driving the Xpander facelift:

 

1. More modern exterior appearance


Overall, the design of the Xpander has not changed much, except for the front fascia that now features a more modern and sleek Dynamic Shield design.

The T-shaped LED headlamps are enhanced with a cluster of LED lights that combine daytime running lights (DRL) and turn indicator lights.

The grille design also looks sleeker on the facelift model.

For the rear end, the redesigned lamp shape now features a T-shaped graphic that contributes to the changes in the rearview mirror shape.

Those opting for the Xpander Plus variant will receive additional features such as window visors and a black rear spoiler that is not overly aggressive but still manages to provide a sporty image.

Lastly, all four wheel arches are fitted with 17-inch rims wrapped in Bridgestone Ecopia tires.

 

2. More refined cabin space

Significant changes have been made to the cabin space, where the layout of the dashboard is now more refined.

As standard, the Xpander facelift still offers a 9-inch infotainment screen, a 4.2-inch TFT cluster screen with analog meter display, climate control with a digital display, and a steering wheel inspired by the Evo X sedan.

Despite coming with basic functions, the leatherette-wrapped seats remain comfortable to use, especially for long journeys.

The writer’s favorite feature is the available space provided when the new Xpander facelift replaces the physical handbrake with an electronic brake button.

It looks more organized and at the same time does not make the driving experience of this Xpander less practical.

You should know that the Xpander facelift now comes with several advanced features like wireless Qi smart device charging slot, front and rear driving recorders, and most importantly a 360-degree camera.

The use of soft-touch materials in certain areas also enhances a premium driving experience.

 

3. Practicality for the whole family

Compared to its competitors, the Xpander facelift has its own advantages, namely a more spacious cabin due to its larger dimensions.

There are no issues accommodating passengers in the third row seats as they are indeed comfortable to use.

If there are no additional passengers, the seats can be folded to provide a space of 837 liters, in addition to three additional hidden storage spaces in the cargo area.

Furthermore, there are plenty of small storage spaces provided around the cabin, especially in the door panels, small trays on the dashboard, a drawer under the front passenger seat, and small pockets behind the front seats.

 

4. Driving dynamics


What hasn’t changed with the Xpander facelift is the inline four-cylinder 1.5-liter engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm of power, mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Yes, it sounds somewhat outdated, considering that the average competitor is equipped with CVT or DCT transmissions.

It’s not the most modern gearbox, but it is retained to ensure owners need not worry about the durability and reliability of this component.

As a result, it can be said that the driving experience of the Xpander has not changed much in terms of power delivery and acceleration offered.


It still manages smooth gear changes, and at the same time, the issue of gear hunting does not haunt the driver during downshifts or hill climbs.

We experienced this on winding roads around Hulu Langat, but for regular highway driving, the engine and gearbox combination is more than sufficient.

At the same time, we can feel that the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels in the Xpander facelift cabin have improved compared to the previous model.

The engine noise is effectively filtered, while wind noise is only noticeable after exceeding 160 km/h.

 

5. Handling

Another aspect that makes the writer understand why the Xpander is the top choice is the comfort it offers.

If the previous Xpander already proved its own comfort for long journeys, this Xpander facelift takes it up another notch.

According to Mitsubishi, the rear suspension of this MPV has been retuned with larger shock absorbers to ensure a more comfortable driving experience.

It’s not surprising that we struggled to feel any significant roughness when the tires met uneven road surfaces.

To say the handling is on par with the Evo X would be a lie. But the Xpander facelift can be well-controlled on straight roads as well as on winding roads without disturbing the comfort of passengers in the back.


However, due to the higher ground clearance (225 mm), stability is felt to be somewhat lacking, especially when traversing crosswinds on the highway.

This may also be due to the use of Bridgestone Ecopia tires, which were felt to have less grip compared to the Toyo Proxes CR1 tires used in the previous model, although they are quieter.

One thing for sure, as a driver of the Xpander facelift, you need not worry about traversing uneven routes in rural and suburban areas, thanks to the higher ground clearance package compared to other competitors.

Based on the test drive conducted recently, the Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 facelift seems to be a viable choice for families in Malaysia, especially for those who prioritize comfort and practicality.

 

Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 (facelift) specifications
Engine: inline four-cylinder 1.5-liter MIVEC
Power: 105 PS @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 141 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed Automatic
Drive: Front-Wheel Drive
Price: from RM99,980

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