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- New Mitsubishi ASX ES entry-level grade is packed with features, including LED headlamps.
- Ideal for small families or young executives as it offers loads of interior space for kids or adventure gear (if that's your thing).
- Although it's front-wheel-drive, the ASX is capable on dirt roads offering compliant ride and handling, based on experience with the pre-facelift.
- For motoring news, go to Wheels24
Mitsubishi's venerable ASX sports utility vehicle has been on sale in South Africa for more than a decade already, and it has carved itself a respectable niche in this booming soft-roader (front-wheel-drive SUVs and crossovers) segment. If you want style, comfort, reliability and butch looks, the ASX is undoubtedly a model that ranks high on our want list.
One of the key reasons we enjoy experiencing the ASX whenever Mitsubishi offers us a test drive experience is that the company can refresh and refine the car without rebuilding the entire thing from scratch - to keep prices attractive. Ongoing facelifts, interior refreshes, warranty and service plan upgrades and mechanical tweaks ensure the model remains youthful and compelling.
For 2022, Mitsubishi has given the ASX another refresh, adding an entry-level model that more South Africans might be able to afford. The company has also added a range-topper, arriving later this year.
Do you think the Mitsubishi ASX needs an all-new contemporary platform, or does tried-and-tested work for you? Let us know your thoughts on the vehicle in the comments section, or please send us an email here.
Entry-level ASX to cater to more buyers
Mitsubishi has introduced a new ES specification level to ensure the ASX range remains accessible to a broader customer base. Slotting in below the two existing models, henceforth badged as LS variants, there are now two new ES derivatives in either manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT) for buyers to choose from.
Jeffrey Allison, General Manager, Marketing at MMSA, explains: "The ASX was first introduced in South Africa in 2011, and since its launch, more than 9300 units have been sold, making it the most successful model for the brand in the last decade. The vehicle has also opened the Mitsubishi brand to younger families seeking access to the legendary Mitsubishi way of life. The addition of the two ES models with revised specification levels now places this lifestyle within reach of buyers for whom affordability is a greater consideration."
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Still packed with features
Despite it coming to market as an entry-level model, the new ES version of the Mitsubishi ASX boasts LED headlights and LED daytime running lights (DRL), as well as LED fog lamps and electrically adjustable foldaway mirrors. You have to pay extra for items like these on some premium European SUVs and crossovers, and it's nice that Mitsubishi hasn't reverted to halogens for the driving beams just because this is an entry-level model.
At the rear, ASX ES models offer LED brake lights, LED taillights, LED reverse lights and a rear spoiler with a high-mounted stop lamp. It all comes together nicely to keep the car looking fresh despite its age.
On the inside, you'll enjoy its standard-fit electric windows all around, durable fabric upholstery and manual air-conditioning to keep things cool. A radio/CD player is standard, while a touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is available as an option. USB and accessory sockets are provided with Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free voice control.
Driver comfort is enhanced by the inclusion of cruise control, while the rear seats boast a 60:40 split, and boot space is a respectable 406 litres with all seats in place. However, this can be expanded to 1 206L with the rear seats folded down.
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High spec model coming soon
Mitsubishi confirmed the arrival of a limited edition ASX Aspire model, which will feature additionally refreshed exterior and interior styling for later this year. "The Aspire nomenclature will be introduced across the Mitsubishi passenger vehicle range and will complement the Exceed derivatives. Aspire models will, however, be focused more on technology and styling enhancements," Allison adds.
All Mitsubishi ASX models sold in SA come with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that offers a respectable 110kW at 6 000rpm and peak torque of 197Nm at 4 200rpm.
The new ES is available with a five-speed manual transmission or CVT, as is the LS specification level. The vehicle boasts a towing capacity of 1 260kg (braked) for the manual transmission and 750kg for the CVT (unbraked), making it a suitable getaway partner for families seeking adventure outside the city, according to the manufacturer.
All models come with a three-year or 100 000km mechanical warranty from the OEM and a three-year or 60 000km service plan. Service intervals are set for every 15 000km or annually.
2022 Mitsubishi ASX Pricing in South Africa
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 ES Manual - R369 995
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 ES CVT - R389 995
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 LS Manual - R419 995
- Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 LS CVT - R439 995
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