As previously announced, the new ASX is based on the Renault Captur with minimal differences. It is expected to arrive in the second half of 2025 with fewer trim levels than its predecessor and a whole host of updates inside and out.
Lower trims axed, higher starting price
Unlike the current ASX that is available in six variants (GS, ES, MR, LS, GSR, and Exceed), the 2025 Mitsubishi ASX is set to launch in Australia with just three: LS, Aspire, and Exceed.
The removal of the entry-level GS and ES variants suggests the starting price will rise above the current $24,490 (before on-road costs). The existing LS CVT automatic is priced at $30,490, making it likely that the new entry-level LS model will start at a similar or higher price point. On top of that, the new ASX LS trim will attract a premium over its predecessor for the new features on offer. Lastly, the new Mitsubishi small SUV will be built and imported from Spain which adds a 5 per cent import tariff since Australia does not have a Free Trade Agreement with European Union countries. The current ASX is built in Japan without any import tariffs.
With the deletion of the entry-level trims for the entry-level Mitsubishi offering in Australia, the ASX could easily witness an increase of $6000 or more for the starting price. Even comparing entry-level automatic variants for the outgoing version, the 2025 ASX would get pricier by more than $3500.
New engines and powertrain options
While official engine details for the Australian specification of the 2025 ASX have not yet been confirmed, Mitsubishi is considering all powertrains available in Europe, which include:
- 1.3-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (available with or without mild-hybrid technology).
- 1.6-litre full-hybrid, sourced from Renault.
- 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid.
The 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is the most likely option for local buyers, as it also powers the Renault Captur, the car on which the new Mitsubishi ASX is based.
It would be replacing the 2-litre and 2.4-litre petrol engines, both mated to a CVT automatic transmission. The smaller engine also has the choice of a 5-speed manual, another element that will be removed with the arrival of the new ASX. These engines have a performance rating of 110kW and 123kW respectively, with a best claimed efficiency of just 7.6L/100km. Meanwhile, the smaller, turbocharged engine is rated at 116kW and offers increased efficiency around the 6L/100km mark.
Features and equipment
The Mitsubishi ASX is a popular small SUV thanks to its affordability. Combined with a lack of significant updates over 15 years, it was not known for many comforts, but that’s bound to change with this new Renault-based iteration. Based on its European counterpart, the entry-level LS variant of the 2025 ASX could include:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- 10.4-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Six-speaker audio system
- 7.0-inch instrument cluster display
- Cloth upholstery
- Climate control
- Keyless entry and start
- Advanced safety features
The Aspire and Exceed trims are expected to add premium features such as:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- Nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
- Leather-look or full-leather upholstery
- 360-degree camera
- Adaptive cruise control
- Heated front seats
- Wireless phone charging
Updated design and cabin
Built in the same Spanish factory, the new Mitsubishi ASX only has minor styling differences from the Renault Captur, including Mitsubishi-specific bumpers and badges. While it loses some of its visual character, the new look certainly makes the ASX look sharper and modern. Keep in mind that the small SUV does get smaller in this new avatar, but newer cars are better at maximising space inside the cabin and the Captur is certainly younger by half.
The age of the ASX is most apparent inside the cabin. In this new-generation avatar, it benefits from a new layout with the vertically oriented touchscreen taking centre stage on the dashboard. Each aspect of this Renault-based interior seems to be a step above the outgoing ASX, but we would temper expectations for a premium experience.
Why is the 2025 ASX not a proper Mitsubishi?
Mitsubishi’s decision to replace the current ASX, Eclipse Cross, and Pajero Sport was influenced by Australia’s Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) mandate, which came into effect on 1 March 2025. The carmaker determined that re-engineering the existing ASX to comply with the regulations was “not commercially feasible”.
As a result, Mitsubishi opted to depend on its partnership with Renault, an expert in small SUVs, and picked the Captur to be the donor for the upcoming 2025 ASX. When its Australian arrival was discussed in 2023, Mitsubishi global CEO Takao Kato voiced doubts about its success here as it is not a “real Mitsubishi”.
Future of Mitsubishi in Australia
The brand will transition to a more streamlined model range, with just three core vehicles – the new ASX, Outlander, and Triton – in Australian showrooms by early 2026. A new-generation Pajero Sport, based on the latest Triton ute, is expected to arrive sometime next year.
Earlier in the year, Mitsubishi caught headlines for excusing itself from the proposed Honda-Nissan merge and instead was considering to be independent. However, the merger itself has fallen through and once again placed doubts on how Mitsubishi aims to ensure its long-term future. It still has a decent presence in Australia and intends to regain lost ground in the SUV space.
The 2025 Mitsubishi ASX is set to launch in Australia in the second half of 2025, with further details, including pricing and final specifications, expected closer to its release.
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