The updated Mitsubishi ASX Aspire 1.8-litre turbo diesel AWD has been designed to appeal to family car buyers who want something a little different from the standard family hatchback.
The ASX interior is spacious with a quality feel.The centre console and air-conditioning are straight out of the Lancer and the dash is from the Outlander. The multi-function steering wheel is adjustable for both reach and rake. The driver sits high which gives a good view when driving although the high bonnet makes it a bit tricky to judge where the front is.
The ASX is roomy, with reasonable space for four adults. Rear passengers get good legroom and shoulder room and an armrest. Up front there are several storage areas including in door pockets that can take a 500ml bottle, large glove box and central console with storage area and cup holders.
Standard features include fully automatic climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, leather seats with seat heating for the front, power driver’s seat, keyless operating system with a one-touch start, automatic windscreen wipers and lights, electric windows and exterior mirrors, electric tailgate opener, front fog lamps and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The ASX Aspire also features a premium Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers and the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (MMCS), which includes satellite navigation, DVD with video input, Bluetooth with steering wheel mounted controls, iPod integration and control, and reversing camera.
The ASX is a car ideally suited to family motoring. The boot size is big enough and the back seats spilt on a 60/40 basis for further flexibility, and there is a through-load ski hatch. The boot floor also lifts up to reveal extra storage space.
The ASX with a 5 star ANCAP safety rating comes with up to seven airbags, including driver’s knee airbag, electronic stability system, hill start assist etc.
The 1.8-litre turbo diesel engine has plenty of grunt to keep things moving along and was surprisingly quiet for a Mitsubishi diesel. It produces 110Kw @ 4,000 rpm and torque of 300Nm @ 2,000 rpm and drives through a smooth 6 speed manual transmission. It is very smooth to drive around town and on the freeway.
Combined with the car’s nimble handling it feels a pleasure to use both round town and on more twisty roads and is sure footed even on bush trails.
For those wanting to get off the beaten track, be mindful that this isn’t a heavy-duty 4X4, so stick to beaches or dirt roads etc. For really rough or slippery off-road conditions, the system provides a 4WD Lock mode that transfers around 1.5 times the torque to the rear wheels to improve traction.
Overall the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire is a surprisingly good package that provides the driving experience of a standard hatchback but with the benefits of a 4×4 such as high driving position and four-wheel drive. The diesel is willing, economical and provides pleasant driving. Mitsubishi has created a brilliant AWD SUV that is great value, practical and safe with standout looks that will make your friends envious.
What is good:
• Diesel’s good power/economy
• Practical family car
• Lots of standard features
What’s not so good:
• Back seats lack support
• No auto version in diesel
• Indicator sound drives you nuts
Model Mitsubishi ASX Aspire
Model Price $42,341 RDAP
Drivetrain AWD 1.8L TDi 6 speed man
Power 110 Kw @ 4,000 rpm
Torque 300 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Safety 5 Star ANCAP
CO2 Emissions 149 g/km
Green Vehicle Rating 3 ½ Star
Economy (ADR comb) 5.9 L/100km
Tow Capacity – Max 1400 kg
Tow Ball Rating 140 kg
Servicing $950 – 3yrs/45,000km
Warranty 5yr/ 130,000 km with full roadside assist
Overall OzRoamer Rating 81/100
Behind the Wheel 8
Comfort 8
Equipment 9
Performance 8
Ride & Handling 8
Practicality 9
Fit for Purpose 10
Towing Ability 6
Off Road Ability 6
Value for Money 9
