The Mitsubishi Xpander has been named the 2018 Car of the Year in Indonesia by Otomotif, the leading Indonesian tabloid.
Since Xpander’s launch in August 2017, Mitsubishi has taken more than 60,000 orders for the 7-seat MPV, which was designed specifically for the needs of the fast-growing Indonesian auto market where MPVs are quite popular. Last month, the Xpander was also ranked among the top 3 best-selling models in the small MPV segment in Indonesia.
Related: The All-New Mitsubishi Xpander 7 Seater MPV
Osamu Masuko, chief executive of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, said:
“We are very grateful to have received this award from Otomotif, which is a recognition of the wonderful reception that XPANDER has been given by the people of Indonesia. Many people had a hand in this success, including our friends and business partners and the Indonesian government. Years of careful research went into the design of the Xpander, a modern MPV that meets the needs of Indonesia’s hard-working families.”
Panji Maulana, chief editor of Otomotif, said:
“The Car of the Year is selected from among the winners in each category that have been evaluated from many aspects such as design, features, performance, handling, fuel consumption, price and the latest model. And our editorial judging panel takes into account sales, community engagement and value for money. The Mitsubishi Xpander is a worthy winner for 2018.”
The Xpander was the first all-new vehicle from Mitsubishi Motors since a strengthened management team at the Japanese automaker embarked on a new growth and recovery strategy. Under the company’s Drive for Growth plan, Mitsubishi is investing more than $5 billion to improve its product line-up, building on its traditional strengths in four-wheel drive, sports utility vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
Related: Mitsubishi Xpander Scores 4 Stars in ASEAN NCAP Crash Test
The Mitsubishi Xpander MPV has also scored 4 stars in ASEAN NCAP crash tests. The Xpander competes against the likes of Toyota Avanza, Honda BR-V & Suzuki Ertiga, and may also be rebadged as a Nissan (Mitsubishi’s parent) to be sold in markets where Nissan has a strong presence. Mitsubishi will shortly begin exporting Xpander to the Philippines and Thailand, reinforcing a strong market positions in the ASEAN region.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
