Mitsubishi’s updated ASX makes a louder statement in a fiercer segment
THE crossover SUV that made a “quiet” entrance in the Philippines in 2010 now has a reloaded version. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. has introduced the 2017 version of the Mitsubishi ASX, which stands for Active Sport Crossover, in hopes that the model this time around makes a bolder, louder statement in its segment.
The latest ASX aims to do this through upgraded exterior and interior touches while retaining its proven power plant and transmission units.
And with such like- minded competition — specifically the Subaru XV and Honda HR-V — it’s about time the ASX shouts louder ( albeit still carrying the samesized stick).
What should immediately catch the attention upon seeing the 2017 ASX are the new front fascia design billed as Dynamic Shield Concept, which is intended to evoke power and protection. For the car’s two available variants, the GLS and GSR, the refreshed exterior includes the wheel arc molding, new 18-inch, two- tone alloy wheels, and a fin- type roof antenna. And, as before, the GSR variant flaunts a panoramic glass roof with LED illumination, as well as HID head lamps with retractable head lamp washers.
Inside the 2017 ASX, the sporty all- black dashboard and three- spoke, leather- wrapped steering wheel greet drivers and passengers. Driving information and entertainment are all easily accessible with the white- lit, high- contrast meters, LCD- type multi- information display, a 6.75- inch advanced multimedia entertainment system, and dial- type automatic climate control system. The magnesium alloy paddle MAXDA CX-5 shifters also make it easier to harness more efficiently the six- speed CVT transmission. The GLS variant’s seat is made of black high- grade fabric seats with red stitching, while the GSR variant shows off black leather seats with red stitching. The GSR variant also features sporty aluminum pedals.
What the Dynamic Shield Concept attempts to put is a bold face to the all-aluminum 2.0-liter 4B11 engine that, with the help of MIVEC, or the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve- timing Electronic Control unit, allows it to churn out 148hp at 6,000rpm and 197Nm of torque at 4,200rpm.
As for the vehicle’s protection aspect, the 2017 ASX is equipped with dual- stage SRS air bags for driver and passenger, brakes with ABS and EBD, and three- point ELR seat belts with pre- tensioners.
With the ASX GLS going for P1.195 million, and the ASX GSR selling at P1.295 million, would the fresh upgrades bring the ASX up to speed with the competition? We’ll see if the local market heeds its bolder call.