Phoenix risen: The Mitsubishi Xpander Cross

Xpander Cross

Back in 2018,  Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) has ceased selling its Adventure—which is one of the best-sellers in its segment. But from the same ashes that the Adventure left came the Xpander.

Introducing it back in 2017, Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi enjoyed an instantaneous hit with the Xpander MPV offering. Some two years following its global debut, the Xpander, well, uhmm—expanded its lineup with the Xpander Cross.

But is it as dependable as it predecessor—more so, will it enjoy the same popularity? Kindly read on to find out.

Xpander Cross

Dimensions

Comparing it to the regular Xpander, the Xpander Cross has an upgraded dimension: it is 25 millimeters (mm) longer, 50 mm wider and 50 mm taller than mid-variants, which gives it an extra chunk of muscle in its overall look.

With a wheelbase of 2,775 mm, the Xpander Cross—just like all variants—gives the front and middle passenger sufficient legroom to enjoy without getting cramps. However, I cannot say the same for the rear occupants as just like most vehicles in its category, the space for seating is not as generous at the back.

Xpander Cross

The ground clearance of the Xpander Cross is higher by up to 25 mm (225mm, as compared base model GLX’s 200mm), making it a trusty city workhorse, where flooding is quite a norm.

Xpander Cross

Exterior

Making it a head-turner are its dagger lines and sharp angles. These are complemented by the “Dynamic Shield design” for its front fascia, making it a smaller version of the Montero. This houses the LED headlights and fog lights.  Although it would confuse many where the headlamps are housed because it is unconventionally placed lower than what we are accustomed to, it dishes ample lighting on the road.

The 17” two-tone alloy wheels are quite a solid design (an inch larger than the other Xpander variety). However, it seems that the wheels still looks small as they sit quite deep in the fenders.

While the one we tried is the Quartz White Pearl, it is also available in Sunrise Orange—both appealing for its overall design. 

Xpander Cross

Interior

Inside the Xpander Cross is the dark brown/black leather set; very homely colors.  While there are still a lot of plastic components, these would ensure that you would not have trouble wiping dirt away.

The steering wheel does not wear too much buttons, signifying that it is designed more for city slickers. Also, the seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system needs to be updated as it has yet to be Apple CarPlay or Android Auto-capable.

Xpander Cross

Just like the Mitsubishi Adventure, the Xpander Cross has its own air-conditioner control located in the middle portion that can be adjusted independently from the front climate control.

Xpander Cross

Engine

Powering the Xpander Cross is the 1.5-liter In-line DOHC 16-valve MIVEC engine (4A91 model), which on paper, can provide 103 horsepower and 141 Nm torque. Experiencing a very horrible traffic condition Metro Manila traffic, it still clocked 8.3 kilometers per liter (average speed is 14.kilometers per hour, covering 135 kilometers). On expressways, it was able to sip around 13 kilometers per liter of gasoline—good numbers for such a big-bodied vehicle. You could just imagine what more it could do if it is on CVT.

Xpander Cross

 Features

Very noticeable on the Xpander Cross is that you can enjoy very low noise from the outside on usual city driving speeds, giving you just enough NVH to know the vehicles around you. It also has enough cubbyholes so every passenger can place one drink inside the vehicle.

The infotainment system has six speakers that can play your music from your mobile device, which, in turn, can be connected via Bluetooth or AUX cable.

Xpander Cross

Just like the GLS variant, it has active stability control, traction control, hill start assist while having the standard dual front airbags, anti-brake lock system, electronic brake force distribution, ISOFIX and tether anchors and the emergency stop signal.

Conclusion

Since Filipino families are fond of carrying loads of cargo and passengers, the Xpander would definitely meet their needs. Perfectly filling the void that the then-successful Mitsubishi Adventure left, the Xpander Cross can be depicted as the rising phoenix in the Japanese automaker’s lineup—upgrading the look for the utilitarian workhorse.

Photos from Ruben D. Manahan IV

Also read:

Mitsubishi officially unveils Xpander Cross for PH market

Xpander Cross Launch Cancelled

Mitsubishi Ups the Ante with Xpander Cross

Explore Mitsubishi Xpander Cross

Mitsubishi Car Models

Mitsubishi Cars
  • Mitsubishi Strada
    Mitsubishi Strada
  • Mitsubishi Montero Sport
    Mitsubishi Montero Sport
  • Mitsubishi Mirage
    Mitsubishi Mirage
  • Mitsubishi L300
    Mitsubishi L300
  • Mitsubishi Mirage G4
    Mitsubishi Mirage G4
Read All

Featured Articles

Recommended Articles For You

Read All

Featured Mitsubishi Cars

  • Upcoming

Compare & Recommended

Trending MPV

  • Upcoming

Mitsubishi Xpander Cross Car Articles From Zigwheels

  • News
  • Article Feature
  • Road Test
  • Mitsubishi unboxes hybrid Xpander models in Thailand, is PH next?
    Mitsubishi unboxes hybrid Xpander models in Thailand, is PH next?
    Paulo Papa . Feb 02, 2024
  • Mitsubishi PH launches 'Taralets Pinas' campaign
    Mitsubishi PH launches 'Taralets Pinas' campaign
    Paulo Papa . Jan 04, 2024
  • Mitsubishi PH launches limited-run Xpander Cross Outdoor Edition
    Mitsubishi PH launches limited-run Xpander Cross Outdoor Edition
    Ruben Manahan IV . Oct 03, 2023
  • Mitsubishi PH unveils 2023 Xpander Cross
    Mitsubishi PH unveils 2023 Xpander Cross
    Hazel Nicole Carreon . Jan 26, 2023
  • Mitsubishi Xpander Cross named Best Compact Carrier in 17th C! Awards
    Mitsubishi Xpander Cross named Best Compact Carrier in 17th C! Awards
    Dylan Afuang . Nov 12, 2021
  • The Pros and Cons of Mitsubishi Xpander Cross
    The Pros and Cons of Mitsubishi Xpander Cross
    Hazel Nicole Carreon . Jun 13, 2023
  • Rugged family rides: 2023 Honda BR-V vs. 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross
    Rugged family rides: 2023 Honda BR-V vs. 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross
    Dylan Afuang . Feb 02, 2023
  • More than just a kit | 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross
    More than just a kit | 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross
    Roy Robles . Jan 30, 2023