It’s official. The Mitsubishi Outlander at long last has a smaller and sportier sibling: the all-new ASX compact crossover that was launched in Japan this February. This sleek little sister (or brother) is said to be the perfect cross between the Lancer’s savvy on-road appeal and the Outlander’s off-road ruggedness, living up to the brand’s endless pursuit of fantasised SUV-ness.
Offering the same clever AWC electronically-controlled 4WD system and most of Outlander’s lower structure, including MacPherson front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, the ASX has everything to make it the perfect on-road crossover. It boasts a host of active and passive safety features as well as seven airbags, including an airbag at the driver’s knees. A first for Mitsubishi is the introduction of an electric power steering mechanism to further lower emissions in the ASX. It’s also fitted with both tilt and telescopic adjustments for the steering wheel. The AXS comes in two different engine variations – the 1,8 DiD MIVEC with 6-speed manual transmission (available in 2WD and 4WD) and the 1,6 petrol MIVEC with a 5-speed manual transmission, in 2WD. A lot of attention has gone into creating a haven for touchy-feely interior-istas. The colour scheme is mostly black monotone with various textures and materials for an understated, yet smart and sporty feel. Automatic air-conditioning, rain and dusk sensors, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel, rear parking monitor, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, privacy glass, Super HiD “Wide Vision” xenon headlamps, keyless operation system, engine stop-start button, leather upholstery, Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System with HDD navigation system and music server, Rockford Fosgate Premium audio, is just a few of the things that will make driving the ASX feel like sitting in your lounge. The Crossover will go sale in Europe after the Geneva Motorshow in Spring this year. Let’s see if it makes its way to the South African market.
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