Mitsubishi ASX highway driving review Australia

The Mitsubishi ASX has long been a popular choice in Australia’s compact SUV segment, offering practicality and value. However, its highway driving performance often comes under scrutiny, especially when competing against newer rivals.

This review puts the ASX to the test on Australian highways, assessing its engine power, ride comfort, noise levels, and fuel efficiency over long distances.

From urban sprawls to open roads, we explore whether this versatile crossover remains a competent companion for highway travel or falls short of expectations. Discover how the ASX handles the demands of Australian motorways in this comprehensive drive analysis.

Mitsubishi ASX Highway Driving Performance: A Detailed Review in Australia

The Mitsubishi ASX offers a competent and comfortable highway driving experience across Australian roads, making it a practical choice for long-distance commuting and road trips. Its 1.8-liter turbo-diesel engine provides ample torque for effortless overtaking and hill climbing, while the suspension is tuned to balance stability at speed with absorption of bumps and imperfections commonly found on Australian highways.

The cabin remains well-insulated from wind and road noise, and the light steering becomes pleasantly weighted at higher speeds, contributing to a sense of confidence on sweeping bends and straight stretches alike.

Engine Performance and Overtaking Power on the Highway

On the open road, the Mitsubishi ASX’s turbocharged diesel engine delivers a surge of torque from low revs, making highway merging and overtaking feel effortless. The six-speed automatic transmission responds smoothly to throttle inputs, holding gears efficiently on inclines to maintain momentum.

Australian drivers will appreciate the engine’s ability to cruise effortlessly at 110 km/h without feeling strained, and the fuel economy on long highway stretches often exceeds 5.0 L/100 km, significantly reducing running costs for frequent travelers.

Ride Comfort and Cabin Noise on Australian Roads

The ASX’s suspension setup does an admirable job of absorbing coarse-chip surfaces and road irregularities typical of Australian outback highways. The cabin remains surprisingly quiet at freeway speeds, with minimal wind noise even in gusty conditions, thanks to effective sealing and aerodynamic design.

Seats provide good lumbar support for long journeys, and the adjustable driving position ensures the driver remains fatigue-free during extended trips across state borders.

Technology and Safety Features for Highway Cruising

Standard driver aids such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning reduce driver strain on monotonous highway sections, while the forward collision mitigation system adds an extra safety layer. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for effortless navigation and entertainment.

Is the Mitsubishi ASX good for long road trips

However, the rear parking sensors and reversing camera are particularly useful when navigating tight rest stops or parking at highway service centers.

Mitsubishi ASX Highway Driving Review: Performance, Comfort, and Efficiency in Australia

How does the Mitsubishi ASX perform for highway driving in Australia?

The Mitsubishi ASX performs adequately for highway driving in Australia, offering a balanced combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, and practicality suited to long-distance travel. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 110 kW of power and 197 Nm of torque, which provides sufficient acceleration for merging onto highways and maintaining cruising speeds around 100-110 km/h. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps keep engine revs low during steady cruising, contributing to a quiet cabin experience. However, the ASX’s relatively soft suspension and higher ground clearance (190 mm) can lead to some body roll during lane changes or curves, though it absorbs road imperfections like rough asphalt well. Fuel consumption on highways typically averages around 6.5-7.5 L/100 km, making it cost-effective for long trips. The vehicle’s compact dimensions and decent visibility aid in navigating tighter highway sections, though its smaller fuel tank (63 liters) may require more frequent stops on very long journeys.

Highway Comfort and Ride Quality

Suspension Tuning and Cabin Refinement

The Mitsubishi ASX’s suspension is tuned for comfort over sportiness, which translates to a smooth ride on Australian highways, particularly on straight stretches. The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear setup effectively dampen vibrations from uneven surfaces like expansion joints or minor potholes. However, at higher speeds or during crosswinds, the taller body style can cause noticeable sway, requiring slight steering corrections. The cabin remains quiet at 100 km/h, with minimal wind noise due to good aerodynamics, though tire noise may increase on coarse-chip surfaces common in rural areas.

