Mitsubishi has decided to renew the second generation of the ASX, a model that reopened the doors of the European market to the three-diamond brand. A self-proclaimed “clone” of the Renault Captur, the renewed ASX now receives a reinforcement of the brand’s design language and sets new standards in terms of digitization and connectivity.
The design of the new ASX fully incorporates Mitsubishi’s iconic “Dynamic Shield,” which reinforces its SUV characteristics and gives it a confident, robust, and dynamic appearance.
The side profile combines a fluid silhouette with broad and elevated shoulders, which contributes to a confident posture, enhanced by the 17″ or 18″ wheels, the latter with a new custom design.
As for the rear section, there are no updates, with the “C”-shaped taillights and a tailgate that bears the ASX designation and the sculpted letters that make up the word “Mitsubishi.”
Despite the few updates in terms of exterior design, the renewed ASX comes with a set of injected and polished finishes, in glossy black or chrome in the Invite and Intense and Instyle equipment levels, including the front lower protection guard, the sill trims, and the rear lower protection, which contribute to a muscular appearance.
It is inside that we find the biggest news of the renewed Mitsubishi ASX, which presents a greater digitalization and connectivity. For this, the brand of the three diamonds incorporated in the SUV various Google functionalities, among which the Google Assistant, Google Maps applications and services, among others that can be installed through Google Play.
The integration of a complete set of connected services is reinforced by the introduction of the My Mitsubishi Motors mobile application, which provides relevant information and remote services in an easy-to-use mobile application, available on the App Store and Google Play, and supports the driver wherever they are. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available, in addition to allowing remote software updates (over the air).
Furthermore, the renewed ASX continues to make use of the Multi-Sense system, exactly the same as used by Renault in its models, which allows the driver to adjust the steering response, chassis dynamic control, and power delivery speed to their current preferences through the various proposed driving modes. Behind the wheel, it is possible to find three types of 7″ digital instrument panel; and another, also digital, of 10″.
Also noteworthy is the infotainment system that continues to use the 10.4″ central screen that allows smartphone replication to access map information or many other applications. For added convenience, a wireless charging system for smartphones is also available, along with a premium Harman Kardon sound system, ensuring clearer sound reproduction. This 10-channel, 410W system reproduces clear and impactful bass, as well as smooth and detailed mids and highs for all occupants.
The comfort and practicality of the ASX remain untouched and the SUV continues to offer a rear seat that slides 16 cm forward, providing more space and storage in the trunk, which still offers a capacity of 332 liters that can reach up to 401 l.
The versatility of the new ASX is further enhanced by the ample storage options available in the cabin: in the glove compartment, in the central armrest, and in the door compartments, which together offer more than 22 liters of storage capacity. In terms of engines, the Mitsubishi ASX continues to offer the entry-level 1.0-liter 3-cylinder turbo gasoline engine (1.0 MPI-T), equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox and delivering 90hp and 160 Nm of torque. Next is the 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine, with direct gasoline injection, turbocharger, and mild-hybrid technology, powered by a belt-driven starter generator and a 12V lithium-ion battery, allowing energy recovery during deceleration and braking phases, as well as assistance in starts and acceleration with additional torque. When combined with a six-speed manual gearbox, this engine provides 140 hp and 260 Nm (a configuration not offered by the national Mitsubishi importer in Portugal); it offers 160 hp and 270 Nm when paired with the seven-speed dual-clutch DCT gearbox.The ASX also offers a full hybrid version for those looking for even lower fuel consumption and emissions, with a 1.6 gasoline engine, two electric motors (one as a generator), multimode gearbox, 145 hp of combined power, and a range of 900 km.
The new ASX is also available with a wide range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), with all versions coming standard with Front Collision Mitigation System with Pedestrian Protection, Automatic High Beams, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Driver Attention Monitor, Intelligent Speed Assistant, Distance Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assistance, Emergency Lane Keeping Assistance, Parking Sensors, and Rear Camera.
Mitsubishi has announced that the revamped ASX will be produced in Spain starting in June, with its market arrival scheduled for that month when we should learn about its prices.