For P1.255M, Is The Mitsubishi Xpander Cross A Solid MPV Choice?

Remember the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross? Well, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) was supposed to hold a  launch event and mall tour of the new Xpander Cross last March 13. However, the Philippine government announced a March 15 lockdown prior to its launch, thus canceling the festivities entirely. Just in case you are not aware, the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross is already on sale in the Philippines with a price tag of P1,255,000.

Okay, so the Xpander Cross is not exactly an SUV, but it at least looks like one. Why create an Xpander Cross in the first place? Well, the Xpander MPV is the country’s best-seller in its category, accounting for 30% of the total sales of MMPC. This, combined with the fact that consumers are interested in anything with body cladding and a raised ground clearance should make the Xpander lineup even more popular.

The Mitsubishi Xpander Cross features quite a number of design changes to set it apart from the standard model. This includes a revised front fascia with new automatic LED headlight and foglight clusters, new 17-inch alloy wheels, black lower rear window garnish, roof rails, and satin silver faux skid plates. However, this is more than just an Xpander with hiking boots as Mitsubishi’s engineers have raised its ground clearance by 20 mm, now at 225 mm.

The Xpander Cross’s interior design largely remains unchanged, though Mitsubishi has given it a more upscale two-tone leather interior. There’s also a new 7-inch touch screen infotainment system for your Bluetooth connection and navigation needs. Practicality remains to be the Xpander’s strength with a foldable rear armrest, partitioned rear seat pockets, as well as foldable second-row (60:40 split) and third-row (50:50 split) seats.

As expected, the Xpander Cross is powered by the same 1.5-liter 4A91 MIVEC petrol engine from the Xpander, which gives a maximum output of 105 hp and 141 Nm. This powers the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic. Mitsubishi claims that the Xpander Cross is the quietest in its class thanks to added high-performance sound insulation and vibration-absorbing materials.

Safety-wise, the Xpander Cross is equipped with dual SRS airbags, emergency stop signal, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, reverse camera, and hill start assist.

Now, for its P1,255,000 price tag, is the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross worth a look? Well, at its current price point, it is currently the most expensive in its segment. However, given that the standard Mitsubishi Xpander provides a solid driving experience that puts it among the top of the class, then the higher entry price for the Xpander Cross could be worth it. Do note, however, that there are Mitsubishi dealers currently offering discounts for the Xpander Cross, so if you’re in the market for a rugged-looking MPV, the Xpander Cross should be worth a look. Of course, a proper review is in order so that we could properly evaluate how this car stacks up against the competition.