The Mitsubishi ASX might be a fairly recent addition to the local compact SUV market, but the vehicle has nevertheless already received a makeover. Not too much has changed, but there are a number of exterior and interior updates worth noting.
As is usually the case with a mid-life makeover, the front and rear of the ASX have been tweaked quite a bit. It has received a redesigned front grille, new front and rear bumpers, chrome accents, and revised foglight surrounds. According to the company, the effect is more contemporary, while continuing to underline the distinctive Mitsubishi brand identity. The revised rear styling matches the lines of the front, with an all-new bumper and contrasting lower apron.
The most welcome changes, however, can be found inside the ASX’s cabin. Hands-free Bluetooth connectivity is standard across the range, as is USB-based iPod/iPhone and flash drive functionality. The ASX now also boasts a steering wheel with multifunction controls. It offers audio and Bluetooth telephony controls across the range, while the GLX and GLS models also gain cruise control switchgear.
A nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system is now offered as an option on the top-end GLS version, and retails at R8000.
Under the bonnet, nothing has changed. The 2013 Mitsubishi ASX retains its predecessor’s 2,0-litre petrol engine, linked to a choice of five-speed manual or six-speed CVT gearboxes. A five-speed manual gearbox is offered on both the GL and GLX models, while the GLS flagship version features a CVT gearbox with a choice of fully automatic and sequential manual shifting. Drive is to the front wheels in all cases.
The rated maximum power is 110 kW, achieved at 6,000 r/min, linked to a torque peak of 197 Nm a 4,200 r/min. The result is a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 9,6 sec, and a top speed of 196 km/h. According to Mitsubishi, fuel consumption is impressive, with a claimed combined-cycle figure of 7,5 litres/100 km in the case of the manual-gearbox GL and GLX derivatives, while the CVT-equipped GLS is only slightly thirstier at 7,6 litres/100 km. Combined with a 63-litre tank, the result is a potential range of more than 800 kilometres.
Overall, the new ASX remains very similar to the outgoing model, but the changes that have been made are definitely welcome. Features such as Bluetooth, iPod and USB connectivity are important in this segment of the market, so the ASX will undoubtedly benefit from their inclusion.
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 GL – R279,900
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 GLX – R304,900
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 GLS – R334,900
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 GLS (with Rockford Fosgate) – R342,900
The pricing includes a five-year/90,000 km service plan and a three-year/100,000 km warranty, with service intervals at every 15,000 km.