Practical test Mitsubishi ASX: With French stirrup holder

The traditional Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi is implementing the alliance forged in 2016 with Nissan and Renault. For the first time in the company's history, a Renault becomes the basis for its own model. With its three-diamond logo on the radiator grille, the Capture mini SUV is the successor to the ASX. Its pleasing exterior and a homely interior adorn the new edition, but some details, such as the lack of direct access to important control functions, are evidence of progress that can be dispensed with.

The base model of the Capture with the Japanese label costs 24,690 euros. It comes with a three-cylinder turbocharged engine with a displacement of one liter and 67 kW (91 hp), which delivers 160 Nm of torque. With this engine, the performance of the four-door car, which weighs just under 1,300 kilograms unladen, is very restrained: the sprint from 0 to 100 takes 14 seconds, and the speedometer needle shows 168 km/h at top speed. Consumption is disappointing at 6.3 liters in practice, half a liter above the WLTP value. If you're in a hurry, you'll have to dig deeper into your pocket and opt for one of the hybrid versions, which also have up to 117 kW (159 hp) as plug-in variants, but also cost at least 30,990 euros.

The Renault Capture and the Mitsubishi ASX are still very similar, apart from the different brand logos on the radiator grille, the rear and the steering wheel. However, this is set to change as early as next year. With the change of model year, the ASX will have its own face, which will then fit more harmoniously into the Japanese portfolio.

Even though the Mitsubishi is completely similar to the Renault in terms of technology and thus driving behavior, there are reasons for the decision in favor of the ASX. Customers of the Japanese brand are considered loyal and have always been attracted by its high reliability and good value for money. This will keep many from switching, especially since only Mitsubishi offers the warranty, which can be extended from the standard five to eight years for around 240 euros. (aum/mk)