Mitsubishi ASX arrives
26th July, 2010
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Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) has announced the
arrival of its all-new compact vehicle, the ASX, or Active Smart Crossover. Available in either two- or all-wheel
drive configurations, the ASX is a milestone vehicle for Mitsubishi, introducing the company’s first-ever diesel
engined passenger vehicle to the Australian market.
Launching the vehicle, MMAL’s president and chief executive officer, Masahiko Takahashi, said the company was
delighted to add another passenger vehicle to its range.
“The all-new ASX will provide a logical bridge between our popular Lancer and Outlander line-ups, and
ensure all our Mitsubishi customers have an even greater range of vehicles to choose from.”
“Significantly, the ASX will enable us to compete in the new, fast-growing two-wheel drive compact SUV
market segment, and allow us to attract new customers to the Mitsubishi brand,” Takahashi said.
As a two-wheel drive, the ASX 2WD will be offered with a lively, fuel-efficient 110 kW/197 Nm 2.0 litre petrol
engine that drives the front wheels through a choice of either five-speed manual gearbox or smooth stepless
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
The mid-range ASX 4WD introduces not only Mitsubishi's first-ever diesel engine for a passenger car in
Australia, but also the most fuel efficient in its class. This has been achieved through the world's first
application of variable valve timing to a passenger car diesel engine with the all-new DiD engine featuring
Mitsubishi's proprietary MIVEC system. With a capacity of 1.8 litres and maximum outputs of 110 kW of power and
300 Nm of torque, the turbodiesel engine is matched to a six-speed manual gearbox resulting in an official ADR
81/01 fuel consumption of just 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of only 154 grammes per
kilometre.
The 2.0 litre petrol engine with CVT and the 1.8 litre diesel engine with six-speed manual transmission are
offered as standard on both the ASX 4WD variant and the top of the range ASX Aspire. As the latest vehicle
developed from MMC’s “Project Global” mid-size platform, the ASX blends Lancer’s passenger car on-road attitude
with Outlander’s commanding driving position and the convenience of its clever “AWC” electronically-controlled
Four-Wheel Drive system on relevant models.
The design of the Mitsubishi ASX is closely based on the “Compact Dynamism” styling blueprint of the
Concept-cX crossover vehicle, that was first seen at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007. Widely acclaimed for its
smooth profile and sloping curves, the ASX was one of the first vehicles to break away from the chunky look
typically associated with SUVs. Sporting Mitsubishi’s signature “Jet Fighter” grille, the ASX remains faithful
to the original Concept-cX styling direction combining the characteristics of both SUVs and passenger vehicles
into a stylish and versatile city vehicle.
The interior appointments of the ASX are designed to complement the sophisticated lines of the exterior.
Quality fabrics and textured materials generate an ambience that suggests “dynamism within simplicity,” with
particular attention paid to the soft trim for areas touched by the occupants.
Safety is always a high priority with all Mitsubishi vehicles, and in the ASX, it reaches new heights. Based
on Mitsubishi’s acclaimed RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) structure, the ASX combines an extensive
array of safety features fitted standard across the range including ASTC (Active Stability Control with Traction
Control), Hill Start Control system, ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist, and seven airbags,
including driver and passenger front, side and curtain, and driver knee airbag.
The three-version line-up of ASX 2WD, ASX 4WD and ASX Aspire are all comprehensively equipped for comfort and
convenience with the ASX 2WD designed to perfectly complement a city lifestyle. Standard features include fully
automatic climate control air-conditioning with air filter, cruise control, front and rear electric windows and
exterior mirrors, electric tailgate opener, AM/FM radio/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary and USB inputs, variable
intermittent windscreen wipers, tilt and telescopic steering column adjustment and 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch
on the Aspire).
A Convenience Pack combining Bluetooth 2.0 handsfree phone connectivity with steering wheel mounted controls,
steering wheel mounted audio controls, chrome muffler tip and rear parking sensors is optionally available on all
two-wheel drive variants.
For those who wish to venture off the beaten track, the four-wheel drive ASX is the vehicle of choice. In
addition to the Mitsubishi AWD electronically controlled four-wheel drive system, the ASX 4WD models also gain
front fog lamps, Bluetooth 2.0 handsfree phone connectivity with steering wheel mounted controls, steering wheel
mounted audio controls, and rear parking sensors.
The top of the line all-wheel drive ASX Aspire combines all the safety, versatility, and comfort features of
the ASX 4WD and adds a number of luxury features that are rarely found in this class of vehicle. These include
leather seats with seat heating for driver and front passenger, power driver's seat, keyless operating system
with a one-touch start, rain sensing automatic windscreen wipers and dusk sensing automatic lights, 17-inch alloy
wheels, privacy glass, and chrome accents for the radiator grille and belt line moulding.