1. The soft suspension prioritizes passenger comfort, minimizing fatigue on trips over 3 hours.
2. Body roll is present during sharp lane changes, which may feel unsettling for some drivers.
3. Seat support is adequate for shorter drives but lacks lumbar adjustment for extended journeys.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy on Long Distances

Powertrain Characteristics and Efficiency

The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine in the ASX delivers steady power, but overtaking on two-lane highways requires planning due to modest torque output. The CVT simulates stepped gear changes under hard acceleration, reducing droning sensations. On flat terrain, the ASX maintains 110 km/h effortlessly, but on steeper grades like those found in the Great Dividing Range, engine revs climb and power delivery becomes less responsive. Fuel economy is a strong point, with many Australian owners reporting real-world figures near 7.0 L/100 km on highways, helped by the CVT’s ability to keep revs low.

1. Acceleration from 80 to 110 km/h takes around 8 seconds, adequate for safe merging.
2. The fuel tank offers a range of approximately 800-900 km at highway speeds, depending on load.
3. Eco-driving aids like the shift indicator light help optimize fuel usage during cruise.

Highway Safety Features and Driving Assistance

Active Safety Systems and Visibility

Standard highway safety features in the ASX include forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams, which enhance safety on long drives. The lane departure system provides audible alerts but does not offer steering intervention, requiring driver awareness. The high seating position gives a good view over traffic, aiding anticipation of hazards. However, the ASX lacks adaptive cruise control, which is a notable omission for reducing driver fatigue on monotonous highways. Braking performance is reliable, with stable stops from 100 km/h, though the pedal feel can be slightly soft.

1. The blind-spot monitoring system (available on higher trims) alerts drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes.
2. Rear parking sensors and a reversing camera assist during highway exits or rest stops.
3. The vehicle stability control system activates smoothly during sudden maneuvers on wet roads.

What are the most frequently reported issues with the Mitsubishi ASX in Australian highway driving?

The most frequently reported issues with the Mitsubishi ASX in Australian highway driving include inadequate cabin noise insulation, leading to a loud interior at higher speeds; a lack of sufficient power for overtaking and merging, particularly with the base 2.0-liter petrol engine; and a firm, less compliant ride quality that can feel unsettled on rough or uneven highway surfaces. Additionally, owners commonly note the continuously variable transmission (CVT) can cause droning during sustained highway speeds, and the infotainment system may suffer from occasional lag or connectivity problems.

Cabin Noise and Insulation Deficiencies on Highways

Common Complaints About Wind and Road Noise

Many Australian owners report that the Mitsubishi ASX allows excessive levels of wind and road noise to enter the cabin when driving on highways. This is often attributed to insufficient sound deadening materials in the doors, floor, and wheel arches. At speeds above 100 km/h, the noise can become intrusive, making long-distance travel tiring and conversation difficult.

1. Wind noise is frequently noted around the A-pillars and window seals, especially in crosswinds.
2. Road roar from coarse Australian bitumen is distinctly audible inside the cabin.
3. Tire noise from the standard all-season tires is amplified on concrete highways.

Engine Performance and Overtaking Limitations

Power Deficiencies at Highway Speeds

A consistent theme in owner feedback is that the Mitsubishi ASX, particularly with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, struggles to provide adequate acceleration for overtaking on two-lane highways. The engine's 110 kW output is considered adequate for city driving but feels strained when needing to pass slower vehicles at highway speeds, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers or cargo.

1. Overtaking requires significant advance planning due to slow throttle response when going from 80 km/h to 110 km/h.
2. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) often holds high engine revs during overtaking, creating a droning noise without proportional forward momentum.
3. Hill climbs on highways further expose the lack of low-end torque, causing the engine to labor.

