New face for the new model year. For 2017, Mitsubishi has seen it fit to make some cosmetic changes to its ASX crossover for the new year, bringing its design in line with the current language.
At the front the ASX sports a new ‘Dynamic Shield’ face, which we’ve already seen on the Pajero Sport and Outlander models, as well as on a number of concept cars. That wraps up the exterior changes to the ageing SUV, as the profile and rear of the car see no changes whatsoever.
“The new, Dynamic Shield 2017 ASX will make a bold statement with plenty of youthful appeal, and new features to help it remain one of Australia’s most popular small SUVs,” said Mitsubishi Australia’s head of marketing, Tony Principe. Minor changes include things like a ‘shark fin’ antenna on the roof, a redesigned seat height adjuster for the base LS model, new cloth seat trim with red stitching, and revised rear seat-base bolstering.
A new key fob is available on the LS variant, while the XLS moves the heated-switch buttons to the instrument panel. The XLS also sees a revised infotainment system, with a new audio menu design and improved graphics to make the infotainment system feel a little more polished. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been given a miss though, but Mitsubishi Australia has confirmed that the software is being considered, and may be rolled out with a future update.
The ASX’s 5-star ANCAP safety rating remains unchanged, as with its seven airbags, reverse sensors and back-up camera. Drivetrain options remain as before, with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, available with a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic. 110kW of power and 197Nm are on offer, with power going only to the front wheels. This combination claims 7.6l/100km for the stick-shifter, 7.4l/100km for the CVT auto.
There’s also a diesel four-wheel drive variant available, also offering 110kW but a whopping 360Nm from its turbocharged 2.2-litre four pot. The oil-burner is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission. Prices for the base LS car starts at $25,000 and climbs to $32,500, while the higher-spec XLS starts at $31,500 and rises to $37,000. All prices exclude ORC.
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