A fresh look and the addition of a more powerful drive train will come as welcome news for potential buyers in 2020, as Mitsubishi Motors Australia launches the new ‘life’ packed ASX, announcing the return of a GSR-spec at the same time.
Considered the small SUV of choice thanks to some strong sales figures over the last 12 months, the updated ASX, will be marketed on the back of a ‘built to pack life in’ marketing campaign.
The 2020 model introduces a number of upgrades to exterior and interior styling, and overall functionality, including the Dynamic Shield front end design, adding black and chrome finishes to the new-shape front bumper and grille.
Available with 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre engines, coupled to a CVT gearbox, the new model will retain the MacPherson front struts and a multi-link rear arrangement, which have been further optimised for comfort – even on rough roads.
The ASX Exceed and the new GSR model will benefit from the larger power plant, which will offer 123kW of power and 222Nm of torque, compared with the smaller engine, which delivers 110kW and 197Nm in the other variants.
For handling and safety, active stability control (ASC) is standard across the range, with all spec levels also enjoying forward collision mitigation (FCM). An electro-chromatic rear view mirror is now also standard.
The FCM system detects obstructions ahead and issues a visual and audible alert when there is a danger of a collision, automatically applying the brakes to either avoid a collision or reduce the impact.
ES customers can order the ADAS package for $2500 extra, with additional features, including lane departure warning, auto high beam, reverse sensors, blind spot warning, lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert included.
The ASX also features a comprehensive passive safety architecture based on the Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) impact safety body and seven SRS airbags.
It also has an emergency stop signal system, which automatically flashes the hazard lights to warn the driver behind when sudden braking is detected at a speed above 55km/h.
A new 8.0-inch smartphone display system, increased from the previous seven inch version, connects to a new infotainment system that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with DAB radio.
In addition, the Exceed model also gains a Rockford premium audio system and TomTom navigation. The ASX also retains its versatile cargo area, which means you can bring everything you need, even with five occupants inside.
The wide tailgate opening and low cargo floor should make life easier, and make loading and unloading fuss free.
Additional styling, available in the GSR model, includes black cloth headlining, micro-suede and leather look seats with red stitching, and the addition of a sports rear spoiler. The Exceed model has leather seats.
The 2020 Mitsubishi ASX ES, LS and Exceed are available in Australia now, while the MR and GSR variants will arrive in showrooms in December.
The base-model ES variant is available as a 5-speed manual or CVT, with prices starting at $24,990 and $26,740 respectively. The LS is priced at $30,240, while the Exceed can be yours for $35,740. All prices are plus on-roads.
Pricing for the MR and GSR variants will be confirmed at launch.
