Mitsubishi ASX 2014 News

Mitsubishi has released the first images and details of the new XR-PHEV II SUV concept which will debut at the Geneva motor show next month. An evolution of the XR-PHEV concept shown at Tokyo in 2013, this latest creation looks to be closer to a production model and likely hints at a replacement for the current ASX small SUV.Like the previous XR-PHEV, the new concept also uses a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that likely previews a production model that would sit beneath the existing Outlander PHEV. The XR II shares its 2670mm wheelbase with the current ASX but is slightly longer overall, wider and taller and features a significantly more muscular and daring design.A unique and heavily defined character line runs the length of the car and blends into the rear tailgate and the design features a Range Rover Evoque-like rising belt line.The XR PHEV II's look is a dramatic departure from Mitsubishi's current design language and features noticably more aggressive and angular lines, which are likely to be toned down for production. Powering the concept is a small petrol engine combined with a 120kW electric motor driving the front wheels. Like the Outlander PHEV, the XR PHEV II runs in full electric mode ordinarily, but the petrol engine will chime in if the batteries need to be charged or if extra urge is needed - the combustion engine can work as either a generator or directly power the wheels. The driver is also able to control the hybrid powertrain manually through selectable drive modes, allowing for full combined power or pure electric driving at any time.  Mitsubishi claims the car is able to emit less than 40g/km of CO2 while also benefiting from the instant power and torque provided by electric motors.

New Honda Jazz sets new benchmark for rear view cameras: $14,990.

Toyota-owned badge Daihatsu retired from our market in 2005, but a void in Toyota’s line-up could see some of the Daihatsu product return in the form of the small Terios SUV rebadged as a Toyota Rush.Toyota is keen to capitalise on a growing sub $25,000 compact SUV market segment. Sales are thriving, with a new Nissan Juke, Suzuki SX4, Holden Trax, Ford EcoSport and Fiat Panda all joining the Mitsubishi ASX in the search for a slice of the market. Toyota doesn’t currently have a competitor in this segment, with the bigger RAV4 starting at $28,490.But Toyota has an advantage in this rivalry: It owns Daihatsu – Japan’s oldest car manufacturer and small car specialist. The first generation Daihatsu Terios sold in Australia between 1997 and 2005, creating the same compact 5-door SUV segment that is now thriving. But the current model never made it to our shores due to Daihatsu’s local retirement.Toyota has successfully sold the Rush in overseas markets for over a decade, and the current model since its introduction in 2006. It is powered by an 80kW, 141Nm 1.5-litre VVT-I engine, featuring a five speed manual and four speed automatic. But unlike other cars in this segment, it has permanent four-wheel drive and a central differential lock, which combined with short overhangs, gives the Rush more offroad credibility than most of its competitors.However, a two wheel drive version is also on offer, for buyers who prefer the extra height and space but not the extra capability of a small SUV. With a kerb weight of just 1180kg for the four wheel drive model, the Rush is a relative lightweight, which should help keep running costs low.If Toyota Australia decides to tackle the compact SUV market with the Rush, it will be the first time a car manufactured by Daihatsu is sold in Australia since 2005. However, a new Rush is expected sometime next year, featuring improvements to power, safety and refinement. This means it’s likely Toyota Australia will wait until then to introduce the Rush into Australian showrooms. 

Mitsubishi has issued a safety recall on their diesel ASX SUV for faulty piston rings that could become stuck while in operation, due to soot deposits collecting in the piston ring grooves because of a glitch in the software that is supposed to prevent deposits accumulating.The recall notice affects 1588 ASXs built in 2011 and 2012 powered by the 4N13 1.8-litre diesel engine. The defect could see the pistons overheat and melt, with affected vehicles stalling and becoming impossible to restart, Mitsubishi says.However the carmaker says there have been no reported incidents in Australia related to the fault, which will take about 20 minutes to rectify with a software update, spokesman John Taylor says.Owners who believe their vehicles may be affected by the recall are advised to drive gently until able to have their ASX inspected by their closest Mitsubishi dealer and fixed if needed.This reporter is on Twitter: @KarlaPincott 

