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24/07/2011
REVIEW By EWAN KENNEDY
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Mitsubishi’s ASX is either a compact SUV or a crossover depending on its mechanical specifications. When it comes with 2WD it’s a hatchback with good interior space and better than average ground clearance. Add 4WD and you get some reasonable ability off sealed surfaces.
Though it’s known as the Outlander Sport in some markets, Mitsubishi Australia has chosen to stay with the more common name of ASX (for Active Sports Crossover.
Changes to import tariff rates at the start of 2010 have contributed to many imports coming into Australia with 2WD rather than 4WD, previously the 4WDs were taxed as trucks and arrived on our shores at lower prices than 2WD models as these were sold as cars.
Mitsubishi ASX is a nice design combination of hot hatch and SUV thanks to the so-called Jetfighter grille and the sleek looks of the tail.
There’s good interior space, not noticeably less than that of the Outlander, with plenty of rear leg and headroom.
The boot is a good size for a vehicle in this class. It has a volume of 426 litres with the rear seat back in place, and 1193 litres with them folded. Some of this spaciousness is achieved through the use of a space-saver spare tyre. For those who prefer it, the boot floor can be raised to allow for a full-sized spare. We suggest the full-size spare if you’re taking an ASX into harsh areas away from the beaten track, around town the space-saver is probably all you need.
Mitsubishi ASX comes with the choice of two engines, the 2.0-litre petrol unit that we’re familiar with from the Lancer and a sophisticated 1.8-litre direct-injection turbo-diesel. The diesel’s combination of 110 kW of power and 300 Nm of torque at 2000 rpm is enough to satisfy the driver who enjoy punting their cars along. Yet the new technology used in this all-new diesel helps keep fuel consumption at an officially tested 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres. Carbon emissions are measured at 154 grams per kilometre.
Mitsubishi looks to be on a real winner with the new turbo-diesel engine. As we’ve come to expect from modern diesels the difference in engine sound is really only noticeable at start-up. There’s plenty of torque even at relatively low-revs and of course there’s the fuel cost saving.
The front-wheel drive Mitsubishi ASX comes with the choice of five-speed manual or CVT automatic, the 4WD petrol is only available with CVT while the diesel only comes with six-speed manual.
Standard in all ASX models are climate control air conditioning, powered tailgate operation, MP3-compatible audio with USB input, tilt and reach steering wheel and alloy wheels. Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel mounted audio controls and rear parking sensors are all standard on 4WD models and a package option with 2WD, while the 4WD also gets front fog lamps.
The upmarket Aspire variant of the ASX adds heated seats, keyless entry and push-button ignition, 17-inch alloys, rear view camera and Mitsubishi’s Multi-Communication System that includes satellite navigation, Rockford-Fosgate sound system and a 40Gb hard drive (with 15 Gb set aside for your own music), all displayed on a seven-inch dashboard display. A panoramic sunroof is optional.
Safety features across the entire Mitsubishi ASX range include ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, stability and traction control and front, side, curtain and driver’s knee airbags.
The Mitsubishi ASX is an impressive vehicle that’s likely to make a significant impact on the compact SUV market. Neat, practical and well-priced it also comes with added assurance of Mitsubishi’s five-year / 130,000-kilometre warranty. |
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