By Otsile Kadiege

The Mitsubishi ASX is one of the brand’s most successful models in South Africa. The ASX was introduced back in 2011 and the Japanese automaker’s local arm sold 9,300 units since its local introduction. In a bid to make their vehicles accessible to a wider customer base, Mitsubishi SA introduced new ES specification levels for the ASX range, which an extensive list of standard comfort and safety features.

Exterior

Key features outside include LED headlights and LED daytime running lights (DRL), as well as LED fog lamps and electrically adjustable foldaway mirrors. At the rear, ES models have LED brake lights, LED taillights, LED reverse lights and a rear spoiler with a high-mounted stop lamp.

Interior

Inside, ES models include electric windows all round, fabric upholstery and manual air-conditioning. A radio/CD player is standard, while a touch display with an infotainment featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is available as an option. USB and accessory sockets are provided, as is Bluetooth connectivity with hands-free voice control. The rear seats are 60:40 split, and boot space is 406 litres. However, this can be expanded to 1,206 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Powertrain

Powering ASX ES models is Mitsubishi’s 2.0L MIVEC aluminium powerplant, offering 110kW and 197Nm. As with the LS specification level, the ES is available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-step CVT.

Safety and driver assistace systems

Like all Mitsubishi vehicles, the ASX ES is equipped with hill start assist (HSA) and active stability and traction control (ASTC), as well as anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake assist (BAS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The ASX’s body is constructed on Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) which is said to provide superior all-direction collision safety. All ASX ES models also equipped with cruise control, rear park distance control and a keyless operating system with a unique smart key that works within a 70cm radius from the vehicle for easy locking and unlocking.

Pricing and warranty

Pricing or the updated Mitsubishi ASX range is as follows:

Mitsubishi SA says the top-of-the range Aspire model is expected to arrive late March 2022. The ASX range is covered by Mitsubishi’s three-year/100,000 km manufacturer warranty, a three-year /60,000 km service plan and three-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance.