As customers desert their larger, volume brand saloons, car manufacturers are flooding the small crossover segment with new product launches.

A crossover gives you space, a better view of the road and still comes with technology features that would be found on premium models. On that last point,  Mitsubishi’s ASX scores particularly well.

The ASX is helping the Japanese brand to recover UK sales volumes, which have been eroded over the years, by letting dealers compete in the small crossover market. It is one of the ‘halo’ vehicles in the brand’s product range (before that mantle is taken by the Outlander plug-in hybrid this year).

The ASX is expected to account for nearly 50% of Mitsubishi’s sales volumes this year, with 4,500 units predicted for the crossover model.

AM’s latest addition to the long-term fleet is an ASX diesel automatic, which will account for an estimated 15% of Mitsubishi sales for that model. That engine and transmission combination are in demand in this segment, with 19% of SUV sales being diesel automatic.

Mitsubishi is aiming the ASX at style-conscious family buyers

Mitsubishi is targeting style-conscious family buyers who want to upgrade from a C-segment hatchback, but  do not want to burden themselves with increased ownership costs. Customers with towing requirements will be drawn in, too.

Mitsubishi is offering 0% finance offers on the ASX as well as PCP deals, which price the 2.2-litre diesel 4WD at £249 a month after a £7,760 deposit.

On technology features, the Grade 4 trim on AM’s ASX features a long list of premium options at a competitive price in comparison with top-spec rivals such as the Ford Kuga. There’s almost a £6,150 gap between the ASX 4 diesel auto and Ford Kuga Titanium X Powershift 2.0 TDCi (£30,295).

AM’s ASX 4 premium features include a reversing camera, leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof and Kenwood integrated satellite navigation and CD/radio with MP3 compatability.

It also comes with 4WD as standard, and has earned a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP.

The 2.2-litre diesel is capable of returning 48.7mpg and has CO2 emissions of 153g/km, which put it in tax band F at £140 a year.

AM is looking forward to putting the ASX through its paces over the next six months.

 

What’s been said about the ASX

MSN Cars

In ASX4 auto form, the ASX is a strong buying proposition, well priced against rivals, good to drive and low on fuel bills. Yet in other respects it lacks a solid feel and thoughtful design. We are far from being won over.

Autocar

The only real issue with buying the ASX4 Auto is that for £23,175 you can buy a better-equipped 2.0-litre 4x4 Skoda Yeti.