Our world today is so fast paced that we always look for what is “new” and “different” to keep up with our constant needs. From our phones to laptops and other technologies around us, the world is constantly giving us something new. Something different. Something bigger and better than the previous model they’ve released.
Now, the same logic applies with the automotive industry and Mitsubishi isn’t a stranger to that. So for Mitsubishi to keep up with the times, they’ve decided to make an “expanded” version of their current MPV, the XPander, and gave it a huge upgrade. Thus, the new Mitsubishi XPander Cross is born.
Exterior:
The exterior of the XPander Cross is a lot more aggressive and rugged than its previous models. Starting with Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield Design which gives the car a very futuristic “transformer” looking front end. Along with that, it has LED lights all the way from top to bottom.
In addition, the car features a higher ground clearance of 225mm (which I may add is very useful and practical on Philippine roads due to the roads being prone to flood) along with bigger 17” alloy wheels, silver faux skid plates, roof rails, and black plastic trims/claddings wrapped around the car which makes it look more sporty than usual.
Interior:
Now when it comes to the interior, the 7-Seater MPV features a two tone interior that starts from its side panels, dashboard, and even on its leather seats! Sadly, most of the interior is covered in plastic but honestly, you wont really notice it that much because the looks of the interior is aesthetically pleasing.
The center console has basic knobs and switches for your A/C Control along with a 7 inch touchscreen that features a reverse camera but sadly doesn’t have Apple Car Play and Andriod Auto. It may be a bit behind on infotainment features, but it has a USB Port, AUX jack, and 12V sockets around the cabin from the front up to the very back seat of the car. And to top it all off, the rear has their own A/C Vents which is the most important feature of them all since it can be pretty hot within the day.
Space & Practicality:
The XPander Cross really didn’t hold back when it comes to space because it LITERALLY has a ton of space! And when I say “a ton of space” I do mean A TON OF SPACE. The XPander Cross offers plenty of storage spaces hidden all around the cabin like easter eggs in a Marvel or DC movie. To name a few, it has “cubby holes” hidden at the trunk and it also has a pull out tray underneath the passenger seat which for me is very convenient since I carry a lot of stuff with me.
Head room and leg room is actually pretty great except on the third row which is a bit of a squeeze unless if you move the second row seats completely. Although, coming in to the third row seats isn’t that much of a hassle because you can also fold the second row seats as well, which means you can go in and out of the third row with ease. I’m not gonna lie, having this much space in an MPV makes the XPander Cross very practical compared to its competitors.
Engine & Drive:
Underneath the hood, we have a 1.5L inline-4 MIVEC Gasoline engine that packs on 105HP and 141Nm of torque along with a standard 4-speed automatic transmission. Sadly, the XPander Cross is a bit underpowered for me as it takes too long to shift and changes its gears when you’re planning to overtake.
But in return, the XPander Cross is actually fuel efficient averaging about 9-13km/L in the city and about 13-15km/L on highways which isn’t bad at all. Now what got me with the XPander Cross is how it feels when it runs because it is such a comfort to drive! With its improved platform/chassis that gives the car better comfort with coil springs at all four wheels, it feels like you’re floating in the clouds while driving it. In my opinioin, the overall driving experience of this car is smooth and very comfortable.
Verdict:
All I could say is that the XPander Cross will definitely give you the value of your money. Yes, sure, it may be a bit expensive compared to its competitors, but the comfort, space, and practicality of this car is where your money is at. Mitsubishi really went all out in giving the XPander an upgrade with the XPander Cross because not only that it gives you a second look on its appearance but also on its performance, which is something we should all take in consideration for.
Price: ₱1.255 Million (SRP)
Photos by: Glover Reselosa
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