Mitsubishi has repositioned the price tags of several ASX models, and boosted their spec lists to sweeten the deal. The entry level 2WD ASX now costs $24,990 for a five speed manual or $26,990 if you opt for the automatic CVT gearbox. This represents a $1000 and $1250 saving respectively over the outgoing model.Those looking for extra traction can choose the all-wheel drive model at $33,490 for the CVT, saving $1000 over the outgoing model. Additions across the range are 17-in alloy wheels, chrome grille, reverse parking sensors and reversing camera with parking referencing lines. The entertainment system has been upgraded too, featuring a 6.1” colour screen and voice controls for Bluetooth.Mitsubishi has also upgraded the shape of the cushions in the back seat, and updated the suspension aiming to deliver a better ride quality. Tweaks have been made to the cabin in a bid to reduce road noise too. Modest fuel economy improvements are claimed on petrol models. This is attributed to a new manifold catalytic converter and air flow sensor and injector, bringing fuel consumption down by 0.1L/100km in the manual and 0.2L/100km in the CVT.Buyers looking for a little extra equipment can chose the ASX Aspire, with the 2WD now scoring roof rails and a panoramic roof (previously only standard on AWD Aspire models). Also on the new standard list is the Multi Communication System – which adds a 7” colour screen, 3D navigation mapping and an SD card input.Mitsubishi spokesperson Caitlin Beale says the MCS is worth about $2000. Previously, the system was part of an option pack worth $2995 that also included a Rockford Fosgate sound system with 9 speakers. Aspire models get four speakers and two tweeters as standard instead. Savings of $1500 apply to the Aspire 4WD model which now costs $33,490. The Aspire 2WD is the only model to receive a price increase of $250, now listed at $31,490.Those looking to select their own gears to save $2500 on an Aspire will be disappointed to know the slow-selling manual transmission can no longer be had in the 2WD Aspire – an option previously available for $28,990. The recently launched 110kW, 2.2-litre turbodiesel mated to a six speed automatic and all-wheel drive retains its $31,990 price, and the top of the range Aspire diesel remains at $36,490 as well.

