Did Mitsubishi Compromise with the New Xpander

Bangladesh, having an ever expanding automotive market, in recent times experiencing a massive shift in general consensus in a growing demand for affordable “big” cars for average family use. This demand is dealt by different manufacturers in their own ways, some more dramatic than others. However, “big” and “affordable” these two adjectives of a vehicle don’t go well together. At least what we have seen so far. But to the contrary of this automotive dilemma, Mitsubishi has come up with the new Xpandar. Meaning they have done something so that “big” and “affordable” these two can go hand in hand. But have they compromised where they shouldn’t have? That is what we were trying to find out in our review of the 7-seater SUV inspired big family size vehicle. Let’s dive into it.

Mitsubishi Xpander is Manufactured in Gazipur at Rancon Auto Industries Ltd. (RAIL) using Japanese technology and standards. This is a major leap for Bangladesh’s automobile industry ultimately resulting in quality, affordability, and faster availability.   

Striking SUV-inspired styling with Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield front design adds up to the overall aggressive notion. 220mm ground clearance, one of the highest in its class, making it suitable for all kinds of roads and ensures peace of mind. LED split-type headlights, bold chrome grille, and sturdy 17” alloy wheels combine in commanding stance.

Spacious 7-seater layout with adult-friendly 3rd-row seating. 2,780mm wheelbase ensures excellent legroom and headroom in all rows. Beating the heat would be super easy by the dual-zone climate control and also not forgetting about the 2nd-row passengers with A/C vents there. 10.3″ touchscreen acts as the central infotainment with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. 3x 12V outlets for easy device charging in every row. Not ignoring the standard features like Smart key with push start, reverse camera, and steering-mounted controls. Premium variant offers: 360° camera, leather-wrapped interior, inbuilt window shades, and roof rails. Safety wasn’t compromised at all. Dual SRS airbags, ABS with Active Stability Control (ASC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

Power coming out of a  1.5L DOHC MIVEC engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm torque. This engine is the refined version of Lancer. It has a reputation of being extremely reliable and fuel efficient among the ASEAN countries. In Bangladesh this engine is very well known to locals so parts and services are available in almost any well operated workshops and issues can be resolved quite easily. Power is being transmitted to the front wheels by a Smooth 4-speed automatic transmission which is optimized for both urban traffic and long highway drives.

In terms of fuel both octane and LPG are compatible with the engine, saving way more cost and offering flexibility. Claimed mileage is 8–9 km/L in city and 14–15 km/L on highways.

There are many different trims to choose from, starting with the Classic (Base Model) coming at BDT 34 lakh. Other variants are Eco (LPG + Octane) – BDT 35 lakh. Premium – BDT 35.5 lakh (360° cam, leather, shades). Sport – BDT 36.5 lakh (sport body kit + full features)

Available in: Jet Black Mica, Graphite Grey Metallic, and White Pearl with more colors launching soon.
Now the question remains if Mitsubishi have compromised with the new Xpander and the answer is mostly no. Yes, they could have done the styling of the interior a bit better and used better material for it but taking the price into consideration, that shouldn’t be the area of focus. Reliability, fuel economy and ride comfort haven’t been compromised.  The Xpander is a complete full sized, spacious, big family oriented, reliable, tech-forward, and affordable beyond any other competitor of the similar category, now made in Bangladesh.