The Mitsubishi Motors ASX (Active Sporty Crossover) has been one of the company’s strongest sellers since its local launch in South Africa in 2011 – by offering a quality product, at excellent value-for-money prices. With a facelift in October 2013 this trend is set for the mid-size SUV to continue being a popular choice among buyers well into the future.
“This market is offering increasing levels of value for money and a continuous stream of new models. With this in mind we are full of confidence in our latest ASX offering, particularly as it has even more value-added features and benefits over its predecessor,” commented the CEO of Mitsubishi Motors SA, Jaco Oosthuizen.
The ASX, which was introduced to the SA market in September 2011 has already sold more than 3 500 units locally, with global sales in more than 100 countries already exceeding 380 000 units. The compact SUV was co-developed with several European brands (Citroen and Peugeot) and offers excellent refinement and quality levels. However, the Mitsubishi version of the model is globally the most successful due to the Japanese attention to detail and keen pricing. The Mitsubishi line-up, once dominated by big vehicles built to conquer Dakar, has done very well with the city styling and comfort of the compact ASX.
There are five models in the 2014 model year Mitsubishi ASX range in SA, all front-wheel drive and powered by a two-litre petrol engine, with a choice of five-speed manual or six-step continuously variable transmission (CVT). The well-proven and economical power unit develops 110KW of power at 6 000r/min and 197N.m of torque at 4 200r/min, sipping just 7.5l /100km – a big bonus with the current fuel prices.
Inside all models now have a dark titanium colour centre panel, an upgraded audio system with four speakers and two tweeters on the GL and GLX models as standard. For the audiophiles there is the option of the Rockford Fosgate system on GLS derivatives, which incorporates a 500W subwoofer plus nine speakers. Conveniently controlled through the steering wheel mounted controls.
These quality add-ons are in addition to the wide range of other features that have been carried over from the previous models, including hands free Bluetooth connection to a mobile phone. The Link system is available across the board. Link, is voice controlled, allowing dialling features through software which also has a learning component. The phone is also controllable from the steering wheel. Park distance warning, fog lamps, multi-information display, rear luggage cover over the spacious luggage compartment and leather covered steering wheel and gear knob are also standard across the range. All models now have heated exterior rear view mirrors, cruise control which is controllable from the steering wheel, rain-sensing windscreen wipers and automatic lighting control according to the ambient light.
As one has come to expect from a Mitsubishi product, the safety levels are very high and the ASX achieved a 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP evaluation. Standard safety features include seven airbags, Mitsubishi’s DAKAR developed Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) safety cell, ABS brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BAS), with ISOFIX fittings for child seats.
With all these safety features and overall value for money offering, it’s not hard to see why the Mitsubishi ASX is a leader in its class.
