Mitsubishi ASX lives to fight another year

Mitsubishi has announced upgrades for its base-model ASX as it enters into its twilight years.

Already the best-selling small SUV in Australia, the 2019 Mitsubishi ASX is powered exclusively by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder MIVEC petrol engine in two-wheel-drive, across the range.

Pricing starts at $23,490 plus on-roads for the base-model ES in manual, and $25,490 for the CVT auto.

An optional ADAS safety pack is available in CVT only, boasting an array of features including Blind Spot Warning, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Mitigation, reverse sensors, dusk-sensing headlights and rain sensing wipers - all for an extra $1500.

Mid-range LS models also now get a smart key with one-touch start, Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, auto high-beam, privacy glass and microsuede seats with leather-look bolsters.

Riding on 18-inch alloy wheels, the LS is only available with CVT transmission, starting at $27,990.

Flagship Exceed models are now $30,990 and come with standard safety tech like Blind Spot Warning, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The interior features leather seat facings, heated front seats and a classy panoramic glass roof with LED mood lighting.

Mitsubishi chief executive John Signoriello says the ASX is the cornerstone of Mitsubishi’s SUV line-up.

“ASX is a perennial favourite with SUV shoppers so we’ve taken the time to introduce meaningful improvements without altering ASX’s winning formula,” says Signoriello.

Mitsubishi’s newest SUV, the Eclipse Cross, has also been given a base-model ES to join the brand’s already extensive SUV line-up.

The ES gets the same 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the rest of the Eclipse trim levels, producing 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque paired to a CVT auto transmission.

Forward Collision Mitigation, reverse camera, LED daytime running lights, fog lamps and 18-inch alloy wheels come standard on the ES Eclipse Cross, with prices starting at $29,990 plus on-roads.