Mitsubishi ASX - Top alternatives

To cater to the booming demand for compact crossovers and SUVs over the conventional sedans, Mitsubishi come up with ASX. The “Active Sport Crossover” from Mitsubishi has already generated some rave reviews for its very aggressive design theme, the proven underpinnings and mechanicals. The ASX is being highly praised for its high-quality interiors, premium features and the powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine mated to a CVT transmission, which is considered to be the benchmark powertrain configuration in this segment.

However, the new Mitsubishi ASX comes at a time when the compact crossover segment is at an all-time high, with the presence of some already established players and the arrival of some new names. We take a closer look at what all other options you can consider apart from Mitsubishi’s onslaught:-

Nissan Juke 

Beginning with the crossover which started it all, the Nissan Juke is the oldest player in the field. But mind you, even after having the oldest design, it still has a very striking presence thanks to its quirky looks. The oddball front end with lower positioned round headlamps and sloping roofline indeed make the Juke look sporty and unique. Powering the Nissan Juke is a 1.6-litre petrol engine, which produces 116 bhp of maximum power and 154 Nm of peak torque and is mated to a CVT gearbox.

Honda HR-V 

The RAV4 is another Japanese name in this list which comes from a traditional car maker but has a sense of uniqueness all over it. Like most of the previous and current generation Honda compact SUVs, this too has a very aggressive design language and sits on a monocoque frame which makes it feel very car-like to drive. This crossover from Honda sources its power from a 1.8-litre petrol engine mated to a CVT transmission. This engine puts up 142 bhp and 172 Nm of torque, making it one of the most potent crossovers in this segment.

Mazda CX-3

If you are out for a crossover which looks gorgeous, the Mazda CX-3 has to be that vehicle. The most striking looking output of the KODO design philosophy, which the Mazda CX-3 has got is the plush and well-built interior. It seems a cut smaller rivals, but then the performance from the 2.0-litre engine is up to the heads of others. Coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission, the engine is good enough to belt out a maximum power output of 148 bhp and a peak torque output of 192 Nm.

Suzuki Vitara 

Out of all the Japanese crossovers in this segment, the Suzuki Vitara looks the least striking in terms of design. But then, its functional approach, traditional SUV lines, and larger dimensions over competitors impart a commendable road presence, similar to SUVs from one segment above. This most affordable crossover in the category has got a refined 1.6-litre petrol motor under its hood. Paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox, the engine squeezes out 115 bhp of maximum power and 156 Nm of torque.

MG GS 

The MG GS is one crossover which brings in some British essence into this Japanese dominated segment. The crossover blends in design cues of both a sedan and traditional SUV very effectively, which hides its somewhat lower stance compared to other crossovers in the segment. Matching its smart looks and plush interiors is a choice of two engine options – 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre both petrol. While the smaller 1.5-litre mill makes 124 bhp of power and 250 Nm of torque, the bigger 2.0-litre motor puts up 162 bhp of power and 350 Nm of torque. Both the engines get different set of dual clutch automatic gearboxes, making the GS the only vehicle in this segment to have a dual clutch transmission.