Mitsubishi ASX

Overview

Mitsubishi has recently updated the ASX with a new design language which falls more in line with the company’s current lineup of products. The premium compact SUV is currently offered in two variants – one each in 2WD and 4WD, with one powertrain option and seven colour options, namely Red Diamond, White Pearl, Sporty Blue, White Solid, Titanium Grey, Black Mica, and Sterling Silver.

Interior & Features

While Mitsubishi has carried out an extremely well execution in changing the exterior design of the ASX, we do wish that the same level of comprehensive changes were carried out on the inside as well. There are negligible changes on the inside of the Mitsubishi ASX, with the cabin having a tad too simple and staid layout of that of the predecessor model.

The multifunctional steering wheel, as well as twin-pod analog instrument console, looks way too simple and functional for a car of this price and segment. Even the centre console design looks a bit uninspiring, however, the presence of a touchscreen infotainment system, as well as rotary like dials for the automatic climate control, look attractive. 

While the cabin design of the Mitsubishi ASX doesn’t make one go wow, the list of features ensures that one doesn’t feel that the ASX is built to a cost. With features like leather upholstery, heated and electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, keyless entry with push-button start, a premium Rockford Fosgate sound system and many more, along with a spacious cabin, the ASX makes sure that the inner occupants feel pampered every time.

Exterior

The new Mitsubishi ASX ditches the staid design of its predecessor for a more aggressive styling theme which falls in line with Mitsubishi’s new design theme, making it look very stylish and sporty from the word ‘go’.

The frontal fascia of the Mitsubishi ASX has been completely revamped, which now features a two slat chrome grille, with wraparound side chrome extensions engulfing full LED headlamps above it and a boxy rectangular light component with turn indicators above and fog lamps below it.

The side profile of the Mitsubishi ASX now looks more taut than before with sharper lines and more angular roofline. The new ASX features new pattern for machined alloy wheels as well as thicker roof rails. Even the rear of the Mitsubishi ASX has seen comprehensive changes with all new LED tail lamps which are angular and bigger than before, with a slightly redesigned boot lid as well. 

Ride & Handling

For a monocoque frame SUV, which comes with Macpherson struts at the front and multi-link at the rear with coil springs and stabiliser bar at both the ends, the Mitsubishi ASX has a well-controlled body roll which makes the overall driving experience very car-like. The disc brake setup on all the four wheels as well as four-wheel-drive system work quite flawlessly too.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

The Mitsubishi ASX is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine under its hood, which coupled with a CVT gearbox form to be the only powertrain option for the ASX. The engine is capable of producing a maximum power output of 150 PS and a peak torque output of 197 Nm. While the figures are not too overwhelming for a modern 2.0-litre engine, it does impress with its linear power delivery and refinement.

Braking & Safety

The Mitsubishi ASX has some premium safety features up its sleeve, like active stability control, front, side, and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, hill start assist, blind-spot warning with lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and tire pressure monitoring system.

Verdict

The Mitsubishi ASX manages to come close to perfection, had its interior cabin design felt as thoughtful and modern as the way it looks on the outside. Mitsubishi should be praised for the fact that how extensively it has managed to change the face of the ASX from an average looking crossover to a cutting edge looking SUV which does manage to turn many heads on the road.