Three hybrid drives for the Mitsubishi ASX

hall / hall – Mitsubishi has set the bar high with the new ASX. Since the compact model went on sale in Germany in 2010, it has been sold more than 100,000 times. The latest model should build on that. At the same time, Mitsubishi is driving forward the power supply of its models. Offered as a compact SUV, the ASX will be available as a plug-in hybrid, a full hybrid and a subcompact hybrid. The first look at the latest model, with a length of 4.23 meters shows that the design of the ASX has been further developed in the direction of the face of the brand, which Mitsubishi calls “Dynamic Shield Design”. What is surprising is the more clearly designed front end with a large Mitsubishi logo in the middle. Strong, high skirts with a side line that rises sharply towards the back define the body and should promise a bit of sportiness. Two-tone painting is available as an option, and LED headlights and taillights are standard.

As far as can be judged after the first seat fit on the stage of the premiere, the ASX has won in its features, which include modern digital instruments and modern connectivity. Partially automated operation should protect the system which is affected to some extent by traffic conditions. Several driving modes make it possible to adjust the drive to the driving needs. Depending on the equipment line, the driver sees an analog instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch screen, a configurable digital instrument cluster with a seven-inch screen, or a 10.25-inch digital driver display. Information from the 3D navigation system is also displayed here.

A number of driving assistance systems help to identify risks at an early stage and intervene if necessary. A collision warning system with emergency brake assist including pedestrian and cyclist detection, active lane departure warning and traffic sign recognition are standard on all models. In the upper equipment lines, the blind assistant and the high-beam assistant are added. The display not only serves as a control center for the infotainment system, but also allows the new Multi-Sense system to be controlled, with which the driver can individually adjust the behavior of the steering wheel, chassis control and traction. In addition to Eco and Sport modes, a Pure electric-only driving mode is also available for the plug-in hybrid model.

All engines will be available at the launch of the market in the spring of 2023. Entry makes a three-cylinder turbo with 1.0 liters and 91 hp. In addition, the 1.3 liter turbo direct injection engine is available in two output levels. It has either 140 hp with a six-speed manual gearbox or 158 hp with a two-speed dual-clutch gearbox. At the top of the range is a plug-in hybrid with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine and two electric motors (system output 159 hp). The manufacturer says that the electric range of the 10.5 kWh battery is 49 km, and 63 km are promised even in built-up areas, but this has not yet been checked. The new ASX is also the first Mitsubishi model to be sold in Europe with a full hybrid powertrain. The 94 hp 1.6-liter gasoline engine with automatic transmission, as well as two electric motors (together 143 hp), ensures the most fuel-efficient operation. When decelerating and stopping, energy is recovered. This stored energy helps the petrol engine accelerate and produce additional torque.

With the ASX, Mitsubishi upholds the old promise of service from the brand. There is a five-year warranty (up to 100,000 km). Models with plug-in hybrid and full hybrid drive also come with an eight-year warranty on the drive battery (up to 160,000 km). The new ASX is based on the technical platform used for models in the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. That there is even a new Mitsubishi in Europe is surprising. Two years ago, the Japanese had announced that they would no longer manufacture models for this market. Then the composition of the staff at the head of the car quartet changed. The new boss of Renault made a strong case for the ASX and the partnership, because the Japanese is an offshoot of the Renault Captur, it has the same technology and key design elements. The new ASX should be available from dealers in March 2023, prices are yet to be announced. Renault Captur costs from 22,700 euros. The price of the Mitsubishi ASX should also be expected in this region.