WHEN THE BEST GETS EVEN BETTER

The Xpander nameplate has overtaken the Mirage as Mitsubishi’s top sales performer in 2022 and the Cross has contributed much to its success

The Mitsubishi Xpander Cross has been a revelation for Mitsubishi. Since its local introduction in 2020, yes, at the onset of the pandemic lockdowns, the Xpander Cross has been a runaway hit.

As the SUV version of the successful Xpander MPV, the Cross has managed to hold its own in terms of sales. Last year, MMPC managed to roll out 3,799 examples of the SUV-aspiring MPV. This number was second to the top-selling Xpander GLS.

The Xpander nameplate has overtaken the Mirage as Mitsubishi’s top sales performer in 2022. And the Cross has contributed much to its success. This development also shows that there is growing interest in the small seven-seater MPV. And having an SUV iteration adds an exciting and compelling option for car buyers to consider.

Three years later, Mitsubishi finally saw it fit to introduce the updated Xpander Cross. As the second country next to its Indonesian home to receive the raft of design and technical upgrades, the facelifted Xpander Cross attempts to be a relevant offering versus its recently launched competitors. More SUV credentials For 2023, the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross receives not only styling refreshes but also mechanical ones.

The revised Dynamic Shield grille, T-shaped LED headlights and DRLs, and the new front bumper all contribute to a more modern and sleek vibe for the Xpander Cross this year. Coupled with unique 17-inch wheels and a two-tone finish where the pillars and the roof are finished in gloss black, the new look does make the Xpander Cross a more stylish ride than last year’s model.

But Mitsubishi made sure that it is style with substance as the 2023 Xpander Cross is now higher than before with a 225mm ground clearance. To manage the comfort and handling of the taller plat

form, the Xpander Cross gets new suspension components from the Mitsubishi Montero Sport’s parts bin.

The rear shock absorbers are larger than before and tuned for comfort. They should be able to support the vehicle’s weight better while providing a smoother ride.

To further improve on its on-road dynamics, Mitsubishi also infused the 2023 Xpander Cross with Active Yaw Control. A driving aid originally developed for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, AYC, as adapted to the front-wheel drive Xpander Cross keeps it steady and true while cornering through the application of brake force to applicable wheels. Mitsubishi says this will help the driver maintain control of the vehicle especially during wet conditions.

Fresh inside

And speaking of the driver, the 2023 Xpander Cross also receives noticeable upgrades to his side of the cabin. A Montero Sport-inspired steering wheel, along with an 8-inch LCD meter cluster, now makes driving more engaging and intuitive.

The 2023 Xpander Cross cabin is also treated to a navy blue hue, not only on its dashboard but also on its new leatherette-lined seats.

And the upgrades continue into the air conditioning controls, which now sport a digital panel for a more modern interface.

And to cap the revisions inside the cabin, the old manual handbrake lever has been replaced with an electronic parking brake switch. It also has an automatic brake hold function and supports Hill Start Assist. Aside from the obvious braking improvements, EPB also opens up space along the center console for improved convenience and utility.

Tried and tested

Mitsubishi kept two key items untouched, though. One is the 1.5-liter MIVEC DOHC gasoline engine which still has the same 105 PS that 16,309 Xpander and Xpander Cross buyers deemed just right in 2022.

And along with that is the venerable 4-speed automatic transmission which, unlike in Indonesia where the Xpander Cross update received a Continuously Variable Transmission, MMPC deemed still capable for the Philippine market.

Now why mess with success? That was probably the central question in MMPC’s product planning meetings leading up to this year’s launch. It wouldn’t be far off for the competition - the allnew Honda BR-V, the all-new Hyundai Stargazer, the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid, and even the Nissan Livina, to harp their Unique Selling Propositions to eat away at the Xpander and Xpander Cross’ pie.

Only time will tell if the latest round of updates to the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross is enough to convince new car buyers to choose the tried and tested over the fresh and new.