Is the 2019 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Sport Still Worth Buying Today?

When I first laid eyes on the 2019 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Sport back in its launch year, I remember thinking this vehicle could genuinely shake up the compact MPV segment. Fast forward to today, with used car prices fluctuating wildly and newer models flooding the market, does this particular variant still hold its ground? Having test-driven multiple units and spoken with current owners, I've gathered enough real-world insights to say—yes, but with some important considerations. Let me walk you through what makes this model special and where it might fall short for modern buyers.

The heart of any good MPV lies in its balance of practicality and performance, and the Xpander GLS Sport delivers reasonably well on both fronts. Under the hood, you're looking at a 1.5-liter MIVEC gasoline engine producing 105 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque—numbers that might seem modest today but proved adequate for most urban scenarios during my drives. I particularly appreciated how Mitsubishi tuned this engine for low-to-mid range torque, making city commutes surprisingly effortless. The fuel efficiency figures hover around 12-14 km/L in mixed conditions, which isn't class-leading but remains competitive for a seven-seater. Where this model truly shines is in its sport-tuned suspension and slightly lowered ride height compared to standard Xpander variants. The difference isn't dramatic, but during my weekend drive through winding provincial roads, I noticed better body control and more confident cornering than I expected from a people carrier.

Now, let's talk about that interior because this is where the 2019 model shows its age. The 6.75-inch touchscreen feels downright tiny compared to today's standard, and the absence of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration is a genuine inconvenience I experienced firsthand. During a particularly frustrating navigation attempt using only the built-in system, I found myself wishing I had just mounted my phone instead. The plastic materials throughout the cabin are durable—I've seen units with over 80,000 kilometers that still look surprisingly fresh—but they lack the premium feel many modern buyers expect. Where the Xpander continues to impress is in its seating configuration. The third row isn't just for children, as I discovered when I transported six colleagues to a business lunch last month. With all seats occupied, you still get 163 liters of cargo space—enough for several overnight bags or weekly groceries for a medium-sized family.

The sports package additions give the GLS Sport distinct visual appeal that still turns heads today. Those 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels, the subtle rear spoiler, and the sportier front fascia create a more dynamic presence than your typical family hauler. I've noticed that well-maintained units with the signature Quartz White Pearl paint still command premium prices in the used market. Safety-wise, you get dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control—adequate for 2019 but falling short of what we'd expect from newer models. During my evaluation of various used units, I found that those with the optional reverse camera (about 65% of GLS Sport models I inspected had this) significantly improved daily usability in tight parking situations.

Reliability remains one of the Xpander's strongest selling points. In my conversations with long-term owners, most reported minimal issues within the first 100,000 kilometers beyond routine maintenance. The repair costs are notably affordable—a complete brake pad replacement typically costs between ₱8,000-₱12,000 at authorized service centers, which is reasonable for its class. However, I did encounter two owners who experienced premature wear on the CVT belt around the 60,000-kilometer mark, suggesting that aggressive drivers might want to budget for this potential replacement earlier than scheduled.

Considering current used prices ranging from ₱780,000 to ₱950,000 depending on condition and mileage, the value proposition becomes interesting when compared against newer alternatives. The Toyota Veloz starts at nearly ₱1.2 million new, while the Honda BR-V feels less spacious despite its similar pricing. What ultimately makes the 2019 Xpander GLS Sport still worth considering today is its unique position as a practical family vehicle with just enough sporty character to keep driving engaging. It's not the most technologically advanced choice anymore, but it delivers where it matters most—reliable transportation for growing families with occasional need for seven seats. The sweet spot, in my opinion, are units with between 30,000-50,000 kilometers that have complete service records, preferably from original owners who appreciated the sport-tuned suspension enough to maintain it properly.

Would I recommend it over a brand-new entry-level MPV? For budget-conscious buyers who value driving dynamics and proven reliability above flashy tech features, absolutely. But if you're someone who lives through their smartphone and needs the latest connectivity, you might find the Xpander's aging infotainment system frustrating. Having experienced both the highs and lows of this model through extensive testing and owner interviews, I believe the 2019 Xpander GLS Sport occupies a specific niche that still makes sense for certain buyers—particularly young families who want something more exciting than a typical people mover but can't justify premium European prices. It's a vehicle that understands its purpose and executes it with mechanical honesty, even if it's beginning to show its age in the technology department.