The Mitsubishi ASX Aspire also features a premium Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers and the
Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (MMCS), which includes satellite navigation, DVD with video input,
Bluetooth 1.0 handsfree phone connectivity with steering wheel mounted controls, iPod integration and control,
and reversing camera. The MMCS also allows you to customise a number of vehicle functions, including wiper
control, auto unlock functions and climate control.
Masahiko Takahashi is very optimistic about the prospects for the ASX in the Australian market. “The design
blueprint for the original Concept-cX was to combine the best attributes of both passenger vehicles and SUVs, and
the Mitsubishi designers have nailed it.”
“And our customers agree. The ASX has received terrific reviews from both Japanese and European media, and
the initial sales response has been fantastic.”
“This is a great vehicle – good looking, versatile, with the availability of a fantastic new diesel engine -
and the all-wheel drive variants give you the opportunity to really get up and go,” Takahashi said.
Mitsubishi provides its industry leading warranty on all ASX vehicles, including a comprehensive five
year/130,000 km whole vehicle warranty, backed up by its 10 year/160,000 km powertrain warranty and a five
year/130,000 kilometre roadside assistance package.
Mitsubishi ASX Pricing*
Manufacturer List Price* (excluding statutory and dealer costs)
ASX 2WD 2.0-litre petrol 5-speed manual: $25,990*
ASX 2WD 2.0-litre petrol CVT automatic: $28,490*
ASX4WD 1.8-litre turbodiesel 6-speed manual: $31,990*
ASX 4WD 2.0-litre petrol CVT automatic: $31,990*
ASX Aspire 1.8-litre turbodiesel 6-speed manual: $36,990*
ASX Aspire 2.0-litre petrol CVT automatic: $36,990*
Mitsubishi ASX – design, safety and engineering excellence
At a Glance
- Stylish compact crossover based on Concept-cX design
- Two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive offered in three model line-up
- Mitsubishi's first ever turbodiesel passenger car for Australia
- High-tech, innovative 1.8-litre turbodiesel engine is the most fuel
efficient in class and the world's first passenger car diesel to use variable valve timing
- Powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine with manual and CVT transmission options
- Extensive standard safety equipment including seven airbags, ABS and ASTC
- Long wheelbase and fully independent suspension provide superb driving dynamics
Design
The stylish ASX exterior design is based on the theme introduced with the Concept cX that was unveiled at
Germany's 2007 Frankfurt motor show and melds a passenger car-like sure-footed stance with the commanding driving
position of a compact SUV.
Although sharing its long 2,670 mm wheelbase with the larger Outlander SUV, the ASX is designed to bridge the
gap between the Lancer hatch and Outlander SUV to appeal to an urban buyer who desires a city-friendly vehicle
with the flexible packaging advantages of an SUV.
With its short overhangs, broad stance, strong character lines and aerodynamic wedge shape, the ASX eschews
the traditional boxy SUV design in favour of Mitsubishi's "compact dynamism" design theme that suggests a car in
motion even when standing still.
At the front, its distinctive trademark "Jet Fighter" grille dominates, providing an imposing presence on the
road with the sculpted bonnet and slightly bulging yet well integrated wheel arches suggesting a solid and
athletic vehicle.
Sweeping rearwards, the gently arched roofline and sharp waistline continue the sporty silhouette while
producing an enhanced aerodynamic performance: the Mitsubishi ASX offers a Cd of just .32. With its rear roof
spoiler, slimline slanted combination rear lamps and wide trapezoidal registration plate recess, the rear view
further accentuates the car's low, wide 'muscular' visual appeal.
Complementing the car's sporty aesthetic, the ASX is available in a range of seven exterior colours including
the new signature Kingfisher Blue. Other solid, metallic and pearl finishes available include White, Cool Silver,
Black Mica, Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl and Titanium.
Inside, the concept of sharp, clear, sporty elegance continues with an emphasis on form, trim and materials.
Consistent with the exterior, the Mitsubishi ASX’s cabin reflects a sense of “dynamic quality” expressed through
the use of different textured materials and carefully applied matt finish silver accents.
Although the interior colour scheme is based on a black monotone, contrasting use of textures and materials
such as the soft trim areas that feature a new type of two-tone textured padding with contrastive undulations,
provide a smart, sporty feel. The same approach prevailed for the seat upholstery where Mitsubishi and its
textile partners provided new embossed woven materials to add to the overall sense of sporty dynamic quality.
Powertrain
The ASX introduces Mitsubishi's first-ever turbo diesel passenger car engine to the Australian market that
combines compact design, lightweight materials and innovative technology to make it the most fuel efficient in
its class.
With a capacity of 1.8 litres, the all-aluminium DOHC 16-valve four cylinder common rail direct injection
turbo diesel engine produces a maximum power of 110 kW @ 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 300 Nm @ 2,000 rpm while
still returning an official ADR 81/01 combined fuel consumption of just 5.9 litres per 100 km.
