Mitsubishi Xpander scores high numbers in Vietnam; Malaysia debut on cards

KUALA LUMPUR: The Mitsubishi Xpander is a brand new compact MPV from the Japanese automaker. It is also the first to be tagged as an ASEAN model. The car first arrived in Indonesia back in the year 2017 and since then has grabbed all the leading segment awards like “Best small-size MPV” by Otomotif, “Cars of 2018”, “FORWOT Car of the year”, and “Best MPV”. In the Indonesian market, the company sold around 74,000 units in the first 12 months of 2018.

Seeing the MPVs humongous success and we were hoping Mitsubishi Malaysia to introduce the car locally as well. Next, after Indonesia, it was the Vietnam market where the Xpander choose to arrive. The company has already delivered 2000 units, i.e., the highest monthly turnover for a car ever in Vietnam.

The factors that contribute to Xpander’s high demand are - its affordable price tag, prominent design language, and roomy cabin. All this and more has helped Xpander gain the trust of the customers in Vietnam.

The above figures predict that Mitsubishi’s MPV will do great in other ASEAN nations as well, like Malaysia. And we are curious as to what is holding Mitsubishi Malaysia back in introducing the Xpander.

The all-new Xpander combines the brand’s Dynamic Shield Design and Japanese Omotenashi heritage that assures extraordinary comfort. And we here in Malaysia, are missing it all and are curious to know the reason. There was a time when Malaysia was amongst the first ASEAN countries to receive a new product from the Japanese automaker, now we have been shifted to 3rd and sometimes to even 4th position.

The 2nd-gen model now comes with Dynamic Shield design that makes the Xpander highly aerodynamic efficient, which means enhanced noise resistance, reduced wind resistance, and superior fuel economy. The Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control System reinforces powerplant performance. Also, Xpnader’s 0.084 horsepower/kg power-to-weight ratio helps maintain fuel-efficient characteristics along with assuring a robust performance. The RISE chassis guarantees maximum protection while maintaining optimal weight.