Mitsubishi just unveiled the new iterations of their best-selling MPV, the Mitsubishi Xpander and Xpander Cross. Both models received design and functional updates making them more enticing to Filipino buyers.
However, there are comments about its powertrain. It still comes with the tried, tested, and reliable 1.5-liter engine paired with a 4-speed automatic – a dated combination but still works for Mitsubishi. People are pointing out though that an Xpander Hybrid already exists somewhere else, so why can’t they bring it here. The answer is simple and unfortunate.
We get our Xpander units from Indonesia, while the Xpander Hybrid is from Thailand. We have left-hand drive units in our country (the steering wheel is on the left side), while Thailand exclusively produces right-hand drive Xpander Hybrids and Xpander Cross Hybrids.
This ‘exclusivity’ is for a reason too. Thailand gives a lot of incentives to brands who not only manufacture hybrid cars in their country, but locally source parts as well. This is why the hybrid versions of the Xpander and Xpander Cross were only marginally more expensive than their ICE counterparts – around PHP 15K to PHP 27K depending on the variant. In fact, during their launch, they had an introductory price which is the same as the top-of-the-line, gasoline-engine-only Xpander and Xpander Hybrids. Making the electrified versions of these MPVs may result in a different price if done in a different country.
This is why until now, only Thailand has the Xpander HEV and Xpander Cross HEV. These conditions are also applicable to the Xforce Hybrid that’s available in Thailand, but not in Indonesia where we source our units.
There were discussions about making hybrids in Mitsubishi’s Indonesia factory but that was back in 2023. No update has been given since then. So for now, if you’re looking for an electrified 7-seater, it’s best to look somewhere else. Mitsubishi Philippines’ hands are tied regarding the Xpander Hybrid.