In order to achieve such low fuel consumption, Mitsubishi has combined a world first application of its MIVEC
variable valve timing system in a passenger car diesel engine enabling it to use a record low compression ratio
of 14.9:1. A low compression ratio ensures the engine delivers excellent NVH, smooth operation, high performance
and low emissions, in particular NoX emissions.
Mitsubishi's MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system is already widely in use on
its petrol engines and on the new 1.8 litre "4N13" turbo diesel engine operates on the intake valve train. By
carefully controlling all of the fuel injection and airflow parameters through the MIVEC system, Mitsubishi is
able to achieve satisfactory cold starts and combustion stability with a particularly low compression ratio.
Further efficiencies in the engine were attained through the use of a 2,000 bar common rail system for higher
output and lower CO2 emissions and a variable geometry turbocharger to provide high acceleration response and
optimum boost pressure across the engine speed range to deliver dynamic performance and low emissions.
The 1.8 litre DiD engine is offered on both the ASX 4WD and ASX Aspire models and is only available matched
to a smooth and direct shifting six-speed manual gearbox.
In addition to its new turbodiesel engine, Mitsubishi offers the ASX with a lively 2.0 litre four-cylinder
petrol MIVEC engine. Already a proven force of performance, refinement and durability currently found in the
company’s popular Lancer sedan and sportback, the 2.0 litre petrol engine generates 110 kW of power @ 6,000 rpm
and 197 Nm of torque @ 4,200 rpm.
Offered with a choice of either a five-speed manual gearbox or smooth CVT automatic transmission, the petrol
engine is standard in the ASX 2WD and available in both the ASX 4WD and ASX Aspire.
For sports performance, the INVECS III Smart Logic CVT offers six driver selectable virtual ratios with the
ASX Aspire featuring steering column mounted paddle shifts for even greater control.
With its MIVEC variable valve timing system and lightweight advanced technology, the petrol engine is also
one of the most efficient in its class returning fuel consumption figures of 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres
(manual) or 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres (CVT) according to ADR 81/01 testing.
Driving dynamics
Despite its compact dimensions, the new Mitsubishi ASX shares its wheelbase and about 70 per cent of its
underpinnings with the bigger Outlander to ensure superb stability, handling and ride comfort under all driving
conditions.
The front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspensions have been recalibrated for the smaller and lighter
ASX with different spring rates for the coil springs and a slightly smaller 18 mm diameter stabiliser bar on the
rear.
Effective stopping power is provided by 294 mm ventilated disc brakes on the front and 302 mm solid discs on
the rear supported by a mechanical system that offers extra braking assistance in emergency situations via a
vacuum servo.
Precise and direct steering is provided by electric power assisted steering that offers a light and lively
feel and kerb to kerb turning circle of 10.6m, perfect for easy manoeuvring in tight urban situations.
As a crossover vehicle, the ASX is available in both two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions for those
who wish to get off the beaten track in safety and confidence, with the latter using an optimised version of
Mitsubishi’s acclaimed All Wheel Control (AWC) electronically controlled all-wheel drive system. The system
offers drivers a choice of three modes of operation to provide optimum traction depending on driver preferences
or road conditions. The three modes are selected via a large illuminated dial placed for convenient use between
the front seats.
In 2WD mode, all torque is transferred to the front wheels to help reduce fuel consumption in normal on-road
driving conditions.
The 4WD Auto mode uses an electronically controlled viscous coupling centre differential to distribute torque
to the wheels with the greatest traction. Suitable for wet, slippery or unsealed roads, the system uses sensor
data on such things as throttle opening, vehicle speed, road conditions and driver inputs to determine the
optimum front/rear torque split for sure-footed stability under any road conditions. Continually variable, this
torque split ranges in the ratio of 98% front/2% rear to 50% front/50% rear.
For particularly difficult terrain or extremely slippery conditions off road, the AWC system also offers a
4WD Lock mode that transfers approximately 1.5 times the torque of 4WD AUTO mode to the rear wheels to improve
traction on very poor road surfaces providing powerful 4WD performance in all conditions.
Safety
The Mitsubishi ASX safety story starts with a highly rigid and strong body structure that combines
Mitsubishi's proprietary Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) system. RISE integrates and interconnects
structural elements to provide active protection of the passengers during an accident. This design brings
dramatic advances in multi-directional impact safety performance, dispersing energy loads during front, side and
rear crashes and controlling distortion.
In order to provide a highly rigid and strong yet light passenger cell, the Mitsubishi ASX employs a
significant proportion of high-tensile steel with carefully considered structural reinforcements and crush zones
to ensure the optimum safety of occupants.
