Nigeria dithers as SA Mitsubishi launches affordable entry model

BY MIKE OCHONMA

In a swift attempt to keep it fresh through the years, the ASX model manufactured by the Mitsubishi Motor Corporation has given numerous facelifts to a number of its models in South Africa ahead of Nigeria, being two of the largest automobile market in Africa by introducing a new ES entry-level specification level.

Specifically, the LS comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, fabric seats, manual air conditioning, three airbags, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel, electric windows, auto headlights and wipers as well as a conventional FM radio with CD player and Bluetooth connectivity. Customers can however opt for a touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

As with all, Mitsubishi ASX models, the front wheels are powered by a 2.-litre MIVEC normally aspirated engine that produces 110