The Mitsubishi ASX I (facelift 2012) 1.8 DI-D 4×4 represents a significant iteration of Mitsubishi’s compact crossover SUV, produced from 2012 to 2015. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the ASX lineup, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with all-wheel-drive capability, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and versatile vehicle. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, where diesel engines and all-wheel drive systems were highly valued. The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the original ASX, enhancing its appeal in a competitive segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | ASX |
| Generation | ASX I (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 DI-D (114 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp, 75.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 199.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4N13 |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.1 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 416 l (14.69 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1193 l (42.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4295 mm (169.09 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17 96H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the ASX 1.8 DI-D 4×4 is the 4N13 engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output, providing 114 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2250 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for enhanced performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, chosen for its balance of fuel economy and driver engagement. The engine is known for its relatively robust construction and ability to handle moderate tuning.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8 DI-D 4×4 offered a practical and capable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, the engine’s torque output provided adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway cruising. The 0-60 mph time of around 10.1 seconds reflects this. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, and the all-wheel-drive system enhanced traction in various conditions, particularly on slippery surfaces. Compared to the petrol-powered ASX variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy. However, it lacked the responsiveness of the higher-output engines available in the range. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine could feel slightly strained when accelerating quickly or climbing steep hills.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 DI-D 4×4 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a sunroof, rear parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The ASX I utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, with ABS providing enhanced stopping power and stability. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DI-D 4×4 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient crossover. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and capable all-wheel-drive system. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Compared to other diesel-powered crossovers in its class, such as the Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan, the ASX offered a competitive price point and a generous level of standard equipment. Fuel economy was a strong point, consistently achieving around 45-55 mpg in real-world driving conditions.
Legacy
The 4N13 engine, found in the ASX 1.8 DI-D, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on vehicles that primarily see short-trip driving. On the used car market, the ASX 1.8 DI-D 4×4 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical all-wheel-drive crossover. Its robust construction and relatively simple mechanicals make it a relatively affordable vehicle to maintain, although regular servicing is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The model helped establish Mitsubishi as a key player in the European crossover segment.
