Mitsubishi has taken the wraps off its upcoming multi-purpose vehicle which is set to take centre-stage at the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show. Mitsubishi calls it the “Next Generation MPV” but experts believe that it could take on the “Expander” tag when it heads for production.
Mitsubishi has made an effort to merge its characteristic SUV styling with a standard MPV body and it shows up clearly in the concept. The front features the signature Dynamic Shield, with an imposing face and elaborate cuts across the front bumper.
The Expander gets a three-tier lighting arrangement with sleek LED DRLs winging the grille, headlamps lower down and deeply inset foglamps at the bottom of the bumper. The side features a rising beltline and a sharp character line (which, somehow, seems very reminiscent of the Honda City).
Also Read: GST : Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Gets Cheaper By INR 1.04 Lakh
The rear looks more like a conventional MPV. It gets a large tailgate with split taillamps and a striking cutout for the number-plate. Inside, the design is much more mature and conservative. It gets a dual-tone black and beige dashboard with light wooden inserts.
A large touchscreen use of silver trim to contrast with the black fascia make it appear premium. Mitsubishi says that the MPV can easily seat seven people with sufficient luggage space to help them carry their stuff with them. The company claims that the Expander will offer class-leading comfort and space through its easily modifiable interiors.
Mitsubishi says that the vehicle will be feature loaded as well, with gadgets like keyless entry and go, follow me home headlamps and remote-operable pilot lamps. It will be designed with rough surfaces in mind and will sport a ground clearance of 205mm, which would be the best in its class.
The MPV will be powered by a 16-valve 1.5 Litre petrol motor, equipped with the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) technology for better power output and improved fuel economy. Both, a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic options are likely to be offered.
Also Read: SPIED: Mahindra U321 MPV snapped up close, will compete against the Toyota Innova
Indonesia is one of the largest MPV markets in the world and thus, the venue chosen by Mitsubishi for the reveal comes as no surprise. The Expander will share the dais with the other models of the line-up when it hits the GIIAS next month. The auto show begins on August 10 and will run for the subsequent 10 days. Stay tuned for updates.