Mitsubishi ASX

MANILA, Philippines - From its “Jet Fighter” grille to its sharp and expressive stance, it’s clear that the ASX is another great-looking vehicle from Mitsubishi. Yet, its beauty is more than skin deep. Developed from Mitsubishi’s global mid-sized platform, the ASX blends the Lancer EX’s dynamic attitude with the Outlander’s commanding driving position and uncompromising comfort. The cabin gives a clear-cut sense of sportiness and yet, it’s generously equipped with features usually found in high-end luxury cars. Thanks to its generous wheelbase, it provides a truly comfortable space for all five occupants.

The ASX has a single engine: the 2.0-liter MIVEC which delivers excellent performance; and mated to either a manual or CVT transmission (depending on the variant), it returns commendable fuel mileage as well. Available with Mitsubishi’s clever All-Wheel Control (AWC) all-wheel drive system, the ASX is sure to deliver a full-fledged driving experience whatever the weather.

The Mitsubishi ASX defies conventional description because it’s sporty yet filled with substance; dynamic yet comfortable; powerful yet fuel-efficient. In other words, it’s the best of all worlds. It’s this segment-busting ability that makes the ASX our Wheels Monthly pick of the month.

A look at the fact sheet alone says it all: this car’s a winner. Who can’t resist blending the Lancer EX’s sharp and responsive character with the Outlander’s excellent visibility and comfort? And then, you just have to look at it: seriously sharp and sporty, clearly like nothing else on the road. I’ve driven one on the Clark Speedway and have come out impressed by its surprising agility; this car has moves to match its looks! I’m equally impressed by the spaciousness of the ASX as well as its level of features. Undoubtedly, this is one car I wouldn’t mind driving again and again! – Ulysses Ang

It’s hard not to like Mitsubishi’s new ASX crossover. I love the aggressive Lancer front end – the ASX obviously being based on the platform of Mitsubishi’s popular compact sedan. The side view is sporty enough, with the seemingly de rigueur sharply slanted character line very prominent. The rear is yet another strong aesthetic aspect. Google the image of BMW’s new X1 crossover and marvel at how remarkably similar its rear end (especially the taillamps) is to Mitsu’s new ASX. Hmm…

Overall build quality is right up there with the Hondas and Toyotas. It’s reasonably fun-to-drive, too, thanks to a MIVEC-equipped 2.0-liter engine mated to either a 5-speed stick or a CVT manumatic with paddle shifters. It’s compact-sized but the tall crossover architecture allows it to have generous head- and legroom. There’s even a decently sized cargo area at the back that can be greatly enlarged by folding the split-folding rear seats.

The price isn’t so bad, too, despite the higher duties from the ASX’s made-in-Japan status: P1,145,000 for the entry-level stickshift model, P1,225,000 for the mid-range CVT variant, and P1,498,000 for the top-of-the-line model. – Manny N. De Los Reyes

There has never been a better time to be a car consumer in this country. And the ASX is mechanical proof of that. Can’t decide between a CUV and a sedan? The Mitsubishi ASX’s chunky styling ensures that it keeps its respect on the road, but the smaller dimensions give it better fuel economy than traditional CUVs. For the young family types with an active lifestyle, it is quite literally the best of both worlds. – James Deakin

The Mitsubishi ASX is a driver’s crossover. I’d like to think of it as a Lancer EX with a backpack! – Andy Leuterio

Talk about stamping class via familial resemblance! The Mitsubishi ASX looks like a Lancer EX on steroids – and that is a mighty good thing. Add to these arresting looks the ability to conform its interior dimensions to varying needs of the sporty and athletic set plus Mitsubishi’s tried and tested MIVEC-equipped 2.0-liter engine and you have a recipe for a winner. After its public debut at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show, it is now the buzz amongst car enthusiasts. We’re looking at another winner here from Mitsubishi. – Dong Magsajo