Production XM MPV to be called Mitsubishi Expander?

So far, we’ve been calling Mitsubishi’s upcoming Low MPV for the Indonesian market by its concept name, Mitsubishi XM, but word is that the production car will be called Mitsubishi Expander, according to KompasOtomotif’s sources. The car will make its debut at the 2017 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) in August.

The publication’s source also shared that the “Mitsubishi Expander” will not only be sold in Indonesia, where seven-seater MPVs rule, but will also be exported to Europe. Now this sounds rather unusual, and Mitsubishi declined to confirm the speculations or the “Expander” name. The utility model will have at least nine variants on offer, the source added.

Mitsubishi has high hopes for one of the most anticipated new cars in Indonesia, targeting up to 20% of the Low MPV segment, which is a big chunk for a newcomer joining established models such as the Toyota Avanza and Daihatsu Xenia twins, Honda’s Mobilio (and BR-V) and the Suzuki Ertiga, among other MPVs.

From what we see so far, the production XM is set to excite the market, as Mitsubishi is providing something slightly different from the norm in terms of styling.

The showcar features MMC’s latest Dynamic Shield face, with slit-like headlights, a large black “X” grille and chunky bumpers. The flared wheel arches and sculpted character line gives the car a strong look typical of an SUV. The black portion of the rear end has similarities with the eX Concept from Tokyo 2015.

Spyshots from the Republic show a camouflaged test mule that while not as dramatic as the concept, retains much of its unique points. That face – with the slim headlamps and squared-off bumpers – is intact, and the deeply sculpted front wings and signature line are present. The essence of it is there, for sure.

If true, it won’t have the coolest name in town, but will this Mitsubishi seven-seater fare well in Malaysia as a Honda BR-V rival?

GALLERY: Mitsubishi XM Concept at IIMS 2017

Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.