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HomeCarsThe Japanese compact SUV reinvents itself

The Japanese compact SUV reinvents itself

Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi is renewing its ASX compact SUV for 2024. This model, now produced in Spain, offers a range of varied engines and cutting-edge technological equipment. A dive into the heart of this new generation that intends to make a place for itself on the French urban SUV market.

A distinctive exterior design

The 2024 Mitsubishi ASX sports a new, more assertive style, moving away from its cousin the Renault Captur. The Japanese manufacturer has focused on its own visual identity, particularly in the front bumper. The brand's characteristic “Dynamic Shield” grille stands out, framed by slender LED headlights that give it a piercing look. The more angular body lines reinforce its urban adventurer look.

The general silhouette nevertheless remains faithful to the codes of the segment, with a compact size (4.23 m long) and balanced proportions. At the rear, we find boomerang-shaped lights, the now emblematic light signature of the model.

A spacious and modular interior

The interior of the new ASX is all about space and modularity. Despite its compact dimensions, this SUV offers an excellent level of habitability for four adults. The 16 cm sliding rear bench seat allows you to adapt the space to the needs of the moment, prioritizing either passengers or cargo.

The trunk volume thus varies from 422 to 536 liters depending on the configuration, a remarkable figure for the category. The hybrid versions, however, see this capacity reduced to 305 liters, battery required. Numerous storage spaces are scattered around the cabin, offering more than 22 liters of additional storage.

State-of-the-art on-board technology

Mitsubishi has significantly upgraded the technological equipment level of the 2024 ASX. The central touchscreen has been increased to 10.4 inches, offering better readability and optimized ergonomics. The multimedia system now includes Google built-in, providing access to services such as Google Maps or the Google Assistant via the voice command “Hey Google”.

A 69 cm wide panoramic sunroof makes its appearance, bathing the cabin in natural light. Three intermediate opening positions are available, for optimal comfort in all circumstances.

A range of electrified engines

The mechanical offering of the 2024 ASX consists of three engines, including two hybrids:

โ€“ The 100 T: 1.0 turbo petrol engine with 90 hp and 160 Nm, combined with a manual gearbox.โ€“ The 130T MHEV: 1.3 turbo micro-hybrid unit with 140 hp (260 Nm) or 160 hp (270 Nm), coupled with a dual-clutch automatic transmission.โ€“ The 160 HEV: full hybrid engine combining a 1.6 petrol engine and two electric motors, for a combined power of 145 hp.

These last two versions benefit from the ECO label in France, synonymous with tax and traffic advantages.

Versatile road behavior

The 2024 Mitsubishi ASX stands out for its excellent versatility. Comfortable in urban environments thanks to its compact size and power steering, it is no slouch on the road and highway. The engineers have found a subtle balance between comfort, stability and agility.

The well-calibrated suspension effectively filters road irregularities while limiting rolling when cornering. The careful soundproofing contributes to the well-being on board, even at high speeds.

Points for improvement

While the new ASX has many assets, some aspects could use some improvement. The absence of a plug-in hybrid version (PHEV) in the range may disappoint some customers, especially since the previous model offered one. This engine would have allowed the ASX to keep the Crit'Air 0 label, which is particularly advantageous in France.

The interior design, while functional, lacks some personality. The dashboard design remains very close to that of the Renault Captur, on which the ASX is based. An additional effort at differentiation would have been appreciated to assert the Mitsubishi identity.

Competitive value for money

Despite these few reservations, the Mitsubishi ASX 2024 stands out as an attractive option on the compact SUV market. With an entry-level price set at โ‚ฌ23,290 (promotional campaign included), it displays an aggressive price positioning compared to the competition.

The 5-year or 100,000 km manufacturer warranty reinforces the attractiveness of the offer, demonstrating Mitsubishi's confidence in the reliability of its product.

A product โ€œmade in Europeโ€

Notably, the 2024 Mitsubishi ASX is now produced in Europe, at Renault's Valladolid plant in Spain. This strategic choice helps optimize production costs and reduce delivery times for the European market.

This localization of production is part of the alliance strategy between Renault and Mitsubishi, aimed at pooling resources and technologies. It also guarantees compliance with the strictest European quality standards.

The Mitsubishi ASX 2024 is therefore establishing itself as a serious player in the urban SUV segment. Combining style, practicality and modern technologies, it should appeal to customers looking for a versatile and economical vehicle. It remains to be seen whether this new generation will succeed in asserting itself in the face of increasingly fierce competition in this highly competitive category.