Driving Mitsubishi’s evergreen small SUV today – the long-standing ASX, not the latest and best described as an oldie but a goodie, very well priced but best specified and best value in the second tier ES grade backed up by an industry leading 10-year/200,000km warranty as long as its serviced by a Mitsubishi dealer. But how does it drive – the ASX ES grade at just under $30,000 drive-away powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder driving the front wheels through a CVT automatic. Step into the cabin and it feels a little dated, very comfortable and practical with great seats but there’s no smart key or wireless phone charger, but thankfully, it has dials for the climate control air-con, radio tuning and volume as distinct to the frustrating and distractive menus on a touch screen. The drive experience also shows its age – the engine no fire breather and the CVT lets off an unusual sound under load, the noise vibration and harshness levels such that it feels a little unrefined when pushed hard. No problems with economy however, 8.0L/100 on 91 grade petrol while it exhibits good steering feel and a pleasant ride. But the overriding feature of the Mitsubishi ASX is the value story and its impressive. I’m David Berthon

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