Just seven months after launching a refreshed ASX range Mitsubishi has added a new model to the stable. For the first time ASX will have an all-wheel-drive, turbodiesel variant with an automatic transmission. The company also confirmed at the launch of the latest ASX that the current 1.8-litre turbo diesel, only available with a manual shifter, will be phased out later in the year. The smaller diesel was a stop-gap model to introduce diesel to the small SUV range. Mitsubishi’s market research shows automatic diesels in the compact SUV segment in Australia dominate sales, well ahead of manual versions. Mitsubishi is not the first importer to have added an auto diesel to their stable. Subaru introduced a diesel auto to its Outback AWD range early this year. The research also found more women than men are buying ASX-size SUVs - indicating their dominant use as a family-friendly wagon. The ASX diesel auto drivetrain is a direct lift out of the larger Mitsubishi Outlander SUV. There are two equipment levels for the new diesel ASX, the ASX 2.2 at $31,990 and the ASX 2.2 Aspire at $36,490. The new ASX 2.2 offers combined fuel consumption of 5.8 litres/100 km - just above the 5.7 litres/100 km delivered by the current 1.8 litre ASX diesel manual. Emissions are also line ball and meet tough European standards. The new diesel has a braked towing rate of 1400 kg while the variant tips the scales at 1530 kg. The new engine is hooked up to a six-speed conventional transmission with a flick-across option to change manually. The Aspire variant also offers steering wheel paddles to change cogs. We took the both ASX 2.2 AWD auto diesel variants for a run through the Adelaide Hills towards Murray Bridge giving the opportunity to test handling and acceleration and the diesel/auto combination in a variety of road conditions. After almost 300 kilometres we can say this new variant is the pick of the bunch offering economy and performance in a neat package. The turbo-diesel and the 6-speed auto are a good match and the SUV is quick both off the mark and the vital passing range between 80 - 110 km/h range. Gear changes are slick and smooth. At 110 km/h the new ASX is ticking over at around 1800 km/h ensuring low fuel consumption for highway running. Mitsubishi ASX product planner, Ania Ciccarello, said growth in the small or compact SUV segment was strong with sales doubling between 2010 when 30,000 were sold, rising to 60,683 in 2012. It was a segment dominated by women and parents which research shows are placing high importance on reliability, safety, value and economy. The ASX comes with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating with seven airbags, reversing camera, stability control, hill start, Iso-Fix children's seat anchors. The top-of-the-line Aspire also gains Mitsubishi's Multi Communication System (MMCS) as standard and uses a bigger 7-inch colour touchscreen with satellite navigation with 3D mapping and SD car input. Aspire also gains leather trim, smart key entry with a one-touch start system, auto rain-sensing wipers, auto dusk sensing headlights, power driver's seat, front row heated seats, panoramic roof and LED lighting strip. Mitsubishi expects to sell around 150 ASX 2.2 auto AWD diesels a month. Interestingly, Mitsubishi Australia is dropping the 2WD Challenger from the line-up to concentrate on it's tough 4WD off-roader capability. The Mitsubishi ASX range is (pricing as of July 2013): ASX 2WD 5MT: from $25,990 ASX 2WD CVT: from $28,240 ASX 2WD Aspire 5MT: from $28,990 ASX 2WD Aspire CVT: from $31,240 ASX 4WD 2.2L Turbo Diesel  6AT: from $31,990 ASX 4WD Aspire 1.8L Turbo Diesel  6MT: from $34,990 ASX 4WD Aspire CVT: from $34,990 ASX 4WD Aspire 2.2 Turbo Diesel  6AT: from $36,490  

This limited edition Mitsubishi ASX builds on the popular 2WD variant with a number of interior and exterior upgrades. Like most vehicles in the MY12 update, the Anniversary ASX has a rear-view camera. The monitor automatically appears in the electro-chromatic rear-view mirror when reverse gear is engaged. It is available with a 2.0-litre, four cylinder DOHC 16 valve MIVEC engine coupled with either five-speed manual transmission or CVT with INVECS III. The special edition ASX's interior receives a number of luxury upgrades including leather seat trim, heated front seats and power driver's seat while cabin convenience is enhanced through the inclusion of steering wheel audio controls and Bluetooth. The addition of 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome muffler tip, privacy glass and special edition 30th Anniversary badges updates the exterior while the striking ROAR body-kit, which includes front air dam, front bumper cover, rear air dam and single rear muffler, enhances the sporty lines of the ASX. Prices start at $28,990 for the manual.

It scored the five-star safety ranking in a fresh round of NCAP testing in Europe that includes the first results for an electric car - a four-star score for the Mitsubishi iMiEV. The Citroen C-Zero and Peugeot's iOn, which share the basic design of the iMiEV, also got a four-star score. In other results, the Hyundai ix20 - a baby MPV under consideration for local sales - also got five stars and the bargain Dacia Duster was a three-star disappointment. The Mitsubishi result with the iMiEV wins praise from the head of Euro NCAP, Dr Michiel van Ratingen, "We recognize the efforts done by Mitsubishi to demonstrate that plug-  in battery powered cars can be as safe as others. It shows that a future 5 star accolade for EVs is not unthinkable," he says. "Whether produced by established car manufacturers or by new players on the market, consumers should expect to get electric vehicles that meet the same safety standards as conventional vehicles." Euro NCAP confirms its real-world emphasis by testing the iMiEV with 'live' batteries, also emphasising the post-crash battery integrity and operation of the battery cut-off switch. At the same time as the latest European results, the Kia Optima - already one of the surprising delights in Australia in 2010 - became the first Korean car to achieve the highest safety rating from the National Highway Transport Safety Administration in the USA. It gets a five-star ranking under a system that includes tougher new crash tests.  

