PIMS New Cars 2010 Mitsubishi Motors

DESIGN OVERVIEW

Mitsubishi Motors extends the concept one notch higher for the C-segment with the introduction of a smaller and sportier sibling of the Outlander, the all-new ASX or Active Sport Cross-over.  This all-new Compact Cross-over Utility Vehicle (CUV) represents a marketable interpretation of the Concept-cX model car, initially unveiled in the 2007 Frankfurt Motorshow. 

As another global model for Mitsubishi Motors, the all-new ASX rides the Global Mid-sized Platform similar with the Lancer EX and the Outlander. 

Going by the “Just the Right Size” design concept, the ASX maximizes the best characteristics of both SUV and a conventional car, giving the all-new ASX with the following important attributes:

Very easy and good handling

Soft and comfortable riding experience

Responsive speed and acceleration, whatever the road condition is

Sufficient interior space for a combination of adult passengers and cargoes

And better driver visibility due to elevated driving perspective, among others

This “car-like concept” of the ASX was a key design direction of MMC as it freed themselves of the pressure of designing this vehicle with all the trademarks of an SUV.  Thus, the ASX design is removed with all the heavy detailing usually found in normal SUVs and just focused on its sharp, expressive, and finely executed “sports hatch” design with proper substance and charisma.

PRODUCT FEATURES

Now, allow me to explain to you the features of the all-new ASX, starting with its powertrain and other technical components.

The all-new ASX features the same 2.0-liter 4 In-Line DOHC MIVEC 4B11 Gasoline engine as the Lancer EX.  This 4B11 engine produces a maximum power of 150 Ps / 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 197 N-m / 4,200 rpm while being mated to either INVECS-III Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with 6-Speed Sportronic Mode or a 5-Speed Manual Transmission.  The basic combination of these two components assures a much better fuel economy coupled with a very low emission level.  As standard equipment, the magnesium alloy paddle shifters are equipped in the GLS SE and GLS CVT models.

Its suspension system is composed of a MacPherson strut coil spring with stabilizer on the front and a multi-link coil spring with stabilizer on the rear.  Damping action has been refined further giving a tight reassuring feeling when pushed hard into corners but balanced enough to soak up the potholes.  Thus its chassis assures a much improved and balanced riding comfort, even when driving alone or at full capacity.

The electronic power assisted rack and pinion steering mechanism is a first-time technology for Mitsubishi Motors and this provides a very light feeling when handling the steering wheel, even when turning to its tightest 5.3 meter-turning radius.

Also, another first in the line of automotive technology of Mitsubishi Motors is the introduction of an Engine Push Start System, for the CVT variants.  This new feature enables the driver to easily start and stop the engine through the push of a button.

The all-new ASX will be available in eight colors: Sapporo Silver, Quartz Brown Metallic, Vector Blue Mica, Amazon Red, Virgil Gray, Biscuit White, Carbon Black, and its flagship color, Kingfisher Blue.

This new model is positioned to compete with the likes of Kia Soul and other crossover-type vehicles sprouting from other European and American brands.  But with better styling, highly-competitive pricing position, and remarkable reputation it currently receives, the all-new ASX will prove to be one of the leading models of the Mitsubishi Motors brand in this more ecological and practical world.