We video review the 2021 Mitsubishi Express SWB.

The Mitsubishi Express has hit the streets and made a statement: we’re back, and we’re better than ever.

The Express fills in that medium light commercial gap for Mitsubishi van which sits somewhere between the Triton ute and the Canter small truck. With its 5.2 cubic metre carrying capacity, the Mitsubishi Express is the ‘Goldilocks sized’ van.

Capable of carrying two pallets in the cargo area neatly between the wheel arches, the Express can also accommodate longer loads through its bulkhead trapdoor, which allows access to the space under the passenger’s seat. To access the cargo area in general, the Mitsubishi Express comes standard with dual side sliding doors and 90-degree opening rear barn style doors, while a steel bulkhead keeps cargo in the back, not in the cabin.

There are two short wheelbase models available, but our pick is this one, powered by a 2-litre single turbocharged diesel engine mated to a slick six-speed automatic, the 2-litre short wheelbase van offers a 1080kg payload with a 1715kg braked towing capacity. Mitsubishi tells us there will be a long wheelbase model coming in shortly and it will share the same 2-litre engine and six-speed, dual clutch automatic transmission. For the moment however, the SWB fills out the role of a smart city savvy van admirably.  

It’s economical too; the Mitsubishi Express boasts a fuel consumption figure of 7.3 litres per km for 191gm/km of CO2. A reversing camera, cruise control, Bluetooth enabled audio system with remote cell-phone control and multi-functional trip computer, are all standard equipment – as is the integrated ‘centre seat console office.’

With its city-friendly wheelbase, safety, ease of use, economy of operation and bang-for-your-buck value proposition, the Express answers the needs of the courier, tradie and small business operator needing a van for whatever reason, perfectly.

Welcome back Mitsubishi!  

For more information go to https://www.mmnz.co.nz/vehicles/express/