Mitsubishi's All-new ASX Arrives in Australia

Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) hasvariable geometry turbocharger to provide high
announced the arrival of its all-new compact vehicle,acceleration response and optimum boost pressure
the ASX, or Active Smart Crossover. Available inacross the engine speed range to deliver dynamic
either two- or all-wheel drive configurations, the ASXperformance and low emissions.
is a milestone vehicle for Mitsubishi, introducing theThe 1.8-litre DiD engine is offered on both the ASX
company’s first-ever diesel engined passenger4WD and ASX Aspire models and is only available
vehicle to the Australian market.mated to a smooth and direct shifting six-speed
Launching the vehicle, MMAL’s president andmanual gearbox.
chief executive officer, Masahiko Takahashi, said theIn addition to its new turbodiesel engine, Mitsubishi
company was delighted to add another passengeroffers the ASX with a lively 2.0-litre four-cylinder
vehicle to its range.petrol MIVEC engine. Already a proven force of
"The all-new ASX will provide a logical bridge betweenperformance, refinement and durability currently
our popular Lancer and Outlander line-ups, and ensurefound in the company’s popular Lancer sedan
all our Mitsubishi customers have an even greaterand sportback, the 2.0-litre petrol engine generates
range of vehicles to choose from."110kW of power @ 6000 rpm and 197Nm of torque
"Significantly, the ASX will enable us to compete in@ 4200 rpm.
the new, fast-growing two-wheel drive compact SUVOffered with a choice of either a five-speed manual
market segment, and allow us to attract newgearbox or smooth CVT automatic transmission, the
customers to the Mitsubishi brand," Takahashi said.petrol engine is standard in the ASX 2WD and
As a two-wheel drive, the ASX 2WD will be offeredavailable in both the ASX 4WD and ASX Aspire.
with a lively, fuel-efficient 110kW/197Nm 2.0-litreFor sports performance, the INVECS III Smart Logic
petrol engine that drives the front wheels through aCVT offers six driver selectable virtual ratios with the
choice of either five-speed manual gearbox orASX Aspire featuring steering column mounted
smooth stepless Continuously Variable Transmissionpaddle shifts for even greater control.
(CVT).With its MIVEC variable valve timing system and
The mid range ASX 4WD introduces not onlylightweight advanced technology, the petrol engine is
Mitsubishi's first-ever diesel engine for a passengeralso one of the most efficient in its class returning
car in Australia, but also the most fuel efficient in itsfuel consumption figures of 7.7-litres per 100
class. This has been achieved through the world's firstkilometres (manual) or 7.9-litres per 100 kilometres
application of variable valve timing to a passenger car(CVT) according to ADR 81/01 testing.
diesel engine with the all-new DiD engine featuringDriving dynamics
Mitsubishi's proprietary MIVEC system. With aDespite its compact dimensions, the new Mitsubishi
capacity of 1.8-litres and maximum outputs of 110kWASX shares its wheelbase and about 70 per cent of
of power and 300Nm of torque, the turbodieselits underpinnings with the bigger Outlander to ensure
engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearboxsuperb stability, handling and ride comfort under all
resulting in an official ADR 81/01 fuel consumption ofdriving conditions.
just 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissionsThe front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link
of only 154 grams per kilometre.suspensions have been recalibrated for the smaller
The 2.0-litre petrol engine with CVT and the 1.8-litreand lighter ASX with different spring rates for the coil
diesel engine with six-speed manual transmission aresprings and a slightly smaller 18mm diameter stabiliser
offered as standard on both the ASX 4WD variantbar on the rear.
and the top of the range ASX Aspire.Effective stopping power is provided by 294mm
As the latest vehicle developed from MMC’sventilated disc brakes on the front and 302mm solid
'Project Global' mid-size platform, the ASX blendsdiscs on the rear supported by a mechanical system
Lancer’s passenger car on-road attitude withthat offers extra braking assistance in emergency
Outlander’s commanding driving position and thesituations via a vacuum servo.
convenience of its clever "AWC"Precise and direct steering is provided by electric
electronically-controlled Four-Wheel Drive system onpower assisted steering that offers a light and lively
relevant models.feel and kerb to kerb turning circle of 10.6m, perfect
The design of the Mitsubishi ASX is closely based onfor easy manoeuvring in tight urban situations.
