WeeklySA_AdminSEVEN SEATER: New terrain for Japanese brand
By Ali Mphaki
Andizi! (I’m not going).
This apparently would be the response from the trophy to be won if the new Mitsubishi Xpander would contest for the title of the most beautiful car in the world.
Not that Mitsubishi is known for producing eye catching products, but the new Xpander, try as it may, cannot hide its similar looks with another bland Japanese brand that is ruling the seven seater SUV market in South Africa.
You wouldn’t be far off the mark to say it’s a copy and paste of the ubiquitous Toyota Avanza. You may also want to add how similar today’s cars have become. There may as well be various noble reasons for Mitsubishi to enter the seven seater market with the launch of the Xpander.
After all, change is the only constant. But most importantly, Mitsubishi is responding to a growing five and seven seater SUV market where more and more people seem to prefer these than normal sedans. To this end, Mitsubishi has in recent years been moving away from producing sedans, the last on SA soil being the Lancer. A look at the company’s SA lineup will reveal the dominance of SUVs like the Outlander, Eclipse Cross, ASX, and Pajero.
Mitsubishi is quick to point out that the Xpander boast a face with a DNA stolen from its other models like the Pajero Sport. What distinguishes its front section from other seven seaters, apart from the Mitsubishi logo, is its daytime running lights and distinguishable fog and headlights.
There isn’t much to write home about the interior. Hard plastic – probably because of the expected daily use of the vehicle – dominates door panels and the dash. But you will get electric windows all round, three 12V sockets, full automatic air-conditioning and a USB port. Beneath the bonnet is a naturally-aspirated 1.5-engine churning out 77kW and 141Nm.
The newcomer is available with a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual gearbox. The difference between auto and manual being that the auto comes with 16-inch alloys as standard with the manual stepping out in 15-inch alloys.
And while the beauty contest trophy may be unwilling to accompany the Xpander, it will be worth mentioning that the discerning SA motoring public has warmed up the newcomer, if sales are anything to go by.
The buyers are coming in droves with June figures showing the Xpander clocking 65 units sold. This no doubt is an overwhelming support for the Xpander, which sold two less units that the legendary Pajero Sport.
Also, it may be that the Xpander evokes mixed feelings, but Mitsubishi is confident that brand loyalty will win it the day.
With a starting price of R299 995 it looks like, to steal from DStv Premier League, the Xpander is geared to “babize bonke” (come one come all).
It’s going to be an interesting race among the various role players in this segment.
Pricing starts from R299 995
