The ASX happened along at a time when
Mitsubishi really needed something to complement the larger, rather successful
Outlander. One aspect holding the slick 1.8-litre turbodiesel ASX back was the
lack of an automatic transmission option. With the release of the freshened
MY2014 ASX range that is no longer an issue because now the diesel version -
available in two grades- comes standard with an automatic 'box. And it's not a
CVT either but a proper six-speed slush box. In the case of the top Sport
variant you see here- which gets a proximity key, bigger 17-inch alloys,
leather trim, high intensity discharge headlights and seat heaters – there are
also paddle shifters present. These are affixed to the steering column too, so
you're always aware of where they are. Rounding out the Sport spec list are
reversing camera with images shown in the 6-inch touch screen, and a powered
driver's seat.
The
ASX is a competent performer on country roads
The 1.8-litre diesel has been replaced by
the 2.2-litre unit from the Outlander. So cue extra power and torque for the
subcompact crossover. Figure on 112kW of power and 366Nm of grunt. That latter
figure extends from 1,500 to 2,750rpm, meaning it's an effortless drive,
especially around city streets where it lugs away like a locomotive. Where you
needed to push the fanner 1.8 along, a gentle touch is all that's required now.
Forget about the paddle shifters too; extra pedal pressure is all you need to
stir the pot. Add lots and it runs into the eight-second bracket on its way to
the open road limit. The overall fuel use figure is not spectacular at
5.8L/100km but it's a doddle getting it into the fours at highway speeds where
it is shambling along on just 1,700rpm.
The
interior fails to offer much visual interest but gets an impressive list of
standard kit
With decent Conti Sport Contact rubber
beneath it's a bit good in the hills too, especially when it's wet and you can
call on the push button 4wd mode. The old ASX was capable and so is this. Sure,
it is a touch heavier up front than before but who cares as it's a sight
quicker. Not much in the way of a delay when you prod the loud pedal either.
Speaking of which, outside there's no mistaking the diesel clamour but it did
trick a few passengers into thinking it was petrol powered until told
otherwise. The motor is more audible about town but not so much in rural
running. Rather it is the tyre noise of 76dB-odd that is more noticeable.
Boot
holds a mid-ranking 442 litres with the rear seats up and 1,193 seats down
Not everyone needs something the size of
the average "compact" SUV, especially in town. We imagine the
slightly smaller size of the ASX will appeal to some but the Sport diesel 4WD
version isn't exactly selling at a bargain basement price against the sector
leader, CX-5. You can buy a petrol 2.5 Mazda for $1,000 less than this. If you
need diesel grunt the less expensive LS ASX at $42k makes better price sense to
us than the $46k Sport.
