Test drive: Mitsubishi ASX GLS SE 4x4 CVT

MANILA, Philippines - Just before I tested Mitsubishi’s top-of-the-line ASX model, the GLS SE 4x4 CVT, I tested its entry-level version, the ASX GLX 4x2. I liked the little crossover’s sporty good looks, spacious and versatile (and well-crafted) interior, and its solid and refined performance. Needless to say, when I slipped behind the wheel of the flagship ASX, it, too, got my two thumbs up.

But first, a caveat: Like most crossovers, having an all-wheel-drive system on the ASX doesn’t automatically mean it can tackle hard-core off-roading (that’s what the Pajero and Montero Sport are for). The ASX 4x4 model’s ground clearance isn’t even one millimeter higher than its 4x2 sibling’s. What the GLS SE 4x4 CVT would be good for are snow, mud and other slippery surfaces. It’s a fairly sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, though, and one that’s derived from Mitsubishi’s extensive rallying experience. The ASX’s uses Mitsubishi’s Multi-Select 4WD system with 2WD, 4WD and Lock modes.

If you don’t need all this all-wheel-drive mumbo jumbo, there is a mid-level ASX variant, the GLS 4x2 CVT. But then you don’t get the GLS SE 4x4’s numerous upscale features like—stay with me here—side and curtain airbags, xenon headlamps, smart keyless entry with push-button engine start/stop, retractable headlamp washers, Bluetooth cell phone connectivity, iPod and USB ports, automatic climate control, Hill Start Assist, Stability Control, power-folding side mirrors with integrated turning lamps, chrome fog lamp bezels, and two additional speakers. That’s not all: a 6.2-inch touch-screen LCD monitor/head unit with a DVD/CD/MP3/WMA player and GPS navigation is standard on all ASX variants.

That’s a staggering array of goodies that somehow reduces the pain of having to fork over close to a 300-grand premium over the GLS 4x2 CVT’s P1.225 million asking price. (The GLS SE 4x4 CVT goes for a heady P1.498 million.) What I really appreciate with the ASX’s 4x4 variant, however, is that it doesn’t exact a penalty in riding comfort—something that can’t be said with many SUVs and pickups that become much harsher riding in their 4x4 versions.

The car has light and responsive steering (it uses electric instead of hydraulic for power assist) and a suspension that’s impressively supple without being too soft. The ASX’s impressively smooth 2.0-liter MIVEC variable valve timing-equipped engine develops 150 ps at 6000 rpm and 197 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm. It averaged 7 kpl in city driving (it should achieve 8-9 kpl in lighter traffic and 10-12 kpl or even better in cruise mode) and endows the ASX with more than adequate peppiness and refinement, thanks partly to its shift-shock-free CVT gearbox with six manumatic speeds (actuated via paddle shifters or with the “+” and “-” gates on the gearshift lever).

Like its GLX sibling, the GLS’ cargo space is somewhat smaller than that of a station wagon or small SUV, but bigger than a hatchback’s. Folding down the 60:40-split rear seatbacks expands cargo capacity considerably, though. Unlike some new cars that have scooter-thin temporary-use space-saver spare tires, all ASX’s have a full-size 215/60R-17 Yokohama Aspec all-terrain spare tire underneath the removable cargo floor to match its footwear.

Al things considered, Mitsubishi has a winner in the ASX range. The flagship model might seem a tad expensive, but it shouldn’t keep Mitsubishi dealers from being able to sway buyers with smaller budgets to consider its midrange or entry-level siblings. They might even convince compact sedan buyers of other brands to take a long, hard look at this versatile and good-looking crossover.

The Highs

• sporty, upmarket styling

• high build quality

• 6-speed manumatic CVT with paddle shifters

• advanced all-wheel-drive system

• lots and lots of comfort, convenience and 

   safety features

• impressively low NVH levels

The Lows

• priced the same as the half-size bigger

 compact SUVs

The Verdict

Even at halfway through its product life cycle, still one of the best crossovers on the market today