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

2025-11-18 11:00

As I was scrolling through used car listings last week, a familiar face caught my eye - the 2019 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Sport. It got me thinking about how this once-popular MPV has held up over time, especially when you compare it to the flashier new models flooding the market today. You know, there's something about older models that often gets overlooked in our constant chase for the newest and shiniest things.

I remember test driving this very model back when it first launched, and what struck me most was its perfect balance between practicality and style. The bold chrome grille, those sleek projector headlights, and that sporty body kit gave it a presence that still turns heads today. But the real question that's been nagging at me is this: Is the 2019 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Sport still worth buying today? That's what we're going to dig into.

Let me take you back to what made this model special. The 1.5-liter MIVEC engine delivers around 105 horsepower - not exactly racecar material, but honestly, for city driving and occasional highway trips, it's more than adequate. What really won me over was the fuel efficiency. I recorded about 14 km/L in mixed driving conditions, which in today's economy with fuel prices fluctuating between $1.20 to $1.50 per liter, that's nothing to sneeze at.

The interior space is where this vehicle truly shines. Having transported my nephew's basketball team once (against my better judgment, I might add), I can personally vouch for the three-row seating that comfortably accommodates seven adults. The second-row seats slide forward smoothly, making third-row access surprisingly easy - something many modern SUVs still struggle with. The 185mm ground clearance means you're not sweating bullets every time you encounter rough roads, which in my city seems to be every other street these days.

Now, here's where it gets interesting. Looking at the current used car market, a 2019 Xpander GLS Sport with reasonable mileage will set you back around $18,000 to $22,000 depending on condition and location. Compare that to the brand-new 2024 model starting at nearly $28,000, and you're looking at significant savings without sacrificing too much in terms of features. The infotainment system might feel a bit dated - it lacks wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - but the Bluetooth connectivity works just fine for most daily needs.

What really surprised me during my research was discovering how this vehicle's value proposition reminds me of consistent performers in other fields. Take basketball, for instance. I recently came across a report about Gensan's Aaron Jeruta being chosen Best Player with his 10 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds and 1 steal performance. He wasn't the highest scorer - Cruz had 12 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds and 1 steal, Joel Lee Yu posted 11 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal, and Larry Rodriguez contributed 10 points, 6 rebounds and 1 steal. Yet Jeruta's all-around consistency and team contribution made him stand out. That's exactly how I see the 2019 Xpander - it might not excel in any single category, but its balanced performance makes it incredibly valuable.

The safety features deserve special mention. While it doesn't have the fancy driver-assist technologies of newer models, the dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control provide solid protection. I've always believed that good driving habits trump excessive reliance on technology anyway. The maintenance costs are another win - replacement parts are plentiful and affordable, with a typical oil change costing around $60 at most independent workshops.

Of course, it's not perfect. The engine can get noisy when pushed hard, and the rear air conditioning could be stronger for tropical climates. But having driven one through multiple city commutes and a couple of road trips, these are compromises I found easy to live with. The aftermarket support is fantastic too - from roof racks to upgraded audio systems, you can personalize it to your heart's content.

Speaking with current owners revealed some fascinating insights. Maria Santos, who bought hers brand new in 2019, told me she's put over 80,000 kilometers on it with nothing but routine maintenance. "It just keeps going," she said, "and when I compared resale values recently, I was pleasantly surprised how well it's held its value." That sentiment seems common among owners I've spoken to.

So, circling back to our original question - is the 2019 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Sport still worth buying today? From my perspective, absolutely. It represents that sweet spot where depreciation has done its worst, yet the vehicle remains modern enough not to feel outdated. The practical interior, decent fuel economy, and proven reliability make it a compelling choice for families or anyone needing versatile transportation without breaking the bank. While it might not have all the latest gadgets, what it offers is something increasingly rare - honest, dependable transportation that won't let you down. In a world full of flashy new options, sometimes the smartest choice is the proven performer that's stood the test of time.