Suspension and Ride Comfort on Uneven Highways

Effect of Firm Tuning on Long-Distance Driving

Owners frequently report that the ASX's suspension setup is tuned too firmly for Australian highway conditions, which often feature undulating surfaces, expansion joints, and patchy repairs. While this firmness aids in handling, it results in a jittery and sometimes harsh ride that transmits minor road imperfections directly to the cabin. Over longer journeys, this can lead to driver and passenger fatigue.

1. The rear suspension tends to become unsettled over repeated sharp bumps, causing a hopping sensation.
2. Crosswinds on open highways further affect stability, requiring constant steering corrections.
3. Seat comfort is also criticized for lacking adequate lumbar support, compounding the effect of the stiff ride over several hours.

How does the Mitsubishi ASX perform for highway driving in Australia?

The Mitsubishi ASX is a compact SUV that offers a balanced highway driving experience in Australia, primarily suited for daily commuting and moderate-distance travel. On Australian highways, the ASX provides adequate performance with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 110 kW of power and 197 Nm of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This setup delivers smooth acceleration for merging and overtaking, though it may feel underpowered when fully loaded or climbing steep gradients at higher speeds. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections well, but the cabin can experience noticeable wind noise at speeds above 100 km/h. Fuel economy on highways averages around 6.5 to 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers, making it relatively efficient for its class. The ASX also features standard safety aids like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, which enhance long-distance travel convenience. However, the interior space is modest, with rear legroom and cargo capacity being tighter than some rivals, which may affect passenger comfort on extended trips. Overall, the ASX performs reliably for highway driving in Australia, but it is best suited for drivers prioritizing affordability and simplicity over outright performance or luxury.

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Fuel Efficiency and Range on Australian Highways

Detailed assessment of fuel consumption and driving range under typical highway conditions

The Mitsubishi ASX demonstrates competitive fuel efficiency for highway driving in Australia, which is a key factor for long-distance trips where refueling stations may be sparse. With a 63-liter fuel tank, the ASX can achieve a highway range of approximately 840 to 970 kilometers, depending on driving habits and load. This efficiency is supported by the CVT, which keeps engine revs low at cruising speeds, and the engine’s stop-start system that reduces fuel waste during brief stops. Real-world tests show that maintaining a steady 110 km/h yields around 6.8 L/100 km, while aggressive acceleration or headwinds can push it closer to 7.8 L/100 km. The ASX requires 91 RON unleaded petrol, which is widely available across Australia, including remote areas. However, its fuel tank is smaller than some larger SUVs, meaning more frequent stops on very long journeys, such as across the Nullarbor. The following points summarize key fuel-related aspects for highway use:

1. Average highway fuel consumption between 6.5 and 7.5 L/100 km under ideal Australian conditions, with variations due to load and terrain.
2. Driving range of up to 970 kilometers on a full tank, suitable for most intercity routes like Sydney to Melbourne without refueling.
3. Fuel type requirement of 91 RON petrol ensures cost-effective and accessible refueling statewide, including rural stations.

Driving Comfort and Cabin Experience at Highway Speeds

Evaluation of noise levels, seat comfort, and ride quality during extended highway journeys

On Australian highways, the Mitsubishi ASX prioritizes ride comfort with a suspension system that effectively dampens bumps and uneven surfaces common on rural roads. The front seats offer decent lumbar support for a compact SUV, though they lack adjustability for taller drivers, which can lead to fatigue on trips over three hours. Noise insulation is a notable drawback, as tire roar and wind noise become pronounced above 100 km/h, especially on coarse-chip asphalt prevalent in regional areas. The cabin layout remains functional with straightforward controls, but the lack of sound-deadening materials means conversations may require raised voices at highway speeds. Air conditioning performs well in hot Australian climates, maintaining consistent temperatures without strain. For rear passengers, the bench seat is firm and offers limited legroom, making it less ideal for adults on long trips. Overall, the ASX provides adequate comfort for solo or couple travelers but falls short for families needing a quieter and more spacious environment.

