Sometimes in the car market the newest is overlooked for a tried and tested model that offers outstanding value for money and inclusions. Mitsubishi’s long-standing compact ASX SUV is a case in point – the top-seller under $40,000. Updated for the fourth time before Xmas the Mitsubishi ASX has gained a smart new face, more equipment, a seven-year/150,000 k warranty and two years free servicing all designed to keep it top of the pack. Mitsubishi also added a 2.4–litre engine to the LS and top grade Exceed models. I tested the latter currently on offer for $35,740 drive-away – with leather upholstery, premium sound, a larger 8-inch infotainment screen and LED headlights together with a rear view camera and rear parking sensors it’s a value buy in small SUV’s.

Economy wise, I achieved 7.7L/100km in mainly city driving while it’s happy to drink lower grade 91 RON petrol. As I said earlier while it offers extraordinary value its underpinnings are now starting to show some age compared to the newer competition like the Kia Seltos. Driving dynamics lack some positivity at times, steering particularly but for the most you can’t question its overall appeal as a value buy. Yes you can pay extra for the new and dynamic Mazda CX-30 but for young families on a tight budget the ASX offers much – great warranty support at 7 years/150,000km plus two-years free servicing plus sharp drive-away pricing.

I’m David Berthon

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