SUV utility meets sedan agility in Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia’s new model
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, the official importer and distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, launched its latest model nationwide today – the highly anticipated Mitsubishi ASX compact crossover. This stylish global model was developed to combine the utility and practicality of an SUV with the comfort of a sedan in just the right size.
Mitsubishi ASX
The ASX (Active Smart X-over – pronounced as ‘crossover’) was launched in Japan by the name of RVR in February this year.
The ASX is available in five colours; including the signature Kawasemi Blue (Kawasemi is the Japanese name for Kingfisher bird). Priced at RM136, 208.10 on the road excluding insurance, it is fully imported from Japan.
Adding another passenger vehicle to the Mitsubishi range in Malaysia, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is targeting monthly sales of 100 units for this model.
“The new ASX is a brilliant urban vehicle – it is stylish, drives well, compact on the outside yet spacious inside, combining the good points of an SUV and a sedan. It has been very well received across the globe and I’m confident that the ASX will appeal to Malaysians as well,” said Tetsuya Oda, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.
(L-R) CEO Tetsuya Oda, Michiko Yamada from Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Japan (MMC), Head of Marketing &
Product Planning Adeline Lew, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia and COO Omar Haron, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.
Product Planning Adeline Lew, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia and COO Omar Haron, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.
“The ASX will enable us to compete in the new, fast-growing two-wheel drive compact SUV market segment in Malaysia and allow us to attract new customers to the Mitsubishi brand. Malaysians will now have an even greater range of vehicles to choose from,” added Oda.
The ASX is powered by a 2.0-litre engine with DOHC, 16 valves and Mitsubishi’s proprietary MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control) technology that optimises valve timing at all points in the rev range. This lightweight, aluminium block engine produces a powerful workhorse of 150 PS and 197 Nm torque.
Responsible for good fuel economy are smooth aerodynamics (Cd 0.33) and reduced weight. The former is achieved by lowering the rear roof edge and smoothening the under floor of the ASX, while engineers trimmed weight by using fenders made of resin. Other contributors include the use of electronic control power steering, reduction of engine friction plus the change in the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system control and gear ratio.
Equipment levels are generous. The ASX comes with standard Active Stability Control (ASC), Hill Start Assist and dual front airbags plus a driver’s knee airbag. Also included are leather seats, 2 DIN LCD touch screen entertainment system, reverse camera, automatic air conditioning and cruise control. There is also a full colour LCD multi information system in the instrument panel.
For those owners who want to spice up their ASX, Mitsubishi Motors genuine accessories are available from Japan. There are 13 optional accessories to choose from such as aerokits, shift knob, scuff plates, luggage mat and many more. On top of that, Mitsubishi is offering a special package price of RM 6,490 for all 13 items.
The new Mitsubishi ASX comes with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty. Mitsubishi’s 2-Year Free Maintenance package is also offered for owners to enjoy a hassle-free drive with free maintenance parts and labour costs.
The ASX will be showcased at Centre Court of Midvalley shopping centre from 10-14 November, where visitors can touch and feel the car. Ralliart merchandise will also be on sale at the event.
More about Mitsubishi ASX
Not bulky in footprint at under 4.3 metres long, but spacious enough inside thanks to a generous 2,670 mm wheelbase, the development team chose a ‘Smart Size’ for the ASX.
It’s more compact than a conventional C-segment SUV, but is upsized from a compact car and has the commanding seating position owners love in an SUV. Turning radius is a class leading 5.3 metres. No need to choose between sedan agility and SUV utility, the ASX offers both.
The trendy and urban styling of the ASX is distinctive, thanks to the trademark Mitsubishi “jet fighter” front grille and assertive headlamps. The prominent design line on the flanks and a gently curving roof line make up the dynamic profile.
To harness the power and provide a seamless drive, the ASX 2.0-litre engine is mated to an INVECS-III CVT gearbox with 6-step Sports Mode. Besides selection via the gear lever, Sports Mode can be engaged with the generously sized magnesium steering paddles, which allows the driver to switch from smooth progress to sporty driving anytime.
The ASX comes with a host of active and passive safety features. Mitsubishi’s strong and rigid RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body protects occupants by employing strategic front and rear crumple zones to absorb and disperse impact, while the use of high tensile steel provides strength without the weight penalty.
In addition to ABS and EBD, the ASX comes with Active Stability Control (ASC) as standard. ASC applies brake pressure and regulates engine torque when the system detects loss of traction. This helps keep the car on the intended path. The all independent suspension (front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link, both with stabilizer bars) has been tuned for a high level of agility and stability.
Another feature is Hill Start Assist, which works to prevent the car from sliding backwards on a slope. The ASX comes with dual front airbags plus a driver’s knee airbag.
The simple yet stylish cabin features quality soft touch panel and luxurious leather seats. The tilt and telescopic steering wheel and gear knob are also leather wrapped. The comprehensive equipment list also includes a 2 DIN LCD touch screen entertainment system incorporating a reverse camera, automatic air conditioning with air filter and cruise control.
There is also a full colour LCD multi information system nestled between the sporty main dials. For added convenience, the ASX comes with automatic retractable door mirrors.
The ASX was also shown to the world at this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March. The ASX was inspired by the Mitsubishi Concept-cX shown at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. The show star received good response, and Mitsubishi Motors set out to build a compact crossover that carries the brand’s trademark bold design and strong driving performance.