1. Seat comfort is satisfactory for short to medium trips, but the lack of power lumbar adjustment and limited thigh support may cause discomfort over 400 km.
2. Wind and tire noise levels are moderate to high, particularly on coarse asphalt, diminishing the cabin’s refinement for highway cruising.
3. Ride quality is generally smooth, with the suspension handling Australian highway imperfections like expansion joints and potholes without excessive jolts.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features for Highway Travel

Examination of standard safety technologies and their effectiveness in reducing highway driving risks

The Mitsubishi ASX includes a suite of standard driver assistance technologies that are particularly beneficial for highway driving in Australia, where conditions like fatigue and unexpected hazards are common. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver workload on monotonous stretches. Lane departure warning alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts, but it lacks active lane-keeping assist, requiring manual correction. Forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection works effectively at highway speeds, providing alerts and automatic braking in emergency situations. The vehicle also has a five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2022, reinforcing its structural integrity. However, the absence of blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on base models limits awareness during lane changes on busy highways. These features collectively enhance safety, but the ASX’s smaller size and lower mass mean it may be more vulnerable in collisions with larger vehicles on high-speed roads. The following points detail key safety aspects for highway use:

1. Adaptive cruise control functions smoothly on highways, maintaining set speeds within 30–180 km/h range, but can be hesitant in heavy traffic due to CVT response.
2. Lane departure warning provides audible and visual alerts, though it may trigger false alarms on poorly marked rural roads, reducing usability.
3. Forward collision mitigation works reliably at highway speeds, with early detection reducing the risk of rear-end collisions in typical Australian traffic scenarios.

Is the Mitsubishi ASX a good choice for highway driving in Australia?

The Mitsubishi ASX is a compact SUV that offers a practical and budget-friendly option for highway driving in Australia, but it comes with notable limitations. Its fuel-efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for maintaining highway speeds, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps keep engine noise down during steady cruising. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing minor road imperfections on Australian highways like the Hume or Pacific Highways. However, the ASX falls short in areas such as overtaking performance, with a 0-100 km/h time of around 10.5 seconds, which feels sluggish when merging or passing at high speeds. Additionally, wind noise becomes noticeable at 100 km/h or more, and the interior materials feel dated compared to newer competitors. For drivers prioritizing affordability and reliability over performance or modern features, the ASX can serve as a functional highway vehicle, especially in urban-to-suburban routes, but it may not suit those seeking spirited driving or long-distance comfort.

Performance and Overtaking Capability on Australian Freeways

Engine Output and Highway Merging Dynamics

The Mitsubishi ASX is equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 110 kW and 197 Nm of torque, which is adequate for gentle acceleration but struggles during quick overtakes on two-lane roads or uphill merges. On highways like the M1 in Queensland, the CVT tends to hold high revs during hard acceleration, leading to drone and reduced fuel economy. Overtaking requires careful planning, especially when carrying a full load of passengers or luggage, as the engine lacks low-end torque for rapid power delivery. The ASX's light weight (around 1,350 kg) helps in initial pickup, but its aerodynamics are not optimized for high-speed stability, causing slight float at over 110 km/h.

1. The 0-100 km/h time of 10.5 seconds is one of the slowest in its class, making merging onto highways like Sydney's M2 a cautious process.
2. Top speed is governed at 185 km/h, but sustained driving over 120 km/h causes the engine to feel strained and consumes fuel rapidly, averaging 8.5 L/100 km.
3. Overtaking semi-trailers on rural roads, such as the Newell Highway, requires a clear run of at least 10 seconds to complete a safe pass.