the "Compact Dynamism" styling blueprint of theAs a crossover vehicle, the ASX is available in both
Concept-cX crossover vehicle, that was first seen attwo-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions for
the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007. Widely acclaimedthose who wish to get off the beaten track in
for its smooth profile and sloping curves, the ASXsafety and confidence, with the latter using an
was one of the first vehicles to break away fromoptimized version of Mitsubishi’s acclaimed All
the chunky look typically associated with SUVs.Wheel Control (AWC) electronically controlled
Sporting Mitsubishi’s signature "Jet Fighter" grille,all-wheel drive system. The system offers drivers a
the ASX remains faithful to the original Concept-cXchoice of three modes of operation to provide
styling direction combining the characteristics of bothoptimum traction depending on driver preferences or
SUVs and passenger vehicles into a stylish androad conditions. The three modes are selected via a
versatile city vehicle.large illuminated dial placed for convenient use
The interior appointments of the ASX are designedbetween the front seats.
to complement the sophisticated lines of the exterior.In 2WD mode, all torque is transferred to the front
Quality fabrics and textured materials generate anwheels to help reduce fuel consumption in normal
ambience that suggests "dynamism within simplicity,"on-road driving conditions.
with particular attention paid to the soft trim forThe 4WD Auto mode uses an electronically controlled
areas touched by the occupants.viscous coupling centre differential to distribute
Safety is always a high priority with all Mitsubishitorque to the wheels with the greatest traction.
vehicles, and in the ASX, it reaches new heights.Suitable for wet, slippery or unsealed roads, the
Based on Mitsubishi’s acclaimed RISE (Reinforcedsystem uses sensor data on such things as throttle
Impact Safety Evolution) structure, the ASXopening, vehicle speed, road conditions and driver
combines an extensive array of safety featuresinputs to determine the optimum front/rear torque
fitted standard across the range including ASTCsplit for sure-footed stability under any road
(Active Stability Control with Traction Control), Hillconditions. Continually variable, this torque split ranges
Start Control system, ABS, Electronic Brakein the ratio of 98% front / 2% rear to 50% front /
Distribution, Brake Assist, and seven airbags, including50% rear.
driver and passenger front, side and curtain, andFor particularly difficult terrain or extremely slippery
driver knee airbag.conditions off road, the AWC system also offers a
The three-model lineup of ASX 2WD, ASX 4WD and4WD Lock mode that transfers approximately 1.5
ASX Aspire are all comprehensively equipped fortimes the torque of 4WD AUTO mode to the rear
superb comfort and convenience with the ASX 2WDwheels to improve traction on very poor road
designed to perfectly complement a city lifestyle.surfaces providing powerful 4WD performance in all
Standard features include fully automatic climateconditions.
control air-conditioning with air filter, cruise control,Safety
front and rear electric windows and exterior mirrors,The Mitsubishi ASX safety story starts with a highly
electric tailgate opener, AM/FM radio/CD/MP3 playerrigid and strong body structure that combines
with auxiliary and USB inputs, variable intermittentMitsubishi's proprietary Reinforced Impact Safety
windscreen wipers, tilt and telescopic steering columnEvolution (RISE) system. RISE integrates and
adjustment and 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch on theinterconnects structural elements to provide active
Aspire).protection of the passengers during an accident. This
A Convenience Pack combining Bluetooth 2.0design brings dramatic advances in multi-directional
handsfree phone connectivity with steering wheelimpact safety performance, dispersing energy loads
mounted controls, steering wheel mounted audioduring front, side and rear crashes and controlling
controls, chrome muffler tip and rear parking sensorsdistortion.
is optionally available on all two-wheel drive variants.In order to create a highly rigid and strong yet light
For those who wish to venture off the beaten track,passenger cell, the Mitsubishi ASX employs a
the four-wheel drive ASX is the vehicle of choice. Insignificant proportion of high-tensile steel with
addition to the Mitsubishi AWD electronically controlledcarefully considered structural reinforcements and
four-wheel drive system, the ASX 4WD models alsocrush zones to ensure the optimum safety of
gain front fog lamps, Bluetooth 2.0 handsfree phoneoccupants.