It appears in the Mitsubishi lineup midway between a Lancer Sportback and an Outlander.  It’s officially an SUV, but with one 2WD model in the range, and compact dimensions, the ASX has more than a touch of car-like civility about it. It’s a smart move for Mitsubishi, effectively giving Lancer customers wanting something closer to an SUV an in-house option, at the same time as giving Outlander customers who want to downsize to something a little more car-like the same option – only in reverse. In fact, all three vehicles share the same platform (the automotive equivalent of architectural underpinnings). Compared with Outlander, the ASX shares many other components – such as brakes, suspension and AWD system. The ASX is a five-seater available with either a 1.8-litre turbodiesel engine with 110kW and 300Nm or a 2.0-litre petrol four with 110kW and 197Nm. The ASX marks the first time an Australian-delivered passenger car with a Mitsubishi badge has been available with a diesel engine. It’s also the highlight of the range. The diesel is available with a six-speed manual transmission – an automatic is on the way – while the petrol gets the option of a continuously variable transmission and comes standard with a five-speed manual. There are three variants available – 2WD, 4WD and Aspire. The 2WD entry-level ASX is available with the 2.0-litre petrol engine and is a front-wheel-drive proposition. The 4WD and Aspire ASX models have the option of either petrol or diesel, and both get the AWD transmission. Headlining the range, ASX Aspire gets 17-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, hands-free proximity smart key technology, dusk-sensing headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, power adjustment on the driver’s seat and Mitsubishi’s Multi-Communications System (MCS) – which boils down to audio, sat-nav and Bluetooth all rolled up in the one unit. MCS is a 40gb hard-drive-based system that allocates up to 15gb for your favourite tunes, controllable via a seven-inch LCD display. The LCD also becomes a reversing camera monitor whenever reverse is selected – with potential life-saving benefits. And the audio is pumped through the vehicle via a quality Rockford Fosgate system packing 710 watts of aural punch. Safety gets a big tick across the ASX range too, with stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, ABS with EBD, an emergency stopping signaling system, and seven airbags. Not bad for a vehicle that kicks off at just $25,990.

But Mitsubishi has taken the letters and massaged them into its newest off-roader and called it the Active Sports Crossover, or ASX.  The newest member of the Mitsubishi team arrives in local showrooms in August.It will line up next to the Kia Sportage, Hyundai ix35, Holden Captiva 5, Suzuki Grand Vitara and Nissan Dualis in the ultra-competitive sub-$30,000 compact off-roader arena. Mitsubishi Australia Ltd president and CEO, Masahiko Takahashi, says it will be sold as a manoeuvrable city car that could bring new buyers into the Mitsubishi family.  "It also has the added benefit of being very smart, especially in terms of the technology that drives its engineering, design and all-wheel drive ability," he says.The ASX was originally born as the cX concept at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.  The finished product has links with both the Outlander and Lancer Evolution X and borrows the ‘family’ look front end.  In size, it is 345mm shorter than the Outlander and 200g lighter.The production car also uses a one-piece hatch instead of the two-piece doors on the concept.  Japanese versions are powered by either 1.8 or 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engines.  Although local specifications are yet to be released, both petrol and diesel engines – as well as front or all-wheel drive versions – are tipped.Takahashi says as an entry off-roader, the ASX has the potential to drive strong sales to supplement the Triton, Outlander and Pajero.  It will be pitched into the profitable compact off-roader segment, which is experiencing massive growth.Off-roader sales are up 35 per cent this year as buyers move out of family sedans and into lifestyle vehicles.  "The global trend is for smaller compact off-roaders," he says.  "We believe this trend will become very noticeable in Australia as well."With the appeal of front-wheel drive crossovers growing, the new Mitsubishi chief says the company is also looking at adding a front-drive version of the bigger Outlander later this year.  "It's under consideration," he says.