In today’s automotive market, there are more options than many buyers realize. Alexander Vinogradov, a longtime authority at Za Rulem, suggests that there are compelling alternatives beyond the familiar names, especially when parallel imports are taken into account. This approach makes cars from virtually any country accessible to buyers, though the final decision still depends largely on budget and personal needs.
Evaluating the multitude of offers can be daunting. To help readers of Behind the Wheel who want a reliable, affordable, well-equipped crossover, a strong option emerges: the Mitsubishi Xpander. This model blends the practicality of a crossover with the spaciousness of a minivan, offering high ground clearance and versatile interior dimensions.
Designed for Southeast Asia and manufactured in Indonesia, the Xpander is imported into Russia for local buyers. At a length of about 4.5 meters, it sits in the same class as the Kia Sportage, yet its distinctive silhouette emphasizes practicality and usable space.
Under the hood, buyers choose between two transmission configurations. The first pairs a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with 105 horsepower to a manual gearbox, while the second pairs the same engine with a continuously variable transmission. The vehicle is front-wheel drive, a factor that helps keep maintenance costs manageable. The generous ground clearance further enhances its ability to handle varied road conditions, with a clearance around 205 millimeters.
The interior prioritizes usability over luxury. It is tasteful and straightforward, with three rows of seats. While the design is not flashy and climate control is basic, the cabin remains functional and comfortable for everyday use. The emphasis is on providing a budget-friendly option that does not feel like a compromise on practicality.
From a cost perspective, the Mitsubishi Xpander presents a compelling value. It can be acquired at roughly the same price range as a new Lada Vesta NG, typically around 2.3 to 2.5 million rubles. This competitive pricing is part of a broader shift in the market, where reduced entry costs are making more diverse models accessible to a wider audience.
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Readers are invited to participate in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix poll to help select the year’s best new cars. Participation is open to all readers who complete the questionnaire, with incentives extended to early respondents. The poll has become a familiar way to gauge consumer sentiment and discover which models resonate most with buyers across the region. [Cited from Vinogradov, Za Rulem]
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This article reflects insights from Alexander Vinogradov’s piece on practical, non-hyped crossovers and explores how Chinese and domestic options stack up against established models in real-world conditions. The focus remains on delivering value and reliability for shoppers who demand sensible, well-rounded transportation.