Mitsubishi’s nicely-styled ASX compact SUV is finally ready to fight a fair fight for sales in the compact SUV segment with the arrival of a six-speed automatic transmission for turbo-diesel models.
But it’s not as straightforward as that. While Mitsubishi ASX turbo-diesels employing the six-speed manual transmission are powered by a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine, the six-speed automatic get a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel shared with the larger Outlander. Compared to the 1.8-litre engine, the new 2.2-litre provides exactly the same power (110kW) but 60Nm extra torque at 360Nm from 1500rpm.
Fuel consumption is virtually identical too – 5.7l/100kms for the 1.8-litre manuals and 5.8l/100kms for the 2.2-litre automatics.
Both of the turbo-diesel models are exclusively all-wheel-drive and are available in both entry-level and up-scale ‘Aspire’ models. The entry-level 2.2-litre is priced from $31,990 while the Aspire version is stickered at $34,990.
Addition of the turbo-diesel automatic versions rounds-out the Model Year 13 Mitsubishi ASX range which was launched late last year. Softer on the outside with more front-end curves, a new grille and re-styled rear bumper, the updated Mitsubishi ASX also scored new instruments, a new steering wheel, new seat trims and some extra chrome to liven things up.
As we know, petrol power is exclusive in 2WD Mitsubishi ASX and also available in 4WD (‘Aspire’ grade) in the form of Mitsubishi’s 110kW/197Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder driving through either a five-speed manual transmission or CVT automatic.
Importantly for this segment, the MY13 ASX lists increased towing capacities of 1300kgs (petrol) and 1400kgs (diesel).
The full lineup looks like this:
2WD 5MT $25,990
2WD CVT $28,240
2WD Aspire 5MT $28,990
2WD Aspire CVT $31,240
4WD 2.2-litre T/D 6AT $31,990
4WD Aspire 1.8-litre T/D 6MT $34,990
4WD Aspire CVT $34,990
4WD Aspire 2.2-litre T/D 6AT $36,490
Stepping up to the Aspire 2WD model brings extras like 17-inch alloy wheels, reversing camera, front fog lights, leather seats (fronts heated and power adjustment for the driver), privacy glass, auto headlights and wipers, smart key and push-button starts. The Aspire AWD goes further with a panoramic glass roof and push-button 4X4 controls between the front seats. Aspire turbo-diesels add the Mitsubishi Multi Communications System (optional on other Aspire models).
