Mitsubishi Xpander in Malaysia Keeps 4AT for Reliability; CVT Possible in the Future – CEO
Mitsubishi Xpander in Malaysia Keeps 4AT for Reliability; CVT Possible in the Future – CEO
The Mitsubishi Xpander facelift was launched yesterday, featuring the typical upgrades seen in a midlife refresh—new front design, updated lighting, revamped dashboard, and additional features. However, one notable absence caught attention.
In other ASEAN markets where the facelifted Xpander has been introduced, the four-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a CVT. But for the Malaysian market, where the Xpander is assembled locally in Pekan, Pahang, the powertrain remains unchanged.
This means the MPV retains its 105 PS/141 Nm 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine paired with the same 4-speed automatic transmission (4AT).
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) clarified the decision not to offer the CVT. CEO Shinya Ikeda stated that reliability, durability, and driving response were key considerations.
“We believe that for this type of vehicle, given the local conditions, reliability and durability are key. Sometimes, a CVT may not offer the sharpest response, but we are considering introducing it in the future,” said CEO Shinya Ikeda during the Xpander facelift launch.
While a CVT is generally more efficient than a traditional torque converter automatic—especially one with just four gears—it could likely offer better fuel economy. For instance, the Perodua Myvi facelift, which switched from 4AT to D-CVT in 2021, claimed a 5% improvement in fuel consumption with the same engine. However, there are still some who prefer not to use a stepless transmission, and it’s possible Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) understands its customer base better than critics do.
The Xpander, after all, remains the best-selling non-national MPV in Malaysia, with MMM averaging 10,000 units sold annually since its local debut in late 2020. While some consider the model ‘basic,’ these ‘Low MPVs’—as they’re known in Indonesia—aren’t for everyone. But the spacious interior and lower running costs (compared to a used, higher-end MPV) are exactly what certain customers value most.
In fact, with the Xpander facelift, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) targets to boost its market share in the MPV segment from 12-13% to 14%, according to CEO Shinya Ikeda. With Honda Malaysia discontinuing the BR-V, the Xpander's only direct competitor in the non-national budget MPV category is now the Toyota Veloz. While the Perodua Alza, priced between RM62,500 and RM75,500, remains the market leader, there is still a significant group of buyers who prefer a Japanese brand for their seven-seater.
The facelifted Mitsubishi Xpander is priced from RM99,980 to RM109,980 on-the-road, excluding insurance. Full details, specs, images, and a walk-around video are available.
Malaysia