Ride Comfort and Cabin Noise at Highway Speeds

Suspension Tuning and Long-Distance Fatigue

The ASX features a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension that prioritizes comfort over sportiness, soaking up minor undulations on smooth highways like the Great Western Highway. However, on coarse-chip surfaces common in Western Australia, the cabin transmits significant road noise, and the tires generate a constant hum. Wind noise is prominent above 100 km/h due to the boxy design and less effective door seals, which can cause driver fatigue on trips over three hours. The seats offer moderate support, but lack lumbar adjustment, leading to discomfort on longer journeys from Melbourne to Canberra.

1. The suspension handles bumps at low speeds well, but at 110 km/h, it can feel floaty over undulating roads, especially with a light rear load.
2. Cabin noise levels average 68 dB at 100 km/h, which is 2-3 dBs higher than class rivals like the Hyundai Kona, making conversations and music harder to hear.
3. Seat bolstering is minimal, and the lack of telescopic steering adjustment forces taller drivers into an upright position, increasing back strain after two hours.

Fuel Efficiency and Range for Long Australian Trips

Real-World Consumption on Intercity Drives

The Mitsubishi ASX has a 63-litre fuel tank and claims a combined fuel consumption of 7.6 L/100 km, but real-world highway driving often sees figures of 7.0 to 8.0 L/100 km depending on load and speed. At a steady 110 km/h cruise with air conditioning on, the engine's RPM hovers around 2,500, allowing a theoretical range of up to 900 kilometers on a full tank. However, this drops to around 750 kilometers when driving at 120 km/h or in hilly terrain, such as through the Snowy Mountains. The Eco mode helps slightly by dulling throttle response, but it does not significantly improve efficiency at highway speeds compared to normal mode.

1. On a flat highway like the M31 Hume Highway, the ASX returns 7.2 L/100 km, translating to a range of 875 km from the 63L tank.
2. Fuel efficiency deteriorates by up to 15% in strong headwinds or when using the roof rack, common on trips to coastal areas like Byron Bay.
3. The CVT does not lock up at highway speeds, so it maintains higher revs than a conventional automatic, costing an extra 0.5 L/100 km compared to rivals with 8-speed automatics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Mitsubishi ASX perform on Australian highways?

The Mitsubishi ASX provides a competent highway ride, ideal for urban-to-suburban commutes. Its 2.0-liter engine delivers adequate power for merging and maintaining 110 km/h, but acceleration is modest during overtaking. The suspension effectively absorbs minor bumps, though larger road imperfections can feel noticeable. Fuel economy on highways averages around 6.5-7.0 L/100km, making it relatively efficient for its class. Overall, it handles highway cruising without fuss, especially in steady traffic conditions common on Australian freeways.

Is the Mitsubishi ASX comfortable for long highway trips in Australia?

Comfort is acceptable for shorter highway journeys, but longer trips may test patience. The cabin is well laid out with supportive front seats, but rear legroom can be tight for tall passengers. Road noise is moderate at highway speeds, and the ride becomes slightly unsettled on rough country roads. The air conditioning effectively battles Australian heat, and visibility is good for lane changes. For long-distance travel, expect a practical experience rather than a luxurious one, suitable for budget-conscious drivers.

What is the fuel economy of the Mitsubishi ASX on highways?

On Australian highways, the Mitsubishi ASX typically achieves fuel consumption of around 6.5 to 7.0 liters per 100 kilometers under steady driving conditions. This figure is competitive for a compact SUV in its segment, though real-world results may vary based on load, terrain, and driving style. The 2.0-liter petrol engine is not hyper-efficient compared to modern turbocharged rivals, but it offers decent economy for highway commutes. Using cruise control on flat stretches can further optimize fuel usage during long drives.

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How does the Mitsubishi ASX handle overtaking on Australian highways?

Overtaking on two-lane highways requires careful planning due to the ASX’s modest 110 kW engine output. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can feel labored during rapid acceleration, causing engine noise to rise without instant response. However, shifting to manual mode helps maintain revs for better pull at speeds between 80-110 km/h. It is safe for passing slower vehicles on flat roads but struggles on uphill sections. Drivers should allow extra space when merging into fast-moving traffic for confident overtakes.