Two New Variants – badged ES – Coming to Mitsubishi ASX Line-up

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) has broadened the ASX range with the introduction of two variants – badged ES – that slot in below the current model mix.

“The ASX was first introduced in South Africa in 2011 and since its launch, more than 9 300 units have been sold in South Africa, making it the most successful model for the brand in the last decade. The ASX has also opened the Mitsubishi brand to younger families. The addition of the two ES models with revised specification levels now places this lifestyle within reach of buyers for whom affordability is a greater consideration,” says Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at MMSA.

Apart from featuring the same powertrain combinations as the LS models, the ES additions to the range also have the same striking exterior styling, spacious interior, upgraded seats and advanced mechanics.

Key exterior features include LED headlights and LED daytime running lights (DRL), as well as LED fog lamps and electrically adjustable foldaway mirrors. At the rear, ES models have LED brake lights, LED taillights, LED reverse lights and a rear spoiler with a high-mounted stop lamp.

ES models have power windows all round, fabric upholstery and manual air-conditioning. A radio/CD player is standard, while a touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is available as an option. USB and accessory sockets are provided, as is Bluetooth connectivity with hands-free voice control. Driver comfort is enhanced by the inclusion of cruise control.

The rear seats have a 60:40 split, and boot space is a respectable 406 litres with all seats in place. However, this can be expanded to 1 206 litres with the rear seats folded down.

The new ES models use the same engine as their LS siblings, this being Mitsubishi’s 2,0-litre MIVEC aluminium powerplant, offering 110 kW at 6 000 r/min and peak torque of 197 Nm at 4 200 r/min.

As with the LS specification level, the ES is available with a five-speed manual transmission or CVT.

Safety specification includes hill start assist (HSA) and active stability and traction control (ASTC), as well as anti-lock brakes with brake assist (BAS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).

Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction, which provides all-direction collision safety design, is supplemented by side impact protection beams, a collapsible steering column, brake pedal recession protection and whiplash injury reduction seats to ensure optimal occupant safety. 

Driver, passenger, and knee crash bags as well as ISOFIX child seat anchor points are also standard as part of the package.

The ASX range is covered by Mitsubishi’s 3-year/100 000 km manufacturer warranty, a 3-year /60 000 km service plan and 3-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km or once a year.

“The ASX has proven itself to be a youthful, urbanised crossover SUV for those who appreciate quality, capability, practicality and versatility in a vehicle. With the introduction of the ES models, more South Africans will now be able to benefit from Mitsubishi’s impressive SUV heritage and unrivalled reputation, while enjoying enhanced affordability and value for money,” added Allison.

“Following the 2021 introduction of the Xpander, this is the next step in MMSA’s strategy to bring the brand to more local buyers by offering a wider range. It also marks the beginning of an extremely compelling product offensive in 2022 where we look to enhance our entire model range.”

MMSA has also confirmed the expected arrival of the limited edition ASX Aspire, which will feature refreshed exterior and interior styling.

”The Aspire nomenclature will be introduced across the Mitsubishi passenger vehicle range and will complement the Exceed derivatives. Aspire models will, however, be focused more on technology and styling enhancements.” Allison concluded.

Mitsubishi ASX Pricing: