The 2020 Mitsubishi ASX is not far from our shores, and the new makeover has done the car’s looks a real favour. Sharper and more modern, the brand new ASX keeps track with the sleek styling found on the other current Mitsubishi models that are on sale.
Boasting full LED lighting and a more aggressive nose, the ASX looks good in my book. The new chrome striping and the new car’s angular head lighting at the front adds a load more glamour to what was arguably a rather dull predecessor’s face. What we have now is a stylish alternative in the medium-compact SUV segment, where the ASX squares-up against rivals like the Mazda CX-3, Toyota C-HR and the Subaru XV. The 2020 Mitsubishi ASX’s good looks, comfort and technology levels are where its real weapons lie.
Slip inside the new ASX cabin and you’ll note that this car has all the latest infotainment technology aboard, so we now have a new 8-inch smartphone-talkative infotainment system awash with features like Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto to play with. Some of the more up-market ASX models also get built-in satellite navigation as well as leather trim, though fabric upholstery and piano black detailing are the standard course for base models. Niceties like a panoramic roof, heated front seats, cruise control and climate control are items for the top of the range only.
Mitsubishi says it’s preparing an app for use with the 2020 Mitsubishi ASX that will allow the owner to view information like existing fuel level, as well as speed and odometer info and warning lights. If your fuel level is low, the app will help you by locating the nearest petrol station for you to go and fill up. The app will also help the car’s owner to stay on top of servicing intervals.
The nice thing about the Mitsubishi ASX is that if you don’t need AWD then you do have the option of purchasing a new ASX with FWD only. I can understand the benefits of the FWD models in that it is cheaper to buy but also a little cheaper when it comes to running costs. For those of us who need AWD traction – I mean who doesn’t enjoy a gallop across a muddy field, a stroll down the beach access track or a run up the ski slope every now and then – AWD models get a push button electronic AWD system which is easy-to-use and ruggedly good for light off-roading duties. – typical of AWD Mitsubishi products.
Mitsubishi have developed a very good range of AWD systems for their vehicles. A lot of the AWD development has gone on in races like the Dakar Ralley with their Pajero and the WRCC racing with their EVO Lancer. You can’t beat race proven technology. The combination of 4WD and CVT automatic gearbox makes the 2020 Mitsubishi ASX AWD a great companion for those who like to go places less travelled.
Under the hood of the 2020 ASX base models is a new version of the Mitsubishi 2.0-litre MIVEC petrol engine that produces 112 kW of power and 197 Nm of torque, with power going to either the front wheels or all wheels via a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic. CVT models also get paddle shifters which allow you to move between 6 virtual ratios. The CVT and paddle shifters are fun to use and make the drive a bit more engaging for the driver, though the reality is that there is no gear changing happening at all.
Performance in the 2.0-litre models won’t set the pulse rating but there is flexibility and enough oomph to get to 100 km/h from a standstill in around 10 seconds for the FWD models and 12 seconds for the AWD versions. Ok, yes, that’s not that quick at all but when you’re underway it feels punchy enough for the new Mitsubishi ASX medium-size crossover to perform most modern-day tasks. Though unlikely to be something worth crowing about nor unlikely will it be for many ASX owners to even bother about, but the 2.0-litre ASX will get up to 190 km/h if given the chance.
Sportier Mitsubishi ASX Exceed models will offer the gruntier 2.4-litre petrol engine that develops 124 kW of power at 6000 rpm, and 220 Nm of torque at 4200rpm. The 2.4-litre Mitsubishi ASX is offered with the CVT transmission only, while the 2.0-litre continues with both five-speed manual and optional CVT.
If you’re doing a bit of travelling on secondary roads, then the Mitsubishi ASX is perfect for this sort of driving. The 2020 Mitsubishi ASX has good ground clearance (190 mm) and a decent ride. The car is relatively quiet and the cabin nice to ride in with good seat comfort. Boot space is enough to swallow plenty of cargo, making it the best in class for luggage-carrying duties.
Safety has also been given a bit of an upgrade too with keyless entry, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert available on a wider range of the ASX models. Driver aids like AEB and rear cross-traffic alert are on all but its base-model variant. The new ASX models weigh in at around 1400 kg, the AWD version being a bit heavier than the FWD model. You do get a nice commanding view of the road ahead, and the car tracks nice and securely.
Despite the ASX being around for quite some time, the ASX is Australia’s most popular small SUV. Reinforcing its important position within the Mitsubishi range, the new Mitsubishi ASX compact crossover has been extensively revised for 2020. The keys to the popularity of this car are price, interior space and size. The base model Mitsubishi ASX costs less than the majority of its competitors, where only the entry-level CX-3 and Ford’s Eco Sport can be bought for less.
The 2020 Mitsubishi ASX models includes the:
For any more information on the 2020 Mitsubishi ASX or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Mitsubishi dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!