Hyundai Motor Philippines finally launched the refreshed version of its popular Stargazer. For this comparo, we’ll be pitting the Korean carmaker’s updated MPV against the facelifted Mitsubishi Xpander. We’ll be using the highest non-crossover trims for both three-row MPVs, the Stargazer 1.5 GLS IVT and the Xpander 1.5 GLS AT.
The refreshed Stargazer measures 4,575mm long, 1,780mm wide, and 1,695mm tall. This makes it 20mm shorter, 30mm wider, and 55mm lower than the Xpander. The updated Hyundai MPV has gained an extra 115mm in length over the pre-facelift model, this is not far off the 120mm the Xpander gained during its first refresh in late 2021. The Stargazer rides on a 2,780mm wheelbase; this is 5mm greater between the axles than the Xpander. The Hyundai MPV rolls on 24.9-inch-diameter 205/55R16 tires; this is a full inch smaller than the Mitsubishi MPV’s 25.9-inch-diameter 205/55R17 rubber. The Stargazer has a 185mm ground clearance; this is 40mm lower than the Xpander.
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Here’s a quick overview of the two featured small MPVs: The Stargazer is Hyundai’s small three-row MPV. It made its global debut in 2022, and in its original form it featured a distinctive Staria-like “One curve” silhouette. In mid-2025, Hyundai gave the Stargazer a major refresh. The most noticeable change is its boxier, more substantial front-end that features a taller, more horizontal hood. Changes to the rear end and interior help align it with other newer Hyundai models. The 113hp 1.5-liter Smartstream gasoline mill and continuously variable transmission are retained.
The Xpander on the other hand, is Mitsubishi’s small three-row MPV. It made its global debut in August 2017; this makes it one of, if not the, oldest models in its segment. In late-2021, the Xpander was given a major facelift that included a longer front fascia and rear bumper. In 2025, the Xpander was given a second refresh, this time more subtle than the first update. Its 104hp 1.5-liter 4A91 MIVEC gas unit and four-speed automatic transmission are carried over.
Like most small front-wheel drive people movers in this class, both the Mitsubishi and Hyundai MPVs have a unibody construction and feature independent MacPherson strut suspension up front and a simple compact torsion beam setup at the rear.
How much do these updated small three-row MPVs cost? As of this writing, the Stargazer 1.5 GLS IVT is priced at P1.228 million, while the Xpander 1.5 GLS AT carries a sticker price of P1.259 million. The two people movers are only separated by P31,000.
What do you think of the refreshed Hyundai Stargazer? Would you consider it over the updated Mitsubishi Xpander? Let us know in the comments.