connectivity with steering wheel mounted controls,Compatibility with other road users has also been a
steering wheel mounted audio controls, and rearstrong consideration in the development of the body
parking sensors.structure and given that weight is an important
The top of the line all-wheel drive ASX Aspirefactor in determining the severity of damage and
combines all the safety, versatility, and comfortinjuries in a crash with other vehicles, Mitsubishi has
features of the ASX 4WD and adds a number ofstriven to reduce the weight of the ASX in a number
luxury features that are rarely found in this class ofof areas.
vehicle. These include leather seats with seat heatingWith a kerb weight ranging from 1345kg to 1525kg
for driver and front passenger, power driver's seat,depending on the model, Mitsubishi has made
keyless operating system with a one-touch start, rainsignificant weight reduction gains by using reduced
sensing automatic windscreen wipers and duskthickness sheet metal, strong deformable plastic for
sensing automatic lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, privacythe front wings and weight saving materials for
glass, and chrome accents for the radiator grille andinterior components.
belt line moulding.Pedestrian safety has also been considered with the
The ASX Aspire also features a premium RockfordASX incorporating such features as a bonnet design
Fosgate audio system with nine speakers and thewith a double bulge to create a crushable zone and
Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (MMCS), whichenergy absorbing front bumper to help mitigate
includes satellite navigation, DVD with video input,potential leg injuries.
Bluetooth 1.0 handsfree phone connectivity withTo complement the design and structural safety
steering wheel mounted controls, iPod integration andelements, the ASX is offered with a high level of
control, and reversing camera. The MMCS also allowsstandard safety features including Active Stability
you to customise a number of vehicle functions,Control, Active Traction Control, Hill Start Assist
including wiper control, auto unlock functions andsystem, ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake
climate control.Assist, Emergency Stop signal System, and seven
Masahiko Takahashi is very optimistic about theairbags (dual front, front side, side curtain and driver
prospects for the ASX in the Australian market. "Thekneebag).
design blueprint for the original Concept-cX was toFurther passive safety features include a head
combine the best attributes of both passengerrestraint design to help reduce potential whiplash
vehicles and SUVs, and the Mitsubishi designers haveinjuries and a brake pedal push-prevention system
nailed it.that prevents protrusion of the brake pedal in a
"And our customers agree. The ASX has receivedhigh-speed impact to reduce injuries to the
terrific reviews from both Japanese and Europeandriver’s legs.
media, and the initial sales response has beenPackaging, comfort and convenience
fantastic.As a compact vehicle designed to bridge the market
"This is a great vehicle – good looking, versatile,between the Lancer hatch and Outlander SUV, the
with the availability of a fantastic new diesel engine -ASX offers all the benefits of passenger car
and the all-wheel drive variants give you theeconomy, comfort and driving dynamics with the
opportunity to really get up and go," Takahashi said.flexible and spacious interior of an SUV.
Mitsubishi provides its industry leading warranty on allWith its long wheelbase, the ASX provides seating
ASX vehicles, including a comprehensive five yearfor five occupants in comfortable and supportive
130,000 km whole vehicle warranty, backed up by itsquality cloth trimmed (leather trim for Aspire models)
10 year/160,000 km powertrain warranty and a fiveseats. In order to attain the perfect driving position,
year/130,000 kilometre roadside assistance package.the driver's seat offers slide, recline and height
Mitsubishi’s all-new ASX Pricingadjustment (power operated for Aspire models)
Recommended Manufacturer List Price (excludingwhile the steering column is adjustable for both rake
statutory and dealer costs)and reach.
- ASX 2WD 2.0-litre petrol 5-speed manual: $25,990To accommodate a broad range of passengers, the
- ASX 2WD 2.0-litre petrol CVT automatic: $28,490reclining angle of the rear seat back can also be
- ASX4WD 1.8-litre turbodiesel 6-speed manual:adjusted and is split 60/40 to enable a versatile
$31,990space for luggage and passengers. With the rear seat
- ASX 4WD 2.0-litre petrol CVT automatic: $31,990back in place, the well finished luggage space
- ASX Aspire 1.8-litre turbodiesel 6-speed manual:complete with tie-down hooks offers a generous
$36,990capacity of 416 litres which can be further expanded
- ASX Aspire 2.0-litre petrol CVT automatic: $36,990to 1193 litres with the rear seat back folded flat.
