MITSUBISHI Motors Corporation has officially launched hybrid versions of the Xpander and Xpander Cross in the Thai market.

This marks the first time the seven-seater crossover has embraced electric hybrid power since it was launched into the market back in 2017.

Unlike the pure petrol version, which is powered by a 1.5-litre engine, both the Xpander HEV and Xpander Cross HEV feature a 1.6-litre engine capable of producing 95 hp and 134 Nm on its own.

When combined with an electric motor, the Xpander HEV boasts a total system output of 116 hp and 255 Nm, which is channeled to the front wheels.

According to Japanese automaker, the Atkinson cycle engine boasts higher combustion efficiency and an electric water pump to reduce fuel consumption by up to 34% for urban driving and 15% for mixed driving conditions.

Dubbed the e:Motion, the hybrid powertrain offers seven driving modes, namely Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Mud, Wet, Charge, and EV.

Additionally, it also includes Active Yaw Control (AYC) that controls the braking force between the left and right front wheels.

In terms of design, the HEV models sport the facelifted front fascia introduced in 2022. That said, they can be set apart from the petrol versions by the HEV badge on the grille and tailgate, and the Hybrid EV badge on the front door.

Following the trend adopted for electrified vehicles, Mitsubishi has also incorporated blue accents to the front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and wheels.

The interior features an 8-inch LCD meter, a 9.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an electronic parking brake, as well as a new gear lever with Shift-by-Wire technology.

Sound absorbing and soundproofing materials have also been added at key locations to keep the interior quiet not only during driving on pure electric power but also when the engine activates during acceleration or when driving at high speeds.

In Thailand, the Xpander and Xpander Cross HEV are sold at 933,000 baht (RM124,544) and 961,000 baht (RM128,282), respectively.