Mitsubishi has refreshed its Grandis people-mover line-up with the renaming of its entry model, and the introduction of a new VRX model.

The entry model is now badged the 'LS', and its features and specifications are unchanged.

However, the major change has been the introduction of the VRX model with its distinctive new sporty look.

The new VRX gets the following external styling features:

• New 5-spoke 17" alloy rims fitted with 215/55R17 steel belted radial tyres,
• 15mm higher ride height,
• Unique front and rear bumpers,
• Unique front grille,
• Unique side air dams,
• Side door garnishes,
• Wheel arch flares,
• Large integrated roof rails,
• Reflector-style fog lamps,
• Chrome exhaust extension,
• Privacy glass for the rear doors, rear quarters and tailgate windows.

Inside, it is a similar story, with the VRX getting the following additional features:

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift lever,
• Black leather seats and matching door inserts with feature double stitching,
• Mesh-print power window switch panels in the front and rear,
• Bright chrome inner door handles,
• Pollen filter for the air conditioning,
• Alloy sports foot pedals,
• Bright door scuff plates.

The audio units have also been upgraded. The LS now gets an AM/FM radio with MP3/WMA compatible single CD unit, while the VRX gets an AM/FM radio with a MP3/WMA compatible 6-CD in-dash stacker with two additional speakers.

The VRX also gets 4-sensor rear parking assistance as standard.

The colour palette is unchanged for the LS model - White Solid, Cool Silver Metallic, Red Metallic, Beige Metallic, Purple Metallic, Gunmetal Mica, Deep Blue Mica, and Black Mica - while the VRX is available in four colours - Cool Silver Metallic, Red Metallic, Gunmetal Mica and Black Mica.

Grandis is still powered by a 2.4 litre 16-valve SOHC electronically injected Euro 3 compatible four-cylinder engine with MIVEC (Mitsubishi's variable valve timing) that develops 120 kW of power at 6,000 rpm and 216 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. It is mated to a four-speed INVECS II 'Smart Logic' automatic transmission with 'Sports Mode' tiptronic-style shifting through an in-dash mounted lever.

Safety is paramount in a family vehicle such as Grandis, and it is packed with a host of active and passive safety features. Standard equipment includes Mitsubishi's acclaimed RISE (Re-inforced Impact Safety Evolution) body structure, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), front, side and curtain airbags, and 3-point seat belts in all positions including pre-tensioners and force limiters for the driver and front passenger.

The new Grandis model range is now available from the 200-strong national Mitsubishi dealer network, and is priced at $39,990 for the 'LS' and $43,000 for the VRX.