Mitsubishi’s all-new ASX – design, safety andIf only two passengers are occupying the rear seat,
engineering excellencethere is a fold down centre armrest with integrated
At A Glancecupholders and a ski-hatch through to the rear
- Stylish compact crossover based on Concept-cXluggage space to accommodate longer narrow items.
designFurther storage is provided by a front passenger
- Two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive offered inseat back pocket, front door bins with large bottle
three model lineupholders, a centre console and an illuminated glovebox.
- Mitsubishi's first ever turbodiesel passenger car forWith large glass areas, the ASX offers a light and airy
Australiaambience but for Aspire models, this can be
- High-tech, innovative 1.8-litre turbodiesel engine isincreased even further with the optional glass
the most fuel efficient in class and the world's firstpanoramic roof. Measuring 954mm x 860mm, the UV
passenger car diesel to use variable valve timingtreated laminated glass roof comes standard with a
- Powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine with manual and CVTpower-operated sunshade and amber LED ambient
transmission optionslighting that can be set to three levels of brightness
- Extensive standard safety equipment includingas well as simply on or off.
seven airbags, ABS and ASTCIn order to ensure the optimum temperature and
- Long wheelbase and fully independent suspensiontraveling environment inside the cabin, all ASX models
provide superb driving dynamicsare fitted standard with climate control air
Designconditioning with rear seat ducts and a pollen filter,
The stylish ASX exterior design is based on theand tinted side and rear glass.
theme introduced with the Concept cX that wasStandard convenience features across the range
unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show in 2007 andinclude cruise control with steering wheel mounted
melds a passenger car-like sure-footed stance withswitches, front and rear power windows with auto
the commanding driving position of a compact SUV.up and down for the driver, power adjustable and
Although sharing its long 2670mm wheelbase with thefolding external door mirrors, remote central locking,
larger Outlander SUV, the ASX is designed to bridgevariable intermittent windscreen wipers and
the gap between the Lancer hatch and Outlanderintermittent rear washer/wiper and trip computer.
SUV to appeal to an urban buyer who desires aAn optional Convenience Pack combining Bluetooth
city-friendly vehicle with the flexible packaging2.0 handsfree phone connectivity with steering wheel
advantages of an SUV.mounted controls and voice control, steering wheel
With its short overhangs, broad stance, strongmounted audio controls, chrome muffler tip and rear
character lines and aerodynamic wedge shape, theparking sensors is also available on all two-wheel drive
ASX eschews the traditional boxy SUV design invariants. These features along with front fog lights
favour of Mitsubishi's "compact dynamism" designare standard on ASX 4WD models.
theme that suggests a car in motion even whenFor entertainment, the ASX 2WD and ASX 4WD
standing still.offer a quality 4-speaker AM/FM radio/CD/MP3 audio
At the front, its distinctive trademark "Jet Fighter"system with both auxiliary and USB inputs. The USB
grille dominates, providing an imposing presence oninput offers a simple plug and play feature with the
the road with the sculpted bonnet and slightly bulgingaudio system automatically recognising personal music
yet well integrated wheel arches suggesting a solidplayers or flash drives and enabling full control via the
and athletic vehicle.audio system controls or steering wheel mounted
Sweeping rearwards, the gently arched roofline andbuttons where fitted.
sharp waistline continue the sporty silhouette whileAs the top of the range model, the ASX Aspire
producing an enhanced aerodynamic performance: thefeatures a very high level of specification and gains
ASX offers a Cd of just .32. With its rear roofseat heating for driver and front passenger, keyless
spoiler, slimline slanted combination rear lamps andoperating system with a one-touch start, rain sensing
wide trapezoidal license plate recess, the rear viewautomatic windscreen wipers and dusk sensing
further accentuates the car's low, wide muscularautomatic lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass,
visual appeal.and chrome accents for the radiator grille and belt line
Complementing the car's sporty aesthetic, the ASX ismoulding on top of the ASX 4WD specification.
