Mitsubishi ASX flagship gets even better

Mitsubishi have decided that the flagship of their ASX range, the GLS CVT, should stand out from the rest of the range even more.

There are those of us who are sceptical about how vehicles with CVT gearboxes can become flagship models at all, but that is because we are old and grumpy.

The changes made to the top-of-therange ASX were done after extensive market research to further improve this crossover’s global sales performance.

This was done after extensive market research, significantly and by Mitsubishi’s own admission, to make it even more appealing for modern-day cross-over SUV drivers. Ageism clear and simple, which explains the choice of gearbox.

All the same it’s a really cool vehicle. There is a new front grille design with added chrome garnish and a new bumper design with a sporty honeycomb pattern above the lower spoiler.

LED daylight running lights bring it right up to date.

The back also gets a new bumper design with carbon fibre inserts and a diffuser for a sportier look, as well as added chrome garnish and LED rear fog lamp. Other cosmetic changes to the stylish GLS CVT derivative include a redesigned centre console with decorative trim in a geometric pattern of brightwork featuring two USB ports and a mobile phone tray with removable padded liner.

The design and materials used in the centre console, the dashboard centre panel and power window switch panels have also changed. Mitsubishi has also redesigned the CVT shift lever, included a new seat design with red stitching, as well as the soft-touch knee pads on the outside of the centre console to round off the new look on the inside of this stylish derivative.

Striking new 18 inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and a new silver body colour with enhanced brightness distinguish the GLS CVT from the rest of the ASX range.

“The cosmetic changes and technical enhancements made to our ASX range-topper make our new GLS CVT the ideal family cross-over ready for any trip and destination,” says Nic Campbell, general manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).

“The great news, however, is that Mitsubishi’s new class-leading INVECS-III CVT with a sixstep Sports Mode is now fitted to this new model. CVTs are gaining popularity with customers in the cross-over market and ASX is offering drivers one of the best CVTs available on the market,” adds Campbell.

He is quite correct, but it’s a self-fulfilling prophecy if you keep reducing the other conventional.

Over the past few years, CVTs have become a regular feature found in smaller city cars and cross-over SUVs. The CVT keeps the engine in its optimum power range at all times, resulting in improved fuel efficiency, lower exhaust emissions and a smoother and more comfortable ride, as well as effortless acceleration from any speed and with seamless gear changes.

Well that’s the theory anyway. In practice it’s not so often achieved. It has occasionally been achieved and it’s great when it works.

Mitsubishi have delivered on every technological promise I have recently experienced so this one too should be good.

Anything called an INVECS-III should be good, even if only the engineer knows what it actually means. The range-topping ASX boasts a soft-feel leather interior, including a leather-covered multi-function steering wheel.

Over and above the already high standard specification level offered by the ASX range, such as seven airbags and a host of other active and passive safety features, the GLS CVT has Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

The GLS CVT also comes standard with a chromatic rearview mirror, a rearview camera, rear Park Distance Control, heated and fold-away side mirrors with builtin indicator lights, LED daytime running lights and a keyless Operating System.

The GLS models are fitted with a full-length panoramic glass roof with a UV protective coating and one-touch cover and adjustable LED mood-lighting.

“Our new ASX GLS CVT model is Mitsubishi’s flagship lifestyle crossover SUV which offers an increased ride-height, extensive active and passive safety features, contemporary styling and luxurious comfort and space, making it the most desirable model in the ASX range.

“There have been exciting changes since the recent formation of the new Alliance, one of which is continuous market research to ensure our products address the needs of the modern crossover driver,” adds Campbell.

“The best news though is that we were able to keep the retail price of this derivative at the same level as the previous GLS CVT model.”

The GLS CVT is covered by a three-year/100 000km manufacturer’s warranty and a fiveyear/90 000km service plan with 15 000km service intervals. Pricing starts at R399 995.