2023 Mitsubishi ASX 1.3L Turbo MHEV 7AT FWD (158 Hp)

Vehicle Overview

Mitsubishi introduced the second generation of the ASX in 2023, a badge-engineered version of the French Renault Captur, thus lowering the R&D costs.

After the marriage between Renault and Mitsubishi, the Japanese brand was in danger of being expelled from the European market. But the new owner thought differently. After all, if Volkswagen Group sold, basically, the same Golf under three different badges (SEAT, Skoda, and VW), Renault could do the same. The automaker’s only problem was that its expertise in badge engineering was small. While the Germans had created different bodyworks, the French group just ripped off the rhomboidal badges and installed the three-diamond one in place.

At the front, the small-sized crossover featured the same headlights as the Renault Captur, with its C-shaped LED daytime running lights. In the middle of the black grille, the carmaker placed the three-diamond badge supported on the rhomboidal plastic part that was pressed for Renault. On its sides, depending on the version and options, the ASX sported 18″ light-alloy wheels and chromed trims on the lower sides of the doors. Finally, at the back, the automaker installed Mitsubishi lettering on the tailgate, while the place for the former Renault badge was occupied by the reversing camera. It looked like an add-on aftermarket equipment, although it wasn’t.

Inside, the ASX featured the same bolstered front bucket seats carried over from Renault’s parts bin, and the same went with the rear bench. In addition, the three-spoke steering wheel featured buttons on the horizontal spokes. Mitsubishi installed a digital screen inside the instrument cluster while atop the center stack boasted a 9.3″ infotainment touchscreen.

The car was available with a small engine range, either gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. The PHEV version was connected with a four-speed automatic gearbox for the ICE and a two-speed for the electric motor.