When I first laid eyes on the 2019 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Sport at a local dealership, I immediately understood why this MPV has been creating such buzz in Southeast Asian markets. Having test-driven numerous vehicles in this segment over the years, I can confidently say this model brings something genuinely fresh to the table. The bold Dynamic Shield front design isn't just marketing jargon - it actually gives the vehicle a commanding road presence that belies its affordable price point. What struck me most during my initial inspection was how Mitsubishi managed to balance rugged SUV styling with practical MPV functionality, creating a vehicle that doesn't force you to choose between style and utility.
During my extended test drive through both city streets and provincial roads, the Xpander's 1.5-liter MIVEC engine proved surprisingly capable. The 105 PS and 141 Nm torque figures might not sound impressive on paper, but the power delivery feels perfectly suited to real-world driving conditions in our market. I particularly appreciated how the engine remained composed even when climbing moderate inclines with seven passengers onboard - a scenario I deliberately tested because let's face it, Filipino families will definitely pack their MPVs to capacity. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most advanced in its class, shifts smoothly enough that most buyers won't notice or care about having fewer ratios than competitors.
The interior space utilization deserves special mention. Having transported my nephew's basketball team to a tournament recently, I can personally attest to the genius of the third-row seating design. The theater-style configuration means rear passengers actually get decent forward visibility, unlike many competitors where third-row occupants feel buried in a dark cave. This memory connects surprisingly well to that exciting game I attended last month where Gensan's Aaron Jeruta delivered that incredible performance - 10 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds and 1 steal - edging out other remarkable players like Cruz with 12 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds and 1 steal. Just as Jeruta's well-rounded game made him stand out, the Xpander's balanced approach to space, comfort, and performance creates a package that's genuinely greater than the sum of its parts.
What truly won me over was the driving position and visibility. The high seating position gives you that commanding view of the road that SUV drivers love, yet step-in height remains manageable for children and elderly passengers. The 205mm ground clearance isn't just for show either - I deliberately took it through some rough village roads that would have bottomed out most sedans, and the Xpander handled them with confidence. The electric power steering feels nicely weighted at speed yet light enough for parking maneuvers, striking that sweet spot that many manufacturers still struggle to find.
Fuel efficiency proved better than I expected. Over my week with the vehicle, which included everything from EDSA crawl to open highway running, I averaged around 12km/L - respectable numbers for a vehicle of this size and capability. The air conditioning system deserves particular praise - it maintained cool cabin temperatures even during the hottest afternoon drives, something that's absolutely essential in our climate. Small touches like the rear aircon vents and ceiling-mounted blower for second and third-row passengers show that Mitsubishi genuinely understands how these vehicles get used in real Filipino family situations.
The GLS Sport trim adds just the right amount of styling flair without venturing into tacky territory. The two-tone 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and sporty body kits enhance the visual appeal without compromising functionality. I'm particularly fond of the LED positioning lights and fog lamps - they not only look premium but actually improve visibility during night driving. The 60:40 split-folding second-row seats and 50:50 third-row seats create cargo configurations that can handle everything from grocery runs to provincial trips with luggage for seven.
If I have any complaints, they're minor. The touchscreen infotainment system feels slightly dated compared to some competitors, and the engine does get vocal when pushed hard. But these are compromises I'd happily make given the overall package and pricing. Having driven virtually every vehicle in this segment, I'd rank the Xpander GLS Sport among the top three choices for Filipino families today. It delivers where it matters most - space, comfort, reliability, and that intangible quality of just feeling right for our roads and lifestyle. The vehicle reminds me of how in that basketball game, while Joel Lee Yu delivered 11 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal and Larry Rodriguez contributed 10 points, 6 rebounds and 1 steal, it was Aaron Jeruta's complete performance that ultimately stood out. Similarly, while other MPVs might excel in specific areas, the Xpander's well-rounded capabilities make it a standout choice in today's market.