It’s one of the biggest fears that face both the car manufacturer and consumer alike; how will the locally-assembled version stack-up against the same model that was introduced earlier in CBU (completely built-up) form? From a consumer standpoint, there’s always been a general (mis?) conception that fully-imported vehicles are more superior to locally-assembled ones. Well, that’s because in most cases, they are, or were anyway. It’s a mind-set that this SUV for one, hopes to change.
It has been about four years since the Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 SUV was first introduced in the country, and even back then it was already pegged by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) as a model to consider locally assembling. It has taken about four-years and finally the ASX has been localized. In addition to being assembled at the Tan Chong assembly plant in Segambut from CKD ‘packs’ that come directly from Japan, there’s currently about 30% local content in the ASX, with plans to increase that percentage to 50% in future.
In doing so, MMM managed to bring the on-the-road price of the ASX down quite significantly; while the CBU version was priced at RM143,888, the base model ASX 2WD now costs an affordable RM118,000, while the top-of-the-line 4WD variant (pictured below) is priced at RM132,500.
As it is not a new car – its powertrain, suspension and general specifications remain unchanged – the key to this media drive was to ascertain the differences, if any, between the quality standards of a CBU ASX over a CKD one.
First-off it has to be said that the ASX is not a big SUV; it’s more a compact in terms of exterior size, which should bode well for those seeking an alternative to a mid-size passenger sedan. Its dimensions allow for exceptionally easy maneuverability and ease of use, while proximity sensors and a reverse camera allow for easier parking. In terms of luggage space, 60:40 split fold rear seats allow for added cargo room.
However, in an effort to keep costs down to have a significant price variance over both models, it’s only the 4WD variant (utilizing a lockable torque-on-demand four-wheel drive system) that gets cruise-control, active stability control, traction control, hill-start assist and security window tint. But it’s good though, that both variants come with ABS, EBD, dual-airbags including an additional driver’s knee airbag, and the aforementioned reverse camera, as well as a full-leather interior which includes leather-wrapped steering-wheel and gear-shift knob. Oh yeah, and only the 4WD gets that gorgeous panoramic fixed sunroof too (below), and 17-inch alloy wheels (16-inch alloys on the 2WD).
The same 4B11 2.0-litre, in-line 4-cylinder DOHC MIVEC engine mated to an INVECS-III CVT transmission is used in both the 2WD and 4WD versions and it’s good for 150Ps and 197Nm of torque. While the engine is smooth and free-revving, it has to be said that the CVT transmission seems inordinately loud, especially during hard acceleration, when overtaking. Once settled again at more sedate revs, it quietens down significantly.
Buyers of the 4WD version will also get those rather cool magnesium-alloy +/- ‘paddle’ shifters positioned behind the steering wheel, however 2WD buyers need not despair as both models can be ‘manually’ shifted via the gear lever, allowing for a 6-step manual ratio change. Honestly though, as nice as they are to look at, I reckon they’ll hardly be used, as the best way to drive the ASX is simply to cruise.
It does not like being chucked about from corner to curve, seeing as how its suspension has been tuned for comfort rather than outright performance and rightly so, it’s not an EVO. Thumb the push-start button, select ‘D’ and just sit back and enjoy the drive, the ASX does everything else.
So let’s get back to that question mark about CBU versus CKD and which is better. I reckon for the first time I can get away with saying ‘neither’. From what I recall of the CBU ASX, this CKD version feels, behaves and drives exactly the same as its fully-imported sibling. Acceleration is linear and smooth, and apart from that CVT whine at higher revs, the engine itself is eager.
I did notice it does tend to run out of suspension travel in the rear, especially with a full load of occupants and luggage, however, that only happened when we drove the ASX hard through a series of bends with some rather nasty mid corner undulations. Still though, it has to be said that despite our best intentions, and less-than-perfect B-roads, the ASX never felt out of control at any time.
It was good of MMM to organize this quick review of the CKD ASX, perhaps to allay the fears of prospective buyers as well as the skeptics among us. It may have taken almost 4 years, but the results are worth it, and the winners are you the end consumer; for here is your chance to get a very nice SUV for about the price of a Kia Cerato. Does it get any better than that?
Specifications: Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 CKD
Engine: In-line 4-cyl MIVEC, DOHC, 16V, 1,998cc
Transmission: INVECS-III CVT with manual 6-step sports mode
Max power: 150Ps @ 6,000rpm
Max torque: 197Nm @ 4,200rpm
Suspension F/R: MacPherson strut coil spring with stabilizer / Multi-link coil springs with stabilizer
Brakes F/R: Ventilated discs / Discs
Wheels & Tyres: 215/60 R17 (4WD); 215/65 R16 (2WD)
