2026 Mitsubishi Xpander HEV: Safety Overhaul Bridges the Gap with ADAS and 6 Airbags

Mitsubishi has officially unveiled the facelifted 2026 Mitsubishi Xpander HEV at the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS). Beyond its refined hybrid powertrain, this update specifically targets the growing demand for active safety in the ASEAN region — integrating a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite.

In the Thai market, the Xpander HEV is priced at 939,000 Baht (approx. RM113,700), while the more rugged Xpander Cross HEV variant retails for 969,000 Baht (approx. RM117,300).

Powertrain: 1.6L HEV with 255 Nm Torque

The 2026 Xpander HEV features a 1.6L naturally aspirated engine (4A92) producing 95 PS/134 Nm, paired with an electric motor delivering 116 PS and 255 Nm. Powered by a 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, this setup focuses on snappy acceleration and high fuel efficiency.

To navigate the diverse road conditions of Southeast Asia, Mitsubishi has equipped the Xpander HEV with seven distinct drive modes: Normal, Wet, Gravel, Tarmac, Mud, Charge, and a dedicated EV Mode. Furthermore, the HEV now comes standard with Active Yaw Control (AYC). Leveraging technology refined in the Mitsubishi Xforce, AYC optimizes braking force on the front wheels during cornering, significantly enhancing stability and reducing understeer for a more composed driving experience.

Safety Overhaul: 2026 Xpander HEV Comes with ADAS

The most significant highlight for the 2026 model year is a comprehensive safety overhaul, effectively bridging the equipment gap that previously separated the Xpander from its segment rivals. The upgraded safety architecture now includes:

Blind Spot Warning (BSW) & Lane Change Assist (LCA)

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

6 Airbags (upgraded from the previous 2-airbag setup)

Standard Kit: ASC (Stability Control), HSA (Hill Start Assist), and Rear-view Camera.

Exterior & Interior: Refined Aesthetics

The exterior of the 2026 Xpander HEV maintains Mitsubishi's signature "Dynamic Shield" front fascia, characterized by its bold T-shaped LED headlamps and a high-set hood line. The side profile is accentuated by 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. Inside, the cabin features black synthetic leather upholstery accented with copper stitching, providing a more premium tactile experience.

Tech highlights include: 

8-inch Digital Instrument Cluster 

10-inch Touchscreen (supporting Apple CarPlay / Android Auto)

USB-A and USB-C ports for the second row

Maintains the versatile 40:20:40 and 50:50 split-folding seat configuration.

Market Outlook

As Malaysia's best-selling non-national MPV, this Thai-market update serves as a definitive preview of the model's local evolution. The integration of 6 airbags and a comprehensive ADAS suite effectively neutralizes the primary competitive weakness of the outgoing model.

If the Xpander Hybrid arrives in Malaysia priced between RM110,000 to RM120,000, would you choose this electrified 7-seater over the Toyota Veloz or the Xforce?