A few months have passed since the updated Mitsubishi Xpander made its world premiere. It was first shown in Indonesia, but we knew it was only a matter of time before we’d see it in local showrooms.
Now, the time has come, as the latest version of the country’s top-selling subcompact MPV has arrived. It wasn’t that much of a long wait, either. Good news for those shopping for a new small MPV, then.
Not only that, the refreshed Mitsubishi Xpander Cross has been launched alongside the standard version. From there, there are several new features inside and out, along with a very important handling upgrade for the Xpander GLS.
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But first, the styling. For the 2026 model year, the Xpander gets a new grille and daytime running light arrangement. The new trim piece features vertical slats and a light bar that runs across it. Also, the lower sections of the bumpers are new, as well as the side skirts and the wheel design for all variants.
Moving to the Xpander Cross, it also gets a new grille that’s more upright and inspired by the Triton. The bumpers have also been given a nip and tuck for a more SUV-like appearance, while the wheels get a more distinct design. As for ground clearance, it’s still measured at 225mm, making this the highest-riding model in its class.
Inside, there’s a new and larger 10-inch touchscreen for the Xpander Cross and Xpander GLS. The same applies for the 8-inch digital instrument cluster that’s been lifted straight from the XForce and Montero Sport. The good news is, it’s still configurable for added personalization. Like before, the sound of the turn signal tone can be changed, among other things.
For the Xpander, there’s a new 3D effect trim piece that runs across the entire dashboard. The new Xpander Cross also gets the new piece, but with a different pattern. At the same time, the Cross gets burgundy-on-red seats with Heat Guard technology. In essence, the seat trim deflects as much heat as it can, which should be a treat in the Philippines. Seriously, more cars sold in Southeast Asia should get these head-deflecting seat trims.
The new touchscreen also displays more information to the driver. It now includes an altimeter that also shows the vehicle’s pitch and roll angles. Granted, neither of these MPVs can go off-road like a Pajero, but it’s an interesting addition nonetheless. It’s a comprehensive display, and the only thing it really needs for information junkies is a volt meter and oil pressure display.
Also added to the MPV is a multi-view monitor. For the Xpander Cross and Xpander GLS, it includes a 360-degree camera with a 3D display, as well as multiple angles for the front and rear cameras. But for those wondering what the lower-spec GLX variants have, there’s still a reverse camera with guide lines.
So, what’s this new important handling upgrade? For the first time ever, the Xpander gets Active Yaw Control. It was once exclusive to the Xpander Cross, but it’s now fitted to the Xpander GLS. In essence, Active Yaw Control helps bring the vehicle in line with the intended path and prevent it from skidding off-course. It works in conjunction with the vehicle’s stability control system for added safety. GLX variants don’t get it, though, but stability control is still fitted standard in them.
What’s carried over from before is the powertrain arrangement. It’s still the familiar 1.5-liter MIVEC engine that has resided under the hood of the Xpander since 2017. It makes 103hp and 141Nm of torque, all of which are sent to the front wheels. The transmission options are also the same as before, meaning a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.
Of course, prices have gone up given the new look and additional features added. For those who want to know by how much, check out the list below.
Prices and variants for the 2026 Mitsubishi Xpander:
- Xpander GLX MT – P1,099,000 (+P30,000)
- Xpander GLX AT – P1,159,000 (+P31,000)
- Xpander GLS AT – P1,259,000 (+P43,000)
- Xpander Cross AT – P1,378,000 (+P22,000)
