The Mitsubishi ASX II 1.6 (159 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid Multi-Mode is a compact crossover SUV introduced in March 2023 as part of the second generation ASX lineup. Positioned as a technologically advanced and fuel-efficient option within the range, it represents Mitsubishi’s commitment to electrification. Production continued until June 2024. This variant utilizes a plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and battery pack, offering both all-electric driving capability and the extended range of a conventional hybrid. It primarily targets European and Asian markets where demand for fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious vehicles is high.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | ASX |
| Generation | ASX II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (159 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid Multi-Mode |
| Start of production | March, 2023 |
| End of production | June, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.3-1.4 l/100 km (180.9 – 168 US mpg, 217.3 – 201.8 UK mpg, 76.9 – 71.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 29-32 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 11.1 kg/Nm, 90.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 10.5 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 345 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 47-49 km (29.2 – 30.45 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 13.2-13.5 kWh/100 km (21.24 – 21.73 kWh/100 mi, 159 – 155 MPGe, 7.6 – 7.4 km/kWh, 4.7 – 4.6 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 67 Hp |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 159 Hp |
| Power | 92 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 144 Nm @ 3200 rpm (106.21 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4M 630 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1596-1616 kg (3518.58 – 3562.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 444-464 kg (978.85 – 1022.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 265-379 l (9.36 – 13.38 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1118 l (39.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 39 l (10.3 US gal | 8.58 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4227 mm (166.42 in.) |
| Width | 1797 mm (70.75 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2003 mm (78.86 in.) |
| Height | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2639 mm (103.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 876 mm (34.49 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 712 mm (28.03 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 166 mm (6.54 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Multi-Mode |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Mitsubishi ASX II 1.6 PHEV utilizes a powertrain centered around the 4-cylinder H4M 630 engine, displacing 1.6 liters. This engine produces 92 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 144 Nm (106.21 lb-ft) of torque at 3200 rpm. It’s a naturally aspirated engine employing multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The engine is paired with a 67-horsepower electric motor integrated into the transmission. The combined system output reaches 159 horsepower. The 10.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the rear seats and floor, provides an all-electric range of 47-49 km (29.2 – 30.45 miles) according to WLTP standards. The transmission is a 6-speed automatic, specifically a Multi-Mode transmission designed to seamlessly blend power from both the engine and electric motor.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L PHEV ASX offers a noticeably different driving experience compared to its gasoline-only counterparts. In pure electric mode, acceleration is brisk and quiet, suitable for urban driving. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally smooth, though some engine noise is present during harder acceleration. The Multi-Mode transmission is tuned for efficiency, prioritizing smooth shifts over sporty responsiveness. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.6 seconds is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly exciting performance. Compared to higher-powered ASX variants, this version prioritizes fuel economy and reduced emissions over outright speed. The added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling, making it feel less agile than lighter models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 PHEV variant of the ASX II typically came with a generous level of standard equipment. This included features like automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), keyless entry, and a suite of safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels offered additional features like a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. The specific trim levels and available options varied slightly depending on the market.
Chassis & Braking
The ASX II utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear features an independent multi-link suspension. This configuration aims to balance ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, providing a relatively soft ride quality. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi ASX II 1.6 PHEV was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and all-electric range. It was positioned as a practical and environmentally friendly option in the compact crossover segment. Compared to the gasoline-powered ASX variants, the PHEV offered significantly better fuel economy, particularly for drivers who frequently commute short distances and can take advantage of the electric-only mode. However, the PHEV version carried a higher price tag. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the powertrain proving to be relatively robust. Competitors in this segment included the Toyota C-HR, Kia Niro PHEV, and Hyundai Kona Electric.
Legacy
The Mitsubishi ASX II 1.6 PHEV represents a significant step in Mitsubishi’s electrification strategy. While production ended in June 2024, the powertrain technology and design elements are likely to influence future Mitsubishi models. On the used car market, these models are becoming increasingly popular due to their fuel efficiency and low running costs. The long-term reliability of the battery pack remains a key consideration for potential buyers, but Mitsubishi offers a warranty on the battery, providing some peace of mind. The 1.6 PHEV variant has established itself as a viable and attractive option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious compact crossover.
