Mitsubishi ASX 2,0 MPi 4x2

MITSUBISHI doesn’t currently offer an extensive local model line-up, but this should change from the first quarter of 2012 with a number of new-model introductions in the pipeline. The Pajero SUV and Triton bakkie range have a moderately strong following in South Africa, but their sales figures are hardly competitive. As for the Outlander and Lancer – in October, only six models in total left dealer floors.

Therefore, when Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, now under the management of a subsidiary of Imperial Motor Holdings (the Japanese brand’s vehicles were previously imported and distributed by Mercedes-Benz South Africa), released its new crossover to the local market, it wanted us to take special notice.

The ASX (Active Sporty Crossover) is an important product for the company – its management is positive the newcomer will be a volume seller. International and domestic markets have shown a strong shift in the preferences of the buying public towards crossovers. It’s simple: the crossover has become the new family saloon.

From an aesthetic point of view, the ASX is unmistakably part of the Mitsubishi family. The front aspect is dominated by an aggressive trapezoidal grille; this design is also found on the Mitsubishi Lancer saloon and the Outlander SUV. The well proportioned rear is one of this crossover’s most flattering aspects – it reminded most CAR testers of the BMW X1 SUV.

In South Africa, Mitsubishi will initially offer three ASX models. Each version is powered by 110 kW 2,0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, while the two lower-spec models share a five-speed manual gearbox that drives the front wheels. Apart from the top-of-the-range model, which has a CVT transmission that also drives the front wheels, the differences between the three are down to specification levels. And it’s the latter that had us scratching our chins.

The unit we tested was a mid-spec model and, although it has a generously sized panoramic sunroof as standard, only the top CVT-equipped model offers cruise control. South Africans tend to travel long distances, therefore cruise control would make more sense than the glass roof or even the standard heated front seats.

Still, the basic ASX (which retails for R279 900) as well as the model we tested (R299 900) offer rear park-distance control, seven airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, and headlamp washers. Again, you have to opt for the more expensive (R319 900) flagship model to acquire traction and active stability control – safety systems that are standard on one of the ASX’s main competitors, the Nissan Qashqai 2,0 Acenta 4x2.

In terms of brawn, the 2,0-litre engine’s power and torque outputs are in line with its competitors. It’s naturally aspirated, so you have to use the upper end of the rev range to make rapid progress in overtaking conditions, especially at altitude, but it never seriously lacked in punch.

During our standard acceleration tests, it fared rather well, recording a 0-100 km/h time of 9,37 seconds. This is a full second faster than the two rivals listed alongside. During these testing procedures and in normal driving, it was a real pleasure to use the five-speed manual transmission thanks to short throws and a direct shift action. The steering wheel offered sufficient feedback and feel, something that cannot be said of its Hyundai ix35 rival.

Those who expect a comfortable experience in terms of ride quality might be a tad disappointed. The ASX has a rather choppy ride in town driving but, to its credit, the crossover handles reassuringly thanks to adequate grip levels. The nervous suspension does settle a little on the open road at higher speeds. A further hamper to driver comfort is the fact that members of CAR’s test team struggled to find an ideal driving position despite the wide range of adjustment available on the seat and steering column.

The ASX’s standard boot size is slightly smaller compared with the Qashqai and ix35, for example. But, once the 60:40 split rear seats are folded down, this slight disadvantage is mitigated and the Mitsubishi offers utility capacity that compares favourably with its rivals from Japan and Korea. Rear kneeroom is on par, too, but headroom is limited. Families will be happy to know that both outer rear seats offer Isofix child-seat anchorages.

The interior design and construction proved to be another bone of contention in the CAR office. One tester put it well by saying the ASX simply has no party tricks. Perceived quality is good and the layout of the various control functions is logical, but it doesn’t feel like a cabin that is suited to a R300 000 vehicle.

TEST SUMMARY

Mitsubishi urgently needed a new product to expand its local range. Entering the lucrative crossover segment was a clever move, but the ASX fails to compete on all levels with the best in this class.

It is by no means a sub-par product, but its unconvincing specification level, unresolved dynamics and comparatively steep price tag will make it hard for the Japanese brand to achieve healthy sales numbers. Put simply, it’s not enough crossover for the money.