Mitsubishi ASX

THE ASX represents a big shift in thinking at Mitsubishi – and it seems to have worked. It does not have the beating of its main rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai or Skoda Yeti, but it offers value for money, a roomy interior and a decent drive. Highlight of the package is the strong and refined 1.8-litre diesel engine, which also gives impressive fuel economy and emissions figures. The ASX deserves to be a major success for Mitsubishi.

Meet the shape of things to come at Mitsubishi – the new Active Sports Crossover, or ASX for short. While the company won’t be forgetting about its Evo-badged performance cars, it says this Nissan Qashqai rival is the future. So is it set to be a big-seller?  

Built on the same platform as the Outlander SUV, but similar in size to a Golf, the ASX showcases Mitsubishi’s new 148bhp 1.8-litre diesel engine with variable valve-timing and Auto Stop & Go.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Mitsubishi ASX

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The new powerplant is the star of the show – it’s smooth, refined and propels the car from 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds, while offering combined fuel consumption of 51.4mpg. The six-speed gearbox has well judged ratios, too, and around town the stop-start system works smoothly, even if it is a little slow on the uptake on occasion.

The ASX grips well and absorbs bumps reasonably. At high speed, the lack of wind or road noise is truly impressive. Designers have made great strides with the interior as well, which is more stylish and offers better quality than recent Mitsubishis. There’s plenty of room for rear passengers thanks to high-set front seats with lots of foot room under their bases.

Although it is not quite good enough to be class leader,the ASX is the best all-round offering from Mitsubishi to date. It is definitely worth a look for family car buyers.