Enjoying the look (and feel) of a kitted out Xpander

Just one glimpse, and I knew there was something different about this Xpander. It may not be noticeable without a tape measure, but this model is longer, taller, and has 20 millimeters more ground clearance than before. Its front fascia also has new fenders, a front bumper, T-shaped LED-type headlamps with new LED daytime running lamps, and a 3D skid guard. Also, the back gets retouched with new rear glass, tailgate, bumpers, and LED-type T-shaped taillights.

But wait, those model year updates are not what makes it different from the average Xpander. My test unit was fully accessorized by Mitsubishi PH with front/rear/side air dams, a tailgate spoiler, and a hood emblem. It is a short list, but the effect is stunning nonetheless for this humble multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).

The nose immediately appears more aggressive (maybe a touch too much for me) with its angular surface and sharp edges. I like the contrast between the GLS-exclusive Quartz White Pearl body color with the new interpretation of the all-black Dynamic Shield Concept grille and the shiny chrome trim. It is a head-turner and makes the front pop out.

All the air dams lower the profile despite the added ground clearance. Add the spoiler and the bigger 17-inch wheels, and it’s the sportiest this MPV has ever looked. I’d give a chef’s kiss to the designers.

I have mixed feelings about the rear diffusers (from the dam). It is sexy but feels a tad too much. The trained eye will know this vehicle sports a small displacement engine that isn’t making enough power to require additional downforce.

But all in all, the exterior enhancements are, like the kids say these days, fire, and if money is not a problem, these are fine additions that will make your Xpander stand out in a crowd.

Like all top-of-the-line models, it gets a smart key. Keep it in your pocket or bag, and you will only need to press a button on the door handle to unlock or lock the vehicle.

The cabin looks much more sophisticated with this new Horizontal Axis dashboard which has a flat, soft-touch surface. The layout is neat and streamlined, reducing the clutter and making it really easy on the eyes. Plus, it widens the view of the road and cuts down on driver distraction.

There is a new seven-inch touchscreen in the center stack. The colors aren’t as vivid, and the graphics are not as crisp, but it makes up for it with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These apps are awesome, especially if you need to use Waze when driving out of town and Spotify when you lose an FM radio signal on the highway. There is one USB port in front and two at the back (Type A & C).

Another new feature is the glossy climate control panel. It is not a touch system, so it has a few buttons and a couple of toggles. The design is very upscale, but its operation has a slight learning curve: toggle up to increase fan speed and toggle down to lower temp.

Compared to the exterior, the cabin vibe is more mature and toned down. The brown leather trim, silver accents, and padded surfaces increase the cockpit’s appeal, while the shelf and seat-under tray (front passenger side) adds to its already numerous storage compartments. It has rear air vents and a center armrest in the second row with cup holders.

Its 104.5-PS and 141-Nm of torque comes from the same 1.5-liter with Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system (MIVEC). The output is at par with the segment but its weakness is the gearbox. While others have upgraded to a CVT (continuously variable transmission), the Xpander still uses a four-speed automatic transmission. That lack of a fifth (or even sixth) gear may not be a big deal in the city, but it is very evident on the highways. Maintaining 100 km/h becomes a chore as it labors and revs above 2,000 RPM. On the bright side, fewer gears mean faster upshifts and quicker acceleration.

The suspension gets high-performance valves and larger rear absorbers, which definitely enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness in the cabin. Handling is light, typical of models in the segment, and because of its height, rollover resistance is not that high, so take it easy around corners.

Mitsubishi’s best-selling vehicle looks good and is made even better with the body kit. A bigger touchscreen and a CVT should be in the next update. Other than that, the Mitsubishi Xpander GLS A/T is every bit the sporty family MPV.