Mitsubishi Xpander HEV Play Adds a Sporty Flair to the 3-Row Minivan | Carscoops

      The recent limited edition modifications to Mitsubishi's hybrid minivan are solely cosmetic.

      7 hours ago

      By Thanos Pappas

      The Mitsubishi Xpander HEV Play is a special edition of the minivan intended for the Thai market.

      This edition is available for both the Xpander and the Xpander Cross, although with distinct appearances.

      The models do not include any enhancements in power or chassis compared to the standard Xpander HEV.

      Mitsubishi has unveiled a new limited-edition model of the Xpander minivan in Thailand, featuring a sportier design while retaining the established hybrid powertrain. The Xpander HEV Play comes with a distinctive body kit adorned with black accents, but lacks any mechanical modifications.

      Initially launched in 2017 and refreshed in 2022, the Xpander has been in the market for some time. This new limited edition aims to attract potential buyers by introducing what Mitsubishi describes as “sport premium accents.”

      Up front, the redesigned bumper extension, enlarged air intakes, and incorporated splitter suggest a sportier profile—possibly hinting at the idea of an Xpander EVO, should Mitsubishi ever decide to create one. The grille and Dynamic Shield design are finished in black, complementing the darkened split LED headlights.

      The three-row minivan is equipped with black alloy wheels that, while attractive, appear somewhat small for the vehicle’s dimensions. At the rear, Mitsubishi has included a black diffuser trim, a prominent spoiler, and clear-lens taillights. Similar to the standard Xpander HEV, the exhaust is neatly concealed beneath the bumper.

      For those seeking a slightly different aesthetic, the limited edition is also available for the Xpander Cross. This variant is more rugged in appearance but still features ample black trim, matching wheels, and darker lighting elements.

      Color options are restricted to White Diamond and Graphite Gray for the standard Xpander, with the addition of Green Bronze exclusive to the Xpander Cross.

      Same Hybrid Powertrain, Slightly Higher Price

      Despite its bold styling, the Play edition maintains the standard hybrid powertrain. It is equipped with a 1.6-liter engine paired with a single electric motor, producing a total of 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS). This is a modest increase over the gasoline-only Xpander, which generates 103 hp (77 kW / 105 PS). Power is transmitted to the front wheels via an eCVT automatic transmission.

      Both the Xpander HEV Play and the Xpander Cross Play are currently available for order in Thailand, priced the same at ฿981,000 ($29,000). This represents a ฿48,000 ($1,400) increase over the base Xpander HEV, essentially reflecting the cost of the limited edition badge and some styling modifications.