New Mitsubishi ASX finally in sight

MITSUBISHI Motors Australia has confirmed its new-generation ASX will arrive sometime this year, the Small segment SUV set to join “significantly enhanced” Outlander and Triton ranges as the current ASX, Eclipse Cross, and Pajero Sport face retirement.

Already on sale in Europe, the Renault Captur-based (Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance CMF-B platform) Mitsubishi ASX is said by Mitsubishi Motors Australia to bring “a sophisticated, stylish and technology-laden vehicle to the Australian market”.

“The new Mitsubishi ASX blends thoroughly modern design and a dynamic driving experience to the next generation of ASX customers,” said Mitsubishi Motors Australia chief executive officer Shaun Westcott.

“We look forward to sharing more details of this intriguing new SUV as we move closer to its market launch in 2025.”

European details show the Spanish-built ASX with more refined visuals, improved safety and connectivity systems, LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, smartphone connectivity, and more.

The ASX features a 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid driveline combining a four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors (an alternator-starter and main drive motor), automatic transmission, and 1.2kWh lithium-ion battery. Total system output is listed at 105kW.

A mild hybrid (MHEV) offering is also available in select markets, combining a 1.3-litre direct injected and turbocharged petrol engine with a six-speed manual (103kW) or seven-speed dual-clutch (116kW) transmission.

Select markets also offer a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit with six-speed manual (67kW) transmission, though this is an unlikely starter for the Australian market.

The long-serving first generation ASX has been available here for 15 years, making it one of the longest running Mitsubishi models ever sold here. It is currently priced from $26,240 drive-away.

Pricing and local specifications will no doubt be revealed closer to the model’s Australian launch.

In addition to providing confirmation of an all-new ASX Mitsubishi Motors Australia clarified the cessation of its current ASX, Eclipse Cross, and Pajero Sport lines in 2025, stating that production on the trio has now ceased due to the adoption of new Australian Design Rules regulations that take effect on 1 March 2025.

“Given the position of ASX, Eclipse Cross and Pajero Sport in their current life cycles, investment towards the re-engineering of these vehicles to incorporate the new ADRs was not commercially feasible,” added Mr Westcott.

“As a result, Australian production of these vehicles has ended. This is not unprecedented; we have seen similar situations before, and our teams are well-prepared to manage this transition.

“We have worked closely with our dealer partners to ensure each model line will be ordered in sufficient quantities ahead of time. This will support our customers while we continue to confirm our future model plans as a core Mitsubishi market. We will announce these future models in due course.”

Mr Westcott said Mitsubishi customers can be assured that servicing and parts requirements for the outgoing models will continue to be supported on an ongoing basis.

Finally, the Japanese importer confirmed the arrival of a “significantly updated” Outlander range for 2025.

The petrol and plug-in hybrid Outlander range promises higher performance, an enhanced design, and greater technology and connectivity – as well as a larger battery for the PHEV model.

It will be joined by what Mitsubishi Motors Australia describes as significant upgrades to its Triton light commercial vehicle range, including additional grades and body styles at some point in 2025.

The changes outlined mean the Mitsubishi Motors Australia portfolio shrinks from five to just two, as detailed below.

2025 Mitsubishi Motors Australia portfolio: