With over 340,000 units sold around the world since its launch in 2010, the Mitsubishi ASX has proved to be a global success for Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC).
Mitsubishi’s clever and capable crossover, ASX, has always stood out from the crowd – and with the 2014 model year just arriving in dealerships, it will soon be attracting more attention than ever. And, never a manufacturer to rest on its laurels, Mitsubishi – the UK’s fastest-growing car brand this year – has refreshed and refined many aspects of the vehicle.
Be Safe, Not Sorry
The ASX isn’t just environmentally aware, it’s a safe choice too. The ASX incorporates Mitsubishi’s RISE safety technology (which dissipates the energy from the impact away from the passenger compartment) as well as ABS anti-lock braking, Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist an Emergency Stop Signal System, Hill Start Assist, ISOFIX child seat anchorage and up to 7 airbags as standard. The result is a reduced likelihood of an accident, but should a collision be unavoidable, the ASX not only provides outstanding levels of occupant protection – with a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating – but also excellent pedestrian impact protection.
Under the Bonnet
The ASX has the choice of three Euro V compliant engines: A 1.6 petrol with 115bhp and a 1.8 Di-D low-CO2 turbo-diesel with 114bhp. A five-speed manual is fitted on the 1.6 and a six-speed manual comes with the 1.8 Di-D. An automatic version of ASX is also available – with the 2.2 4N14 16V DOHC engine found in new Outlander.
Stylish and Practical
Based on the same platform as the Outlander, Lancer and Lancer Evolution X, the ASX bridges the gap between Mitsubishi’s conventional passenger cars and its rugged off-roaders. Practicality and versatility are key to the appeal of the ASX. With a wheelbase to match the Outlander, passenger space is generous, with the flexible seating inside giving the ASX real versatility for customers looking for a practical, enjoyable family car. The addition of a stunning panoramic glass roof, complete with sophisticated mood lighting and electric seat controls on the ASX4, will enable front passengers to recline and gaze skywards.
Green Thinking and Economical
Helping the ASX achieve its impressive economy and emissions figures are low rolling resistance tyres, regenerative brakes and intelligent power management to allow the ASX to return its impressive consumption figures. Indeed, every aspect of the ASX has been engineered with its environmental performance in mind, to help create not just an enjoyable, versatile family vehicle, but a responsible one too.
The annual road tax cost ranges from to £125 for the 1.6 petrol engine to £175 for the 2.2 diesel engine. With class-leading economy and emissions, in line with Mitsubishi’s environmental aspirations, the frugal 1.6 petrol engine offers fuel economy of 47.1mpg, 55.4mpg for the 1.8 diesel engine and the 2.2 engine achieves 48.7mpg, based on the official combined cycle.
Going Automatic
Another welcome new addition is the option of automatic transmission, available on the ASX 4 2.2 Diesel 4WD version. The 1.6-litre 16v MIVEC engine comes exclusively fitted with a five-speed manual transmission with front-wheel drive. The 1.8-litre Di-D diesel engine comes fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, and can be specified with either front- or four-wheel drive (AWC). The 2.2-litre diesel version is equipped with automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
Something for Everyone
The ASX starts with a choice of two-wheel-drive versions and all models include a spacious, family-friendly interior and offer a comfortable, refined ride.
For those requiring the security of four-wheel-drive, ASX also offers off-road flexibility and despite its compact dimensions, it is based on the proven capabilities of the bigger Outlander off-roader. So for anyone needing to go off the beaten track, the ASX is more than capable.
Like other models in the Mitsubishi range, ASX is temptingly priced but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking key standard equipment. All models have alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric windows and keyless entry. Other desirable features such as Bluetooth, leather upholstery, satellite navigation, seat heaters and a reversing camera are available.
ASX 2: The Mitsubishi ASX 2 is the entry-level ASX but even this model comes fully-loaded with equipment perfect for its intended audience – such as alloy wheels, air conditioning, Active Stability and Traction Control, remote keyless entry and seven airbags. New for 2014 is a Bluetooth hands-free system as standard.
ASX 3: The Mitsubishi ASX 3 moves the game on. It adds 17-inch alloys, climate control, push-start button, parking sensors, privacy glass, front fog lamps, cruise control and features six speakers. KOS (Keyless Operation System) features and the car also benefits from auto light and rain sensors. Heated front seats and a leather steering wheel add touches of luxury. Leather upholstery is an option too.
ASX 4: This is the most accomplished ASX of the lot, packed with creature comforts and bristling with clever technology. On top of an already strong list of standard equipment, the ASX 4 adds a reversing camera, leather upholstery, Kenwood integrated Satellite Navigation and CD/radio with MP3 compatibility. It come with 4WD – and new for 2014, automatic transmission. A major new feature is the ASX 4’s panoramic glass roof. By day the glass roof creates a fresh, open-air feel throughout the interior; and by night, with its LED mood lighting, it sets the tone for endless evening drive possibilities.
Colour Me Happy
Keenly anticipated by Mitsubishi’s dealer network in the UK, the new ASX range will be available in the following colours:
- Cool Silver (Metallic)
- Orient Red (Metallic)
- Amethyst Black (Metallic)
- Frost White (Solid)
- Granite Brown (Metallic)
- Atlantic Grey (Metallic)
- White Pearl (Pearlescent)
TLC
The ASX comes with three years unlimited mileage warranty, 12 year anti-corrosion perforation warranty, 3 year pan-European roadside, home and accident assistance. Servicing on the 1.6 ASX and the 1.8 ASX is 12,500 miles or 12 months, whichever occurs first and the servicing on the ASX 2.2 is 9,000. The Mitsubishi Service Plan (MSP) is also available for the additional cost of £450 on the petrol variant and £650 on the diesel variant.
Go Compare
The re-aligned ASX range has achieved a competitive insurance group rating of between 13E to 20E depending on the derivative.
Money Talks
Mitsubishi Motors in the UK is pleased to announce very competitive pricing:
ASX2 1.6 Petrol Manual £14,999 Was: £16,499
ASX3 1.6 Petrol Manual £16,750 Was: £18,359
ASX3 1.8 Diesel Manual £18,750 Was: £20,599
ASX4 1.8 Diesel 4WD Manual £22,499 Was: £24,895
ASX4 2.2 Diesel 4WD Automatic £23,899 Was: £26,295
Future Proof
Residual Values (RV), based on three years / 30,000 miles, range from 40 to 48 per cent.
View From The Top
Lance Bradley, Managing Director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said:
‘The crossover marketplace has grown rapidly in recent years and Mitsubishi Motors has been a key player in this important segment. The ASX is a stylish, well-priced, practical contender that has won many admirers and delivers genuine driving pleasure.
Providing excellent economy and emissions, versatility, as well as comprehensive standard equipment, not to mention reassuring safety features, the ASX has everything the crossover buyer is after.
And we’re sure that the improvements made for 2014 will enhance the appeal of the ASX still further and attract more customers to our fast-growing brand.’
