2023 Mitsubishi ASX: All-new small SUV reportedly around the corner

The lengthy run of the first-generation Mitsubishi ASX could soon come to an end, with new reports suggesting an all-new model will debut in around 18 months' time.

In an interview with Czech publication Auto.cz, the public relations manager of Mitsubishi Czechia provided our best indication yet that a second-generation version is near, saying “the absolute positive is that we already know that the new ASX will arrive in early 2023."

6

Above: the current Mitsubishi ASX

The representative also revealed production of the current model has ended for the Czech Republic, with it no longer featured on Mitsubishi’s price lists or local online configurator.

However, the ASX will remain on sale in Australia until a new-generation version touches down.

The brand recently invested in side-impact bar modifications for the hugely popular small SUV to meet strict new local crash safety regulations, which came into force on November 1, 2021.

6

While details are largely unknown, Mitsubishi previously announced it will "procure OEM-model vehicles from Renault ... which already meet regulatory requirements,” with the new ASX likely to become a rebadged Captur in Europe, based on the CMF-B architecture – potentially catering for a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain.

However, this arrangement is likely to remain exclusive to the Old Continent, where tough emissions standards have caused vehicle manufacturers to scale back product ranges and take up badge engineering (including obtaining models from rivals).

6

While plans for markets outside of Europe are less clear, designer Theottle has imagined the next-generation ASX with a pure design – albeit with underpinnings shared with other small SUVs in the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.

Visually, the ASX is expected to follow the same path as the all-new Outlander and facelifted Eclipse Cross, which both debuted an updated iteration of the marque’s ‘Dynamic Shield’ design language.

The rendering is also reminiscent of the Indonesian-market Xpander MPV, with slimmer LED daytime running lamps and a T-shaped headlight cluster, as well as a lower skid plate with integrated fog lamps.

6

At the other end, the illustration depicts a boxier rear-end with tail-lights inspired by the Eclipse Cross, with the side profile also influenced by the slightly larger SUV.

If the new Outlander is a good guide, the 2023 ASX could pick up a drastically improved cabin – likely dominated by a larger 9-inch infotainment system featuring wireless smartphone mirroring, plus a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and quilted leather upholstery.

Stay tuned to Wheels as more information surrounding the next-generation Mitsubishi ASX comes to hand in the coming weeks and months.