available in a range of seven exterior colours includingASX Aspire models also feature the Mitsubishi
the new signature Kingfisher Blue. Other solid, metallicMulti-Communication System (MMCS) that integrates
and pearl finishes available include White, Cool Silver,audio, on-board navigation and other communication
Black Mica, Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl and Titanium.systems. The system uses a 40GB hard disk drive
Inside, the concept of sharp, clear, sporty eleganceand 7-inch LCD display with touch-panel operation
continues with an emphasis on form, trim andwith 15GB available for hard drive music storage.
materials. Consistent with the exterior, theIn addition to displaying navigation information, the
ASX’s cabin reflects a sense of "dynamic quality"screen doubles as a rear view camera with fixed
expressed through the use of different texturedguidelines that automatically comes on when the
materials and carefully applied matt finish silverengine is turned on and the gear lever is shifted into
accents.reverse.
Although the interior colour scheme is based on aFor superb sound reproduction, the MMCS is
black monotone, contrasting use of textures andintegrated with a Rockford Fosgate audio system
materials such as the soft trim areas that feature athat combines a CD/DVD drive that supports WMA
new type of two-tone textured padding withand MP3 formats, 710W power amplifier and nine
contrastive undulations, provide a smart, sporty feel.speakers including a 25cm subwoofer with digital
The same approach prevailed for the seat upholsterysound processing and vehicle speed quality
where Mitsubishi and its textile partners created newcompensation to produce the finest sounds on the
embossed woven materials to add to the overallmove.
sense of sporty dynamic quality.For further information, contact:
PowertrainLenore Fletcher, Head of Corporate Communications
The ASX introduces Mitsubishi's first-ever turbo dieselTelephone: (08) 8275 2348
passenger car engine to the Australian market thatE-mail: au
combines compact design, lightweight materials andCaitlin Beale, Manager of Corporate Communications
innovative technology to make it the most fuelTelephone: (08) 8275 7250
efficient in its class.E-mail: au
With a capacity of 1.8-litres, the all-aluminium DOHC--ABOUT MITSUBISHI--
16-valve four cylinder common rail direct injectionMitsubishi Motors Australia is part of the global
turbo diesel engine produces a maximum power ofMitsubishi Motors organisation and is fully owned by
110kW @ 4000rpm and peak torque of 300Nm @Mitsubishi, one of the world's largest companies.
2000rpm while still returning an official ADR 81/01The company's history dates back to 1870, when
combined fuel consumption of just 5.9 litres perMitsubishi's Japanese founder, Yataro Iwasaki, started
100km.a shipping company with three steamships. The
In order to achieve such low fuel consumption,company grew from strength to strength and, in
Mitsubishi has combined a world first application of its1914, registered the Mitsubishi three-diamond
MIVEC variable valve timing system in a passengertrademark. This symbol embodies more than 130
car diesel engine enabling it to use a record lowyears of tradition, and has earned the confidence and
compression ratio of 14.9:1. A low compression ratiotrust of customers all over the world.
ensures the engine delivers excellent NVH, smoothMitsubishi takes great pride from knowing that more
operation, high performance and low emissions, inthan 11 million people from around the world have
particular NoX emissions.chosen to drive a Mitsubishi vehicle. There are
Mitsubishi's MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timingMitsubishi dealers in more than 200 sites across
Electronic Control) system is already widely in use onAustralia. These professional and knowledgeable
its petrol engines and on the new 1.8-litre "4N13"dealers help owners ensure their Mitsubishi car is
turbo diesel engine operates on the intake valve train.always looked after by fully-trained Mitsubishi
By carefully controlling all of the fuel injection andtechnicians, using genuine Mitsubishi parts that meet
airflow parameters through the MIVEC system,stringent global standards.
Mitsubishi is able to achieve satisfactory cold startsRESOURCE: Mitsubishi works hard to develop new
and combustion stability with a particularly lowcars and technology, as well as ground-breaking
compression ratio.safety systems that challenge convention. If you
Further efficiencies in the engine were attainedwould like to know more about new Mitsubishi cars,
through the use of a 2000 bar common rail systemenvironmental cars, electric cars and the i-Miev take a
for higher output and lower CO2 emissions and alook at the Mitsubishi website.