Initially, we were expecting Mitsubishi’s MPVs to receive Nissan’s e-Power system. Instead, Mitsubishi revealed that both the Xpander and Xpander Cross will employ a locally-developed full-hybrid system.
Dubbed as e:Motion, the hybrid system in the 2024 Xpander and Xpander Cross consists of a 1.6L naturally-aspirated MIVEC engine and is assisted by an electric motor and a battery pack. Mitsubishi says the newly-developed mill is 10% more fuel-efficient than the regular Xpander’s 1.5L gasoline engine.
When paired with the hybrid system, the Japanese carmaker claims that the MPV is around 34% more fuel-efficient when driving in the city and over 15% more fuel-efficient when driving on the highway.
In terms of the combined output of the hybrid system, both the Xpander HEV and the Xpander Cross HEV make 115 PS, which is 10 PS more than the conventional internal combustion engine version. Torque, on the other hand, is rated at 255 Nm, which should be more than enough for an MPV.
Other notable features include rear disc brakes, a new suspension system, a 7-mode Drive Mode system, and an Active Yaw Control (AYC) system.
Design-wise, the Xpander HEV features an overall design that is similar to the regular variant. However, it does get a few subtle changes to make way for its electrification such as the use of “HEV” badges on the front grille and tailgate, “Hybrid EV” badges on the doors.
Additionally, there is also a blue accent garnish on the front bumper, side skirts, and rear bumper. The 17-inch alloy wheels gain a blue accent stripe.
It measures 4,595 mm long, 1,750 mm wide, 1,750 mm in height, and has a 2,775 mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is rated at 195 mm.
Inside, the HEV MPVs get a new 8-inch digital instrument cluster, an electronic parking brake, and a heat-reducing Heat Guard leather upholstery, and an electronic parking brake with an auto-hold function.
Mitsubishi has also made chassis upgrades for its popular MPV. With the addition of a floor-mounted battery pack and an electric motor, the Japanese carmaker improved the body rigidity and specially-tuned the suspension system to account for the increased weight. Mitsubishi says these updates result in better handling stability and improved ride comfort.
Both the Xpander HEV and the Xpander Cross HEV are now on sale in Thailand with prices starting at 912,000 baht (around PHP 1.2 million) for the Xpander HEV. Meanwhile, the Xpander Cross HEV retails for 946,000 baht (around PHP 1.23 million). It is made in Thailand.
Trang Nguyen (Forum.autodaily.vn)
Photo: Autolifethailand
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