3 often overlooked reasons that explain why the Mitsubishi Xpander is exceeding MMM's target

On paper, the new 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander is not a product that will move the segment’s goal post. Conversations regarding Xpander will almost always descend towards its modest transmission: a very traditional 4-speed automatic gearbox, in a segment that has moved on to CVT-type automatics. It’s the elephant in the room that the Xpander cannot avoid.

It doesn’t matter if the updated 2024 Xpander benefits from a long list of upgrades: new soft-touch material-lined dashboard, a new infotainment system that supports smartphone-style gesture controls, more flash flood-proof 20 mm taller ride height (now 225 mm), greater comfort due to the addition of an armrest and more space in the centre console thanks to the adoption of an electric parking brake with Brake Auto Hold.

And yet, Mitsubishi dealers are seeing brisk sales, even pressing Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia for more cars to be sent their way.

In its first month of sale, the new Xpander netted over 1,200 bookings, 200 more than MMM’s own forecast. Yes, those numbers won’t trouble the Perodua Alza, but it’s a very decent figure for any non-national brand, regardless of segment.

For reference, the Toyota Veloz sells on average just 550 units per month, so the Xpander is doing better in comparison. Even before the launch of the new 2024 model, the Xpander was already averaging 720 units per month, 30 percent more than the Veloz.

Clearly, there is a disconnect between what Xpander buyers are seeing and what the general public (specifically, netizens) thinks.

Having spent some time in the new 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander, I can now relate a bit more to buyers who’ve put their money down for one.

The short summary is that many have misunderstood the Xpander’s raison d’etre, its purpose of existence.

The Xpander is not a more expensive Alza / Veloz, but a more refined, more fuel-efficient alternative to the aging Aruz

The Xpander is marketed as an MPV, but it’s closer to an SUV like the Aruz than the Alza. The new Xpander’s raised ground clearance (225 mm) has literally lifted it from competing against the Veloz (190 mm ground clearance), to also include the Aruz (220 mm ground clearance).

What kind of buyers need 7 seaters with such high ground clearance? Why aren’t they buying a pick-up truck instead?

The reason is simple: Buyers just need a mechanically simple, tall riding car to commute between their homes and their farms / homestay businesses.

Big pick-up trucks are costly to run, and they are too big for the roads that many Xpander buyers drive on. 4WD is not necessary on gravel roads.

Small turning circles matter more to some than others

7-seater vehicles usually have a rather long wheelbase – the distance between the front and rear axles – thus requiring a wider area when making U-turns, or parking.

Front-wheel drive vehicles, with their east-west engine and transmission layout, also limit how much can the front wheels turn into the car’s body, except the Xpander, whose 5.2-metre turning radius is a full-metre smaller than a similar wheelbase Honda Civic. In fact, the Xpander’s turning circle is equal to the supposedly tighter-turning rear-wheel drive Aruz.

In the real-world, this means that Xpander is simply easier to drive around tight streets of Sekinchan, Tanjung Sepat, Pulau Ketam, even Penang Island.

Combining the comfort of the Veloz with flash flood-wading strength of Aruz

The Aruz does many things well, but comfort is not one of them. Meanwhile, the Veloz has many good things to offer, but the ability to cover rough terrain and flash flood-prone areas are not part of the Veloz’s repertoire.

The Xpander may be lacking in some areas, but take a drive in one on rural roads, as we did, and you will immediately understand why so many customers who travel on such roads for their businesses or camping grounds, love the Xpander.

This is a 7-seater built by people who know how to handle rough roads. There’s a distinct character in the damping of Mitsubishi cars – progressive long travel suspension that smooths out rough gravel roads, these are also evident in the Xpander.

There’s no perfect car, but there’s a different tool for every purpose and need. That’s what Xpander buyers understand.

So, before you decide on what your next car is, first understand what your own unique motoring needs are, then do your research, and finally, go for a test drive.

The Mitsubishi Xpander is locally assembled at the DRB-Hicom plant in Pekan. Prices start from RM 99,980.