1. Dynamic Shield Design
The latest Mitsubishi ASX, launched in 2017, was the first model in South Africa to feature the company’s new Dynamic Shield design language. The striking new design is centred around a new front grille, which is significantly more prominent than that of its predecessor.
The Dynamic Shield grille combines the previously distinctive ‘Safety' and ‘Performance' treatments of the Mitsubishi front-end design. Models such as the Pajero have always been styled to appear imposing, whilst still conveying a sense of safety and protection. The ASX and Outlander, on the other hand, feature a grille with a more aggressive and sporty design.
In the ASX, the Dynamic Shield grille connects the upper and lower sections of the bumper into one single air intake. The black section of the intake links the headlights and fog lights and is surrounded by eye-catching chrome details that widen towards the middle of the Dynamic Shield grille. The grille is rounded off by a lower chromed section, which mimics the design of a strike plate and hints at the ASX’s SUV family tree.
Mitsubishi is using the introduction of its new design language to affect other, smaller tweaks, while the popular items and high specification level remain unchanged. Changes to the new ASX include redesigned seat cushions that are fashioned with long-distance passenger comfort as the main priority.
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2. Engines
The newer Mitsubishi ASX line-up consists of five derivatives all featuring the frugal and highly reliable 2.0 MIVEC petrol engine. This engine is equipped with Mitsubishi’s Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control System (MIVEC) and multi-point injection that produces 110 kW at 6 000 rpm and 197 Nm of torque at 4 200 rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox or CVT transmission with six pre-programmed gear steps.
The 2.0 MIVEC engine is well known for being very fuel-efficient, with an average fuel consumption of 7.5 litres/100 km for the manual models and 7.6 litres for the CVT equipped versions. Fitted with a 63-litre tank, this gives the ASX a range of around 800 km.
Mitsubishi’s popular CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) offers drivers the smooth comfort of an automatic gearbox, but with fuel efficiency similar to a manual vehicle. In short: a CVT transmission is designed to be more sensitive than a standard automatic gearbox and optimises engine output to deliver the best possible fuel consumption under all driving conditions.
3. Improved Spec
The Mitsubishi GLS derivatives feature LED running lights, electronic active stability and traction control (ASTC) and hill start assist (HSA) as standard.
As standard on all models, luxury features in the ASX include:
- Bluetooth with voice control
- Cruise control
- Multi-function steering wheel
- Electric windows
- Air conditioning
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Rear park distance control
- Automatic lights
GLX and GLS derivatives also offer:
- A full-length panoramic glass roof
- Keyless operation
- Full-colour touch-screen infotainment system
- Heated leather seats in the front
- An electrically adjustable driver’s seat
- Rear-view camera
Over and above all these luxuries, two GLS derivatives feature powerful Rockford Fosgate sound systems, whilst the CVT version of the GLS boasts high-impact discharge lights.
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