Mitsubishi ASX

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What is it?
Mitsubishi ASX

What's special about it?
ASX stands for Active Sports Crossover. Looking a lot like Mitsubishi's current Montero sport-utility vehicle, the ASX concept is meant to be a car for all people in all seasons. Propelled by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve, inline four-cylinder DOHC direct-injection engine and mated to a four-speed automatic with manushifter capability, the ASX should produce decent thrust for most applications. Its unibody structure, full-time four-wheel drive, 17-inch wheels and 9.6-inch ground clearance should make it a competent off-roader and snow vehicle. Its large greenhouse with hidden B- and C-pillars, luxury leather seating for five and advanced communication and information systems (including navigation systems, a rearview camera and driver information center) should also make it a comfortable city cruiser. Mitsubishi plans to modify the ASX for use in the Japanese market and begin sales there in 2001. North American sales should begin some time in the following months.

Why should you care?
Mitsubishi is riding a high after its second-straight record-breaking sales year in the United States. The automaker sold 315,000 units in 2001, marking a 65 percent gain in unit sales over the last two years. Sales for all six models in its lineup have improved, including a 322 percent increase in sales of the Montero sport-ute (probably due to Mitsubishi's win at the 2000 Paris-Dakar Rally.) To keep up with this demand, it's increasing its dealer network by 10 percent. In addition, the company now has a business alliance with DaimlerChrysler, which the Mitsubishi executive feels is worth millions in product development and purchasing power. Fueled by this recent success, the company has pledged to produce a new model every year for the next five years. Judging by this year's offerings, its success should continue.