The Mitsubishi Xpander Cross is a minivan-SUV mashup first introduced to the world three years ago, and now the company has released its facelift. The tough-looking high-riding minivan is not the first rugged family mover from the Japanese automaker. About a decade ago, the company introduced Delica with all-wheel power. However, the Xpander Cross is a front-wheel drive.
Exterior
Mitsubishi revealed the 2023 Xpander Cross at the 2022 Indonesia International Auto Show with lots of changes, but the overall high-riding stance and polarizing look remain the same. Seeing the vehicle from the front, we can notice new headlights with a dividing configuration and a T-styled pattern. The turn indicators now find their place in the upper cluster for better visibility, and the hood gets bulkier than previously.
In the pictures here, the Xpander Cross sports a new Green Bronze Metallic shade. The new design takes the front and back overhangs expanded by around 95 millimeters (3.7 inches). Fresh but still minor 17-inch alloy wheels are there with a two-shade appearance complementing the front and back skid plates and door garnishes.
The T-style headlight pattern we witness on the front is also visible for the taillights giving the half-minivan, half-crossover a fresh look.
Off-roading Prowess
Mitsubishi claims the Xpander comes with 220 millimetres (8.6 inches) of ground clearance, which is good for bumpy paths. However, the Cross is not an off-roader. Yes, this family hauler has a new Active Yaw Control (AYC), but do not mistake it with an active rear differential we find in the EVO. So, what is the function of AYC? It employs braking power on the front wheels to enhance corning according to the steering angle, brake pressure, longitudinal G-forces, yaw scale, and wheel pace.
Interior
Mitsubishi has made a number of alterations inside as well, starting with the electric parking brake, a digital instrument cluster, and a bigger display of 8.0 inches. The buttons to control climate control are gone and can now be controlled through a screen. The minivan also gets a wireless charging pad.
The automaker is offering the Xpander Cross in both manual and automatic. The pictures here show the version with CVT, while the five-speed manual transmission is also accessible. Those looking for better ground clearance (225 mm (8.8 in)) should get the Xpander in the manual.
Powertrain
The propulsion duty is entrusted to a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre gasoline mill producing 103 hp (77 kW) and 141 Nm (104 lb-ft) of torque. While the power figure is not ideal for quick pursuits, it is enough to get the job done.
If you do not mind the polarizing design, the Xpander Cross is an excellent vehicle offering three rows of seating at an affordable price tag.
Source: Mitsubishi