2022 Mitsubishi Xpander gets better looks, improved drive, extra height

Here's your first look at the facelifted Mitsubishi Xpander

That didn't take long.

After an image of the updated MPV was recently leaked online, Mitsubishi has decided to fully unveil the 2022 Xpander. Revealed ahead of the 2021 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), the MPV gets a restyled exterior and interior, more tech, and a new transmission.

The facelifted Xpander features Mitsubishi's latest iteration of the Dynamic Shield design. The upper portion of the front grille comes with a two-bar design finished in black. Meanwhile, the lower section adopts a honeycomb mesh design which gives the Xpander a sportier look. Other exterior changes include the new T-shaped LED headlights, revised LED daytime running lights, and LED lighting for the taillights. Rounding up the changes are new 17-inch wheels. 

Inside, the cabin of the 2022 Xpander gets a major overhaul as well. The dashboard is all-new, featuring straight lines and rectangular air vents in place of the previous, more angular design. Also new are the three-spoke steering wheel, automatic climate control panel, and electronic parking brake (EPB). As an added touch, higher-grade variants of the 2022 Xpander will come with beige-colored seats. The same color scheme is found on the dashboard and the soft padded leather for the armrests and door trim.

Other features of the 2022 Xpander include a large-capacity tray on the center console to hold smartphones, an armrest that can store four 600ml plastic bottles, Type A and Type C USB charging outlets for the rear passengers, and integrated cupholders on the center armrest of the second-row seats.

As mentioned earlier, the four-speed automatic transmission is now gone. Replacing it is a new CVT that Mitsubishi claims will deliver better fuel efficiency and refined power delivery. Mitsubishi did not reveal what engine powers the 2022 Xpander, but we suspect the current 1.5-liter, naturally-aspirated inline-four will be carried over.

The suspension was also given attention as the 2022 Xpander now has more ground clearance over the previous model; 15 to 20mm according to Mitsubishi. As a result, the MPV now has 220 to 225mm of ground clearance. Meanwhile, the struts and dampers have been re-tuned to improve ride comfort. 

The 2022 Mitsubishi Xpander is scheduled to make its public debut this week at the 2021 GIIAS. After that, it will make its way to other ASEAN markets in the not-so-distant future, including the Philippines.