Comprehensive review — the new 2nd Gen Mitsubishi ASX – can it tow?

Comprehensive review — the new 2^nd Gen Mitsubishi ASX – can it tow?

Mitsubishi’s newest ASX is largely a rebadged Renault small SUV (the Captur family / CMF-B cars) rather than an in-house Mitsubishi. That brings strong packaging, modern powertrains and excellent safety/tech for the class. If you want a compact, efficient, well-equipped small SUV it’s a sensible choice.

What it is (platform, where it’s built)

• The new ASX is built on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance CMF-B modular platform and is supplied by Renault. Mitsubishi didn’t design a unique architecture — it’s the Alliance’s compact-SUV architecture.
• Practically this means the ASX shares body, core structure, many interior bits and the powertrain palette with Renault’s Captur/Captur II family (and related Alliance small cars).

Design & exterior

• Mitsubishi gives the ASX a distinct front face and brand styling cues (badging, grille, bumpers), but the silhouette, proportions and rear design are very recognisable as Renault-family. The facelifted ASX received updated front/rear treatments to better align with Mitsubishi’s market image - the changes are modest but noticeable at the front.

Interior & practicality

• The interior packaging is one of the ASX’s strengths: good space for a compact SUV, flexible rear seats and a sensible boot for the. Materials and ergonomics are modern — the ASX often uses Renault’s infotainment and switchgear, sometimes with Mitsubishi-specific trims (e.g., leatherette options). Expect the same balance of useful storage and a family-friendly layout as you’d get from the Renault twin.

Powertrains and efficiency

• The ASX lineup includes a range of small petrol engines plus mild-hybrid, full hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants — the same powertrain family Renault offers on its equivalents. That gives buyers a choice between efficient city-focused hybrids and conventional petrols. Mitsubishi has leveraged Renault’s electrified technology, including PHEV options in markets where Renault supplies them.

Driving impressions & handling

• Because the ASX is Renault-based, the driving character skews toward comfort and composed urban driving rather than the firmer, sporty feel some expect from certain Japanese rivals. Steering and ride tuning are aimed at mainstream consumers: predictable, comfortable and easy to live with in traffic and on motorways. Reviewers note its refinement and everyday usability, though enthusiasts may find the steering and chassis tuning less engaging than some rivals.

Safety & tech

• The ASX benefits from Renault’s recent safety and connectivity stack: modern driver-assists (lane keep, adaptive cruise, automatic emergency braking), updated connectivity and a clearer instrument/screen layout. Safety ratings will depend on the exact spec and testing region, but the platform has been engineered to meet current safety expectations.

Trim, options and value

• Mitsubishi positions the ASX slightly upmarket compared with the Captur in some regions (different trim lists, extra features or Mitsubishi-specific options), which can push the price a bit higher than the Renault equivalent. That’s a trade-off: you get Mitsubishi dealer network, brand warranty/aftercare and specific styling, but at a price premium in some markets.

Pros & cons

• Modern, efficient powertrains (including hybrid/PHEV options).
• Spacious, practical interior for the class.
• Up-to-date safety and connectivity thanks to Renault’s development. Cons

• Not a “pure” Mitsubishi engineering experience — many parts and driving character are Renault. If brand identity matters to you, that’s relevant.
• Enthusiasts may prefer more dynamically tuned rivals for sharper handling.

Towing capacity

Note: “Braked” means the trailer has its own brakes; “unbraked” means it doesn’t. Always check the owner’s manual for particular trim/engine variants as ratings might slightly vary (for example depending on whether it has CVT or manual, etc.), but broadly all variants are rated the same in this case (FWD variants)

Real-world performance & review impressions for towing

Keep in mind this is a small SUV / crossover rather than a large SUV

Pros / strengths:

1. Adequate for light towing needs
   For typical towing tasks like small trailers, caravans, boats, or gear trailers in the 1,000-1,300 kg range, the ASX is capable. It delivers the rated 1,500 kg braked towing capacity, which is good for its class.
2. Reasonable torque and power for its class
   Depending on engine variant, there are 2.0 L petrol (≈ 110 kW / 197 Nm) and a stronger 2.4 L petrol (≈ 123 kW / 222 Nm) options. While not huge torque (as you’d get from a diesel or SUV with stronger engine), it’s sufficient for light towing and giving acceptable performance up hills when lightly loaded.
3. Good base equipment and vehicle mass
   The ASX’s gross vehicle mass and payload are reasonable, giving you some leeway before hitting limits. Excellent availability of safety / stability features help when towing

Limitations / what to watch out for:

1. Not suited for heavy towing or large trailers
   Above 1,300 kg braked or high unbraked loads, performance will drop off. Because of its relatively moderate torque, CVT transmission (in many variants), and FWD layout, towing heavy loads will strain the vehicle (especially uphill, in hot conditions, or long continuous towing).
2. Acceleration / overtaking when towing
   With a full braked load, the ASX will feel sluggish, particularly from low revs or on inclines. Passing / merging may require more anticipation.
3. Cooling, gearing, durability concerns
   While not reported widely yet, continuous heavy towing puts stress on the drivetrain, brakes, transmission. Heat buildup in transmission (especially CVT) can degrade efficiency and durability. Probably more of a concern if you frequently tow close to the maximum limit.
4. Payload trade-offs
   Carrying passengers + load in addition to trailer can reduce what you can tow. If you max out the payload (people, gear) you reduce allowance for trailer + hitch + load. You’ll also want to check permissible tow-ball download (approx. 100 kg) so ensure trailer & hitch don’t overload rear or front axle.
5. Handling & braking dynamics
   Heavier trailer mass changes braking distances, steering feel (more understeer in corners, more rear squat), and can amplify sway if trailer not loaded / balanced.

Overall verdict (for towing)

The 2025 Mitsubishi ASX is good for moderate towing duties — light trailers, small caravans, boats, utility trailers — up to about 1,500 kg (braked). If your towing requires are modest, and you don’t do long uphill trips or heavy loads often, it will perform adequately and safely.

Who should buy the ASX?

Buy the ASX if:

• You want a modern compact SUV with hybrid and PHEV choices, comfortable ride and strong practicality, and you prefer Mitsubishi’s dealer network or styling tweaks.

Bottom line / verdict

The new Mitsubishi ASX is a pragmatic, well-rounded compact SUV that capitalises on Renault’s small-car engineering. It offers modern electrified powertrains, competitive space and safety tech — essentially the Captur underneath with Mitsubishi cosmetics and dealer support. That makes it a smart, low-risk option in the segment, but not a choice for buyers seeking a unique Mitsubishi driving personality or a dramatically different platform. Compare specs and prices carefully with the Renault twin: you’ll often be choosing between near-identical hardware with different badging, trim and retail terms

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