Enhanced 2015 Mitsubishi ASX Launched: New 2WD GL Variant Introduced From RM104k

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) have officially launched the updated 2015 Mitsubishi ASX range today, which introduces a new entry-level 2WD GL variant to the lineup, priced from RM104,792 (OTR without insurance). This brings the total number of ASX variants to three, adding to the two currently available variants – the 2WD and 4WD, which gets a bump in kit as well, with reduced prices to go along with it.

First up, the ASX’s exterior on both the 4WD and 2WD gets an update in design with daytime running lights incorporated into the fog lamp enclosures. A shark fin antenna is now in place of the previous stick one as well. For the top-spec ASX 4WD variant (seen here in the new Sporty Blue body colour), new-design, two-toned 17-inch alloy wheels are also fitted. Front parking sensors are still available for the 2WD and 4WD variants but the 2WD GL will have to make do without them.

Moving inside, the cabin gets a new touchscreen multimedia unit with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. The unit also features navigation capabilities and a Virtual Acoustic Positioning System (VAPS) for an improved acoustic experience. The 2WD GL gets standard dual DIN audio system instead where the lack of screen also sees the reverse camera dropped from its equipment list.

Elsewhere, the centre console adopts a new design, while the power window switch panels on the door now get a piano black finish.

Standard equipment across all three variants (ASX 4WD, 2WD, and 2WD GL) include leather seats, automatic climate control, a coloured Multi-Info Display, and auto retractable side mirrors. The touchscreen multimedia unit mentioned above is only found on the 2WD and 4WD variants. For the 4WD variant, the equipment list is further expanded to include keyless entry with push-start operation, cruise control, and paddle shifters.

Safety for the ASX 4WD also receives an upgrade to seven airbags (dual front, side, curtains, and driver’s knee airbag). As before, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake distribution (EBD) still come as standard across the ASX range, with the 4WD variant adding on Mitsubishi’s All Wheel Control 4WD System, Active Stability Control (ASC), Traction Control, and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

Under the hood, the familiar 2.0-litre MIVEC engine still produces 150PS and 197Nm of torque, paired to the INVECS-III CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) with Sports Mode.

As we’ve mentioned, the ASX 2WD and 4WD’s additional kit also sees a reduction in price. The ASX 2WD now comes in with a price tag of RM112,571 (RM1,472 less) while the 4WD is from RM125,041 (RM3,138 less). All ASX variants come with a five-year warranty package with body colour offerings that include Titanium Grey, Cool Silver, Solid White, and the already-mentioned new Sporty Blue, which displaces the outgoing Black Mica.

The introduction of the Mitsubishi ASX 2WD GL makes it a strong case against the mid-tier Honda HR-V in E variant (RM104,135) and the Ford EcoSport 1.5L Titanium (RM100,800).