For a modern car nameplate to achieve 15 years is a significant milestone, and Mitsubishi’s ASX is the latest to reach that mark.
With a reputation for reliability and ease of operation, the ASX has a solid fan base Mitsubishi hopes will get behind the new model, with its Renault design and technology and European flair.
We recently spent time with the mid-spec ASX Aspire in Royal Blue, that sat nicely on the high-riding SUV body.
As a fan of sharp angles, there was plenty to like, with the front end incorporating outward facing chevrons flanking the Mitsubishi diamond, feeding into wide LED headlights, sitting above the daytime running lights and gloss black trapezoidal grille.
Flared guards front and rear cover the 18” alloy wheels, with black plastic stone protectors for the guard lips and lower door sections.
Classed as a small SUV, the ASX has a ‘wheel at each corner’ design, maximising interior space while providing a stable, wide track, driving platform.
The ASX cuts a tidy profile with rounded edges on the bonnet lip and a slight downward curve to the roofline with an integrated spoiler, the tailgate bulges out, avoiding reducing cargo volume and internal height.
Despite a high belt line, reducing the side window size, the ASX doesn’t feel claustrophobic, and without any restricted side or rear vision.
Inside, the ASX is outstanding, providing a cockpit feel for the driver, without neglecting the needs of passengers.
As a small SUV, it is tight, but my 183cm frame fitted both front seats, although head and shoulder room was a bit tight, especially with a similar sized driver beside me.
The centre stack features a vertically-mounted 10.4” touchscreen infotainment unit, offering AM/FM/DAB with CarPlay and Android, as well as Google Built-In, including Maps, Play and Assistant.
Under this is the dual-zone automatic climate control system, including steering wheel heater, above a ‘floating’ console incorporating an oddments tray and the stubby gear selector.
Underneath is a wireless phone charger and key fob holder, along with twin cupholders and a storage box with a sliding armrest lid, all combining to create a funky, yet functional, space.
The steering wheel is smaller than most, without losing comfort or control, maximising driver thigh room, especially with adjustable height and reach.
Wheel-mounted buttons are the norm, the ASX wheel is loaded with functionality, from the adaptive cruise control and driver display adjustment on the left wing through to audio and telephone on the right side.
The paddle shifters are perfectly placed for fast changes up and down the 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT), providing fingertip control of the driving experience.
Making the most of the available space, the second row seats can slide forwards and backwards for either more legroom or cargo space as required, the curved roofline maintains rear headroom with the seat slid backwards.
The cloth trimmed seats proved comfortable even through summer heat, while the concentric circle pattern was eyecatching!
Renault’s technology shines through when driving, delivering a precise and sporting flavoured ride, with a snappy and responsive 1.3-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol engine producing 113kW and 270Nm while providing a delightful mechanical soundtrack.
The DCT is like two transmissions in a single housing, allowing the next gear to be preselected when the current gear is engaged, providing lightning fast shifts in all conditions.
The clutches are computer-controlled, with just accelerator and brake pedals, gear shift decisions are made on numerous inputs including drive mode (Eco, Sport or Comfort), throttle position and road speed.
A key feature is the combined Auto Hold and Hill Start Assist, preventing the ASX from rolling forwards or backwards when parked on a slope, the computer uses sensors on the accelerator and brake to trigger the clutch, trying to balance the car on both can result in premature clutch wear.
The Hill Start Assist applies the park brake, releasing it as the accelerator is pressed, preventing clutch slip and vehicle rollback, making it a vital driving aid.
Another aid is the Lane Centering Assist, it automatically keeps the ASX in middle of the lane, using a forward facing camera to ‘read’ the lane, this system can struggle with poorly maintained line marking, especially where lines have been scuffed and repainted, causing unexpected lane changes due to detecting multiple lines.
The electronic power steering is responsive and accurate, even small driver inputs trigger direction changes, without feeling nervous or twitchy.
Instead, the ASX has a taut, precise feel, encouraging driver engagement and providing a sporting character.
Similarly, the ride is tighter than before, without being overly stiff, it has a suppleness, allowing the ASX to be pushed into corners without harshness or jarring, big potholes and speedbumps will upset the ride, driving sensibly, without launching over kerbs, and it is a fun and comfortable experience.
The new ASX is a delightful and enjoyable drive, it is a huge move from the previous generation, with a Euro feel.