Mitsubishi Xpander HEV Play in Thailand – new bodykits previewing what’s to come for Malaysia?

Launched in Thailand last year, the hybrid Mitsubishi Xpander HEV and Xpander Cross HEV have now gained new limited edition Play variants, providing some visual upgrades over the standard MPVs. These cars are fairly significant in that they may hint at some genuine accessories coming to Malaysia.

The regular Xpander HEV Play receives a rather aggressive bodykit consisting of a deeper front spoiler, side skirts and a rear bumper extension with a black diffuser – all three of which were already previewed in December at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS).

Meanwhile, the Cross HEV Play gets a body-coloured grille, giving it a look not too dissimilar to the latest third-generation Triton. No matter which version you go for, the Play treatment also includes a black finish for the roof, 17-inch wheels and door mirrors, along with distinctive smoked clear taillights. Both cars can be had in either White Diamond or Graphite Grey, with the Cross also available in a new Green Bronze.

The HEV models are powered by an electric motor producing 116 PS and 255 Nm of torque, juiced by a lithium-ion battery and an Atkinson-cycle version of the 1.6 litre 4A92 MIVEC naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine. The latter produces 95 PS at 5,100 rpm and 134 Nm at 4,500 rpm and can clutch in to drive the wheels at higher speeds where it is most efficient, just like with Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system.

Both models are priced at 981,000 baht (RM128,300), which is 20,000 baht (RM2,600) higher than the regular Xpander Cross HEV and 48,000 baht (RM6,300) higher than the Xpander HEV.

The facelifted Xpander was launched here in September, priced at RM99,980 for the standard model and RM109,980 for the plus; it retains the same 105 PS/141 Nm 1.5 litre 4A91 MIVEC naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine and four-speed automatic gearbox as before. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has said it is considering bringing in the newer CVT, the more rugged Cross version and even the HEV model in the future.

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