MOTORING NEWS - Mitsubishi's popular compact crossover, the Mitsubishi ASX, is getting a refreshed look for 2017.
In addition to the company's new "Dynamic Shield" design language, the Mitsubishi ASX range now includes a new 2.0 MIVEC six-speed CVT derivative coming in at under R400 000.
"We have to address the current affordability needs of our customers. Today's economy often forces buyers to opt for lower-spec vehicles, but our new ASX 2.0 GL CVT derivative offers the comfort and efficiency of Mitsubishi's CVT transmission as well as its impressive standard specification in a truly attractive package.
When you consider Mitsubishi's world-class safety ratings, the new ASX 2.0 GL CVT is easily the best sub R400 000 vehicle on the market," says Nic Campbell, general manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa.
The new 2017 Mitsubishi ASX is the first model in South Africa to feature the company's striking new design. In this model it is centred around a new front grille, which is much more prominent than that of its predecessor and will soon be seen on other models, such as the new Mitsu-bishi Outlander and the keenly awaited new Pajero Sport.
In the ASX, the 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. 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.
Tweaks
Mitsubishi is using the introduction of its new design language to effect other 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.
The new 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 110kW at 6 000rpm and 197Nm of torque at 4 200rpm. 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 a published average fuel consumption of 7,5 litres per 100km 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 800km.
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.The 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.
Safety
The ASX is claimed to be one of the safest vehicles in its class and boasts a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. All ASX models feature Mitsubishi's proprietary Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body shell with seven airbags, ISOFIX child restraint mountings and a range of dynamic safety systems that include ABS, electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assistance (BAS).
In the new 2.0 ASX GL CVT this means excellent value for under R400 000. In addition to the above-mentioned specification, the Mitsu-bishi GLS derivatives feature LED running lights, electronic active stability and traction control (ASTC) and hill start assist (HSA) as standard.
Luxury features include Bluetooth with voice control, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel, electric windows, air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, rear park distance control and automatic lights as standard on all models.
The GLX and GLS derivatives also offer a full-length panoramic glass roof, keyless operation, a full colour touch-screen infotainment system, heated leather seats in the front, and an electrically adjustable driver's seat, as well as a rear-view camera. The two GLS derivatives feature powerful Rockford Fosgate sound systems, whilst the CVT version of the GLS boasts high-impact discharge lights.
The Mitsubishi ASX is a highly practical crossover, thanks to its 1 193 litres of storage space with the rear seats lowered and its 195mm ground clearance. ASX is sold with a comprehensive five year or 90 000km service plan and three year or 100 000km manufacturer's warranty.
Pricing:
2.0 MIVEC GL 5-speed M/T - R364 900; 2.0 MIVEC GL 6-speed CVT - R399 900; 2.0 MIVEC GLX 5-speed M/T - R399 900; 2.0 MIVEC GLS 5-speed M/T RF - R414 900 and 2.0 MIVEC GLS 6-speed CVT RF - R434,900.
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