The compact SUV in the Mitsubishi showroom is the ASX, slotting in between the Xpander and Eclipse Cross in price. The Xpander is more of a multi-purpose vehicle, while the Eclipse is a crossover.
The ASX is a practical, compact family-size SUV that will please most small families, being that excellent compromise between being handy in town and big enough for a holiday trip.
The engineering is solid, though not fancy, but this is a good thing as there is less to go wrong and everything works well. I think it will be an honest workhorse for years with the minimum required maintenance.
There are two trim levels: LS and ES with about R30 000 difference between them. For this you get smartphone-link digital display audio, climate control, chromatic rear-view mirror, foldaway mirrors, 18” wheels, glass roof and “leather” seats. You can also choose between manual and CVT for R20 000.
The interior of both trim levels is neat and functional. The multi-function steering wheel is tilt and telescopic adjustable, there is also a multi-information display with Bluetooth and USB, cruise control, 60/40 split rear seats, lots of nooks and crannies to store things and easy-to-use instrumentation and switchgear.
It has a smart key with keyless entry and button ignition. Fit and finish seems to be good.
The DOHC 2.0 4-cylinder normally aspirated petrol engine is mated with either a 6-speed CVT or 5-speed manual box and puts out 110 kw and 197 Nm. In real life performance is good, with good overtaking power and really pleasant road manners. Although Mitsubishi claims 7.5 to 7.9 L/100 km I got 8.5 L/100 km in general driving.
The ASX is the ideal car for a young family. Big enough for all the sport or weekend kit but small enough to fit in town. This is the type of car that will become part of the family.
The ASX is priced from R371 995 for the ES Manual to R441 995 for the LS CVT and comes with all the required safety specs.
Also consider the Toyota Corolla Cross (especially the hybrid), Suzuki Vitara, Peugeot 2008 (a beauty), Nissan Qashqai (the original compact SUV), Mazda CX3 and the Koreans. The Haval Jolion is a bit more compact but worth looking at. The Haval H6 is an interesting possibility.
