180228 mitsubishi asx 01
180228 mitsubishi asx 02
180228 mitsubishi asx 05
180228 mitsubishi asx 07
180228 mitsubishi asx 08
Matt Brogan16 Mar 2018
REVIEW

Mitsubishi ASX 2018 Review

Mitsubishi’s strong-selling ASX remains great value, but is it showing its age among its peers?
Model Tested
Mitsubishi ASX XLS (2WD)
Review Type
Quick Spin
What’s it all about?

The Mitsubishi ASX – shorthand for Active Sports Crossover – is fundamentally unchanged since its launch back in 2010.

A nip and tuck in 2017 saw the Outlander-based small SUV gain a fresh look, updated infotainment technology, and a handful of electronic driver assistance aids.

Under the bonnet though, it’s business as usual, with the choice of 2.0-litre petrol or 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engines. The six-variant ASX range also comes in two or all-wheel drive formats – with the choice of five-speed manual, six-speed automatic or continuously variable transmissions, depending on configuration.

<a href="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_01.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-csn-inline-image wp-image-238567" src="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_01.jpg?height=427&width=640&aspect=fitWithin" alt="" width="640" height="427"></a>
How much will it cost?

For this review, we drove the high-grade ASX XLS petrol. It’s sold only as two-wheel drive and with the 110kW/197Nm 2.0-litre petrol engine retails from $32,000 (plus on-road costs). That’s $5500 cheaper than the range-topping diesel-powered XLS AWD but $7000 more than the entry-grade LS petrol.

For the money you get 18-inch alloy wheels (with space-saver spare), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, auto high-beam, auto wipers, Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming, digital radio, forward-collision alert, keyless entry and ignition, lane-departure warning, a panoramic glass roof, and a handy reversing camera with ultrasonic sensors.

Also adding value is a five-year/100,000km warranty that includes 12 months’ roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 12 months/15,000km as part of a three-year/45,000km capped-price servicing program. Each service costs $240.

<a href="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_10.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-csn-inline-image wp-image-238573" src="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_10.jpg?height=427&width=640&aspect=fitWithin" alt="" width="640" height="427"></a>
Why should/shouldn’t I buy it?

The Mitsubishi ASX ticks a lot of boxes where practicality and value are concerned. The equipment list is generous and covers most of the big-ticket items that buyers in this segment demand; making up somewhat for the dated design and below-average material and assembly quality in the cabin.

Compared to its rivals, the ASX is also a bit gutless when tackling hills, especially with three or four adults on board. Both the engine and CVT struggle to keep pace in demanding terrain, and it’s worse on longer trips when intrusive road noise and poorly sculpted seats can really take their toll. Although spacious, the heated and electrically-adjustable leather-faced driver’s seat cushion is flat and lacks support.

The primary controls are otherwise relatively straightforward and the instrument panel concise. However, some of the menu settings in the 7.0-inch touchscreen are fiddly to use when the ASX is in motion.

<a href="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_11.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-csn-inline-image wp-image-238574" src="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_11.jpg?height=427&width=640&aspect=fitWithin" alt="" width="640" height="427"></a>
When is it available in Australia?

The ASX range has been available locally since October 2010, in various guises, in which time it’s been the subject of an extensive recall program.

The ASX includes the usual mandated electronic chassis controls, along with seven airbags, and three-point seatbelts in all five seating positions. Top-tether and ISOFIX child-seat anchorages are both fitted as standard, along with ‘child proof’ rear door locks. It received a five-star ANCAP safety rating when last tested in 2014.

<a href="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_13.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-csn-inline-image wp-image-238576" src="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_13.jpg?height=427&width=640&aspect=fitWithin" alt="" width="640" height="427"></a>
Who will it appeal to?

Part of the charm of the ASX is that it appeals to a wide cross-section of buyers: first-car buyers, empty-nesters, couples, younger families, and sales reps needing the extra versatility and practicality of a small SUV.

All-wheel drive versions deliver up to 205mm ground clearance, extending ASX’s appeal to recreational buyers seeking to go further off the beaten track than many small SUVs will allow. It can also tow up to 1300kg – ideal for jet skiers or pop-up camper trailer owners.

The squared-off cabin of the ASX provides good entry and exit options, while also providing plenty of headroom in both the first and second rows. It has 393 litres of cargo space (to window height) with the rear seats in place, expanding to 1143 litres with the 60:40 split-fold rear bench flipped flat.

<a href="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_09.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-csn-inline-image wp-image-238572" src="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_09.jpg?height=427&width=640&aspect=fitWithin" alt="" width="640" height="427"></a>
Where does it fit?

The ASX competes with up to 27 other models in the sub-$40,000, small SUV segment. Close rivals include the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-3 and Subaru XV, but it also faces still competition from the Holden Trax, Suzuki Vitara and Toyota C-HR.

The ASX is also a high-riding alternative to any number of small-segment hatch models such as the Hyundai i30, Mazda 3 and Toyota Corolla.

Thanks partly to its popularity among fleet and rental buyers, the ASX finished top of its segment in 2017 with 19,403 local sales. That’s more than newer rivals like the Jeep Renegade (17,490), Nissan QASHQAI (13,495), and Honda HR-V (11,843).

<a href="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_18.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-csn-inline-image wp-image-238578" src="https://motoring.pxcrush.net/motoring/general/editorial/180228_mitsubishi_asx_18.jpg?height=427&width=640&aspect=fitWithin" alt="" width="640" height="427"></a>
So, what do we think?

The Mitsubishi ASX doesn’t get the pulse racing, and its size makes it better for inner-urban use than open road touring. Because fuel economy can suffer if the engine is required to work too hard, it’s also better suited to terrain where engine performance is less of an issue.

Safety-conscious buyers will also lament the ASX’s lack of autonomous emergency braking.

But if practicality and price are important, this popular but aging small SUV continues to make a lot of sense.

2018 Mitsubishi ASX XLS (2WD) pricing and specifications:
Price: $32,000 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol
Output: 110kW/197Nm
Transmission: Continuously variable
Fuel: 7.6L/100km (ADR Combined) | 10.2L/100km (as tested)
CO2: 176g/km (ADR Combined)
Safe Rating: Five-star ANCAP (2014)

Share this article
Written byMatt Brogan
See all articles
Our team of independent expert car reviewers and journalistsMeet the team
Expert rating
65/100
Engine, Drivetrain & Chassis
11/20
Price, Packaging & Practicality
15/20
Safety & Technology
14/20
Behind The Wheel
14/20
X-Factor
11/20
Pros
  • Flexible, pragmatic interior
  • Well-specified equipment list
  • Goldilocks size for inner-urban use
Cons
  • Outdated material and build quality
  • Drivetrain really lacks verve
  • NVH and wind noise
Stay up to dateBecome a carsales member and get the latest news, reviews and advice straight to your inbox.
Looking for a family car?Get the latest advice and reviews on family car that's right for you.
Explore the Family Hub
Family
Disclaimer
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.

If the price does not contain the notation that it is "Drive Away", the price may not include additional costs, such as stamp duty and other government charges.
Download the carsales app
    AppStoreDownloadGooglePlayDownload
    App Store and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.
    © CAR Group Ltd 1999-2024
    In the spirit of reconciliation we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.