Mitsubishi Motors' ASX Concept Multi-Activity Vehicle
Environmental Friendliness, Ergonomic Packaging and Dynamic
Driving Performance Are Keynotes for the Vehicle of Tomorrow
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DETROIT, Jan. 10 Meeting the unique automotive needs of various people in
different parts of the world has always been the primary challenge of producing
a truly global vehicle. The Mitsubishi ASX multi-activity concept, unveiled today
at the North American International Auto Show, confronts this challenge head
on by addressing versatility, performance and environmental issues to create
an automobile for all reasons.
ASX stands for Active Sports Crossover and is designed to meet the needs
of tomorrow's all-purpose vehicle buyer: smart and ergonomic packaging that
allows for manageable exterior dimensions with maximized interior room; sports
sedan-handling and performance with low exhaust emissions and high fuel
economy; and full-time four-wheel drive flexibility to tackle various weather
and surface conditions.
"The ASX showcases our execution of the industry-wide crossover
phenomenon, combining car-like size and driving characteristics with
off-pavement ability and all-season confidence," said Pierre Gagnon, executive
vice president and chief operating officer, Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America,
Inc. "Our worldwide team of engineers and designers has created a vehicle
that crosses not only categories, but geographical needs and considerations
for markets around the world, creating a truly 'global crossover' vehicle."
Combining a sleek, sedan-like personality with the function of an SUV was
not a simple undertaking, and the ASX's style represents a fusion of these
dichotomous themes elegantly blended to create an automobile that virtually
stands alone. Its hidden B and C pillars and sleek roof silhouette combine
with the familiar "performance sedan" sloping hoodline and contemporary front
fascia. Yet its substantial front and rear bumper claddings and thick side
molding sit high and rugged to indicate that the ASX's 9.6-inches of ground
clearance can and will perform in nearly all weather conditions and surfaces.
The large, 17-inch wheels provide the trekking ability through mud, sleet or
snow, while the 235 width and 55-profile tires ensure confident on-road
cornering and high-speed stability.
The ASX incorporates a sophisticated powerplant with an emphasis on
efficient fuel consumption and low exhaust emissions without compromising
horsepower or torque. The 2.4-liter displacement 16-valve engine features
Mitsubishi Motors' renowned Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) system. Utilizing
low sulfur unleaded gas, GDI technology injects air and fuel separately and
directly into the combustion chamber as opposed to the traditional air/fuel
mixture. This produces a more volatile environment in the chamber, resulting
in a more powerful combustion that burns fuller and more completely, leaving
less unburned fuel in its emissions while producing more power.
This power is transferred through a second-generation INVECS (Intelligent
and Innovative Vehicles Electronic Control System) 4-speed automatic
transmission, and features the Sportronic(TM) sequential shift system. This
computer-controlled transmission allows for engine revs to be held for added
torque off-road until the driver chooses to shift to a higher gear, or allows
for manual-style downshifts for increased power management in spirited on-road
drives. The ASX features a full-time four-wheel drive system utilizing a
center differential with viscous coupling. Like the ASX itself, the INVECS
transmission provides the best of both worlds for off-road confidence and
on-road performance.
A stylish and ergonomic interior demonstrates the flexibility of the ASX,
and provides unyielding luxury and convenience with functionality. The
unique, T-shaped dash gives the driver a commanding view of the gauges as well
as the road while maintaining the familiar, car-like seating position. The
ASX also features a semi-flat floor for excellent cargo capacity and allows
for improved mobility around the cabin. The large greenhouse provides for
excellent visibility all around the spacious interior cabin while luxuriously
appointed leather-trimmed seats provide comfort for five passengers. Numerous
technological innovations compliment the driving experience, including an
advanced driving information system and the Mitsubishi Multi-Communications
System (MMCS). Several unique features are part of the MMCS system, including
on-board vehicle navigation, driver information center, climate and audio
controls and a rear-facing camera to assist in reversing. All these features
are contained within a rigid and reinforced unibody structure with attention
to passenger safety and security.
"As all parts of the world embrace technology, the automobile will
continue serving above and beyond the function of the personal conveyance
device it was originally intended to be," adds Gagnon. "We will continue to
design, engineer and manufacture vehicles that serve as enablers to the
visionary consumer; vehicles that inspire creativity and drive emotions. The
ASX is only the latest example of this continuing global effort for Mitsubishi
Motors."
The Mitsubishi ASX will be modified to meet the Japanese market
requirements and will go on sale in that country in mid-2001 before release to
other world markets.