Mitsubishi’s ASX crossover has been given a midlife model revision to help further extend its popularity in South Africa. The 2013 ASX combines sleeker styling with a more upmarket interior, while improved specification levels now provide better value-for-money.
Since its global introduction in 2010, the ASX has sold more than 300 000 units, with 1 500 of the units coming from South Africa. The Mitsubishi ASX is currently being sold in more than 100 countries worldwide.
The Mitsubishi’s drivetrain remains unchanged, with the ASX 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine still combining with a choice of either a 5-speed manual or CVT (continuously variable transmission) gearbox. The three specification levels offered in the Mitsubishi ASX (GL, GLX and GLS) are also unchanged from before.
Added convenience comes in the form of hands-free Bluetooth connectivity as standard across the range, as well as USB-based iPod/iPhone and flash drive functionality, all synced with Mitsubishi’s voice-activated Link system.
On the exterior, the 2013 ASX gets a redesigned front grille, new front and rear bumpers with new subtle chrome accents, as well as revised fog light surrounds. The revised rear styling is less obvious, but matches the smoother lines of the front, with the contrasting lower apron of the rear bumper adding a different visual appeal.
The interior of the 2013 ASX has been enhanced with soft-touch surfaces, for an improved sense of tactile quality, while other bits receive more chrome detailing. The GL and GLX models get an updated sound system, while the flagship GLS derivative is fitted with a sophisticated infotainment system featuring a six-inch touch-screen display.
The display is also linked to a rear-view camera and parking assistance. A nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system is offered as an option on the top-end GLS version. Mitsubishi say the system delivers high-quality sound and bass response with a powerful punch.
The 2013 ASX remain just as versatile as before, with a rear 60:40 split bench seat, luggage capacity of 442-litres and a total capacity of 1 193-litres with the seats folded down. Notable standard specification on the GLX and GLS models are the full-length glass panoramic roof; LED ambient strip lighting; 17-inch alloy wheels; auto-activating headlights, rain sensing wipers and electric driver seat adjustment.
The maximum power is still 110 kW with maximum torque peak of 197 Nm. The resultant performance is a 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time of less than 10-seconds and a top speed of 196 km/h. Fuel consumption on the combined-cycle is rated at 7.5 L/100 km in the case of the manual-gearbox derivatives, while the CVT-equipped GLS is thirstier.
| Pricing (Incl. VAT and CO2 Tax) | |
| 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 (Rockford Fosgate) | R342 900 |
All models feature a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 5-year/90 000 km service plan.
