[CAR REVIEW] Mitsubishi Xpander Cross: Leading the Way

Sturdy and dynamic design

Considered as an upgraded exterior design from the manufacturer; Mitsubishi Xpander Cross owns design features towards the wilderness – distinctively different from the Xpander. The area from the door window sills up to the roof is covered with a shiny black paint, extending from the A-pillar to the end of the car; creating a sturdy and differentiated appearance compared to the elegant and elegant image of the Xpander.

Details such as the front and rear bumper, four wheel arches are also designed to be more rugged with square and angular lines. The dual-tone double-spoke wheels enhance the car’s stance and create a rough feeling. In addition, the roof is equipped with a roof rack in line with the “Cross” spirit of the car.

Inside, the most distinctive difference between Xpander and Xpander Cross comes from the driver area. The steering wheel inherits the robust and strong lines from the big brothers Pajero Sport and Triton; different from the elegant and tidy steering wheel of the Xpander.

Along with that, the meter cluster behind the steering wheel has been upgraded to a large 8-inch screen, possessing the ability to display a variety of information in many different styles.

Other amenities are still maintained in both the Xpander and Xpander Cross models, typically the electronically integrated Auto Hold parking brake system; one-zone automatic air conditioning designed in an electronic button form with the convenient Max Cool feature; the 9-inch central entertainment information screen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections; all seats are finished with heat-absorbing material; charging ports and air vents for all three rows of seats on the car…

Throughout the three-day journey across Central Vietnam, the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross completely convinces the Xe Hay team with the above amenities; regardless of the passenger sitting in any position in the car.

Diverse features, useful utilities

Compared to the previous generation, it is clear that Xpander and Xpander Cross have been thoroughly researched by the manufacturer to make extremely practical upgrades. This is particularly evident in the journey to explore attractive destinations such as Hoi An ancient town, Nhon Ly fishing village, Vuc Hom valley, or Ganh Den lighthouse.

Navigating through the crowded streets of Hoi An, the driver of the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross can confidently take control of the steering wheel thanks to the commanding driving position, large-sized windows combined with large rearview mirrors; providing good visibility. And especially, the 2023 Xpander Cross is equipped with a very useful 360-degree camera system when moving in crowded streets.

On the Da Nang – Quang Ngai highway, the driver can confidently operate the car at a speed range of about 100 km/h. The upgraded suspension system, with larger shock absorbers, makes the car more stable and resilient; able to handle lane changes or sharp turns at high speeds.

Especially, Mitsubishi Xpander Cross is equipped with the Active Yaw Control (AYC) active cornering control feature. The software will automatically calculate the speed, steering wheel deflection, and direction of the car to intervene in the braking system to optimize the car’s trajectory; ensuring safety for passengers.

The mountainous road from Tuy Hoa city to Vuc Hom valley is an ideal location to test the off-road capabilities of the Xpander Cross. With a large height clearance of up to 225mm, the car can easily overcome obstacles.

However, that doesn’t mean that the Xpander Cross is a “heavy-duty off-road machine” that can conquer forests, mountains, and streams. But in the MPV segment, it is clear that the Xpander Cross performs extremely well in off-road capabilities, even gentle off-roading, and can easily turn any weekend camping trip into memorable experiences by being able to take everyone to and from the destination safely and reliably.

Durable, stable, fuel-efficient operation

Based on the reference of a 7-seater car with a price of only 700 million VND; it is clear that the Mitsubishi Xpander, in general, and the Xpander Cross, in particular, have to be an everyday vehicle with continuous, durable, and flexible running ability. It cannot just be a car that needs to be “taken care of” all month so that the owner can occasionally take it out for a joyride, coffee here and there, or to satisfy their need for speed. Considering this aspect, it is clear that the Xpander Cross is demonstrating its advantage – reliability.

The Mivec 1.5L engine with a power of 104 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque has been practically verified by 70,000 Xpander owners over the years since the first Mitsubishi Xpander rolled out in Vietnam in 2018 until now. Among them are quite a few service drivers who continue to “work hard” every day, with an ODO level of hundreds of thousands of kilometers.

And during the journey from Da Nang to Nha Trang, the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross also successfully completed the mission without any issues. With a comfortable driving style without “hesitation”, the car has accurately traveled 600.8km since refueling and sealing the fuel tank. So the car averaged about 7.4 L/100km on a mixed road.

For those who drive in a extremely economical style, the Xpander or Xpander Cross can even achieve the “threshold” below 5 L/100km on smooth roads, smooth traffic, and a full fuel tank can run nearly 800km.

Conclusion of the journey, the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross has shown clear qualities required to “dominate” the best-selling position in the cheap 7-seater MPV segment for many years since its launch until now. Modern design, spacious interior, useful and rich equipment, and especially the ability to operate with durability and flexibility as well as a reasonable price are the factors that make this model stand out and surpass all other competitors.

Anh Phan (Tuoitrethudo)