Compatibility with other road users has also been a strong consideration in the development of the body
structure and given that weight is an important factor in determining the severity of damage and injuries in a
crash with other vehicles, Mitsubishi has striven to reduce the weight of the ASX in a number of areas.
With a kerb weight ranging from 1,345 kg to 1,525 kg depending on the model, Mitsubishi has made significant
weight reduction gains by using reduced thickness sheet metal, strong deformable plastic for the front guards and
weight saving materials for interior components.
Pedestrian safety has also been considered with the Mitsubishi ASX incorporating such features as a bonnet
design with a double bulge to provide a crushable zone and energy absorbing front bumper to help mitigate
potential leg injuries.
To complement the design and structural safety elements, the ASX is offered with a high level of standard
safety features including Active Stability Control, Active Traction Control, Hill Start Assist system, ABS,
Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist, Emergency Stop signal System, and seven airbags (dual front, front
side, side curtain and driver kneebag).
Further passive safety features include a head restraint design to help reduce potential whiplash injuries
and a brake pedal push-prevention system that prevents protrusion of the brake pedal in a high-speed impact to
reduce injuries to the driver’s legs.
Packaging, comfort and convenience
As a compact vehicle designed to bridge the market between the Lancer hatch and Outlander SUV, the Mitsubishi
ASX offers all the benefits of passenger car economy, comfort and driving dynamics with the flexible and spacious
interior of an SUV.
With its long wheelbase, the ASX provides seating for five occupants in comfortable and supportive quality
cloth trimmed (leather trim for Aspire models) seats. In order to attain the perfect driving position, the
driver's seat offers slide, recline and height adjustment (power operated for Aspire models) while the steering
column is adjustable for both rake and reach.
To accommodate a broad range of passengers, the reclining angle of the rear seat back can also be adjusted
and is split 60/40 to enable a versatile space for luggage and passengers. With the rear seat back in place, the
well finished luggage space complete with tie-down hooks offers a generous capacity of 416 litres which can be
further expanded to 1,193 litres with the rear seat back folded flat.
If only two passengers are occupying the rear seat, there is a fold down centre armrest with integrated
cupholders and a ski-hatch through to the rear luggage space to accommodate longer narrow items. Further storage
is provided by a front passenger seat back pocket, front door bins with large bottle holders, a centre console
and an illuminated glovebox.
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With large glass areas, the Mitsubishi ASX offers a light and airy ambience but for Aspire models, this can
be increased even further with the optional glass panoramic roof. Measuring 954 mm x 860 mm, the UV treated
laminated glass roof comes standard with a power-operated sunshade and amber LED ambient lighting that can be
set to three levels of brightness as well as simply on or off.
In order to ensure the optimum temperature and travelling environment inside the cabin, all ASX models are
fitted standard with climate control air conditioning with rear seat ducts and a pollen filter, and tinted side
and rear glass.
Standard convenience features across the range include cruise control with steering wheel mounted switches,
front and rear power windows with auto up and down for the driver, power adjustable and folding external door
mirrors, remote central locking, variable intermittent windscreen wipers and intermittent rear washer/wiper and
trip computer.
An optional Convenience Pack combining Bluetooth 2.0 handsfree phone connectivity with steering wheel
mounted controls and voice control, steering wheel mounted audio controls, chrome muffler tip and rear parking
sensors is also available on all two-wheel drive variants. These features along with front fog lights are
standard on ASX 4WD models.
For entertainment, the ASX 2WD and ASX 4WD offer a quality 4-speaker AM/FM radio/CD/MP3 audio system with
both auxiliary and USB inputs. The USB input offers a simple plug and play feature with the audio system
automatically recognising personal music players or flash drives and enabling full control via the audio system
controls or steering wheel mounted buttons where fitted.
As the top of the range model, the ASX Aspire features a very high level of specification and gains seat
heating for driver and front passenger, keyless operating system with a one-touch start, rain sensing automatic
windscreen wipers and dusk sensing automatic lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, and chrome accents
for the radiator grille and belt line moulding on top of the ASX 4WD specification.
ASX Aspire models also feature the Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System (MMCS) that integrates audio,
on-board navigation and other communication systems. The system uses a 40GB hard disc drive and 7-inch LCD
display with touch-panel operation with 15GB available for hard drive music storage.
In addition to displaying navigation information, the screen doubles as a rear view camera with fixed
guidelines that automatically comes on when the engine is turned on and the gear lever is shifted into
reverse.
For superb sound reproduction, the MMCS is integrated with a Rockford Fosgate audio system that combines a
CD/DVD drive that supports WMA and MP3 formats, 710W power amplifier and nine speakers including a 25 cm
subwoofer with digital sound processing and vehicle speed quality compensation to produce the finest sounds on
the move.
NOTE: * The indicated prices are the Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) and exclude options, dealer
delivery fees and the state/territory statutory charges. Additionally, prices are always subject to change
without notice.
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