Mitsubishi's softroader ASX'd up

Mitsubishi's Sportage rival is looking set to age a little more gracefully thanks to a visual nip and tuck that also coincides with the addition of some value-added features.

While it doesn't look too different on the outside, new bumpers, grille, chrome accents and rear apron do give it a slightly more purposeful appearance.

The inside story is one of added soft-touch surfaces, chrome detailing and a new steering wheel with multifunction controls - including cruise control buttons in the case of the GLX and GLS derivatives.

All models now have Bluetooth connectivity and a USB-based iPod/iPhone and flash drive functionality that works in sync with the voice-activated 'Link' system. The top-of-the-pile GLS version adds a six-inch touch-screen display to the mix, along with a rear-view camera and parking assistant.

ROCKING SOUND

The GLS can also be ordered with a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium audio system that's integrated with all the aforementioned touch-screen.

All versions of the ASX come with alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric mirrors, remote central locking, seven airbags and ABS brakes.

Move up to the mid-level GLX and you'll be treated to leather seats (with electric adjustment for the driver), full-length panoramic roof, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers as well as keyless entry and start.

In addition to all of this, the GLS adds automatically-adjusting Super-HID headlights with an active cornering function, active stability control and a CVT gearbox - the other two models have a five-speed manual box.

As before, all models are pulled by the front wheels via a 2-litre petrol engine that musters 110kW and 107Nm.

PRICES

2.0 GL - R279 900

2.0 GLX - R304 900

2.0 GLS - R334 900

The standard service plan will serve you for five years or 90 000km and the warranty's valid for three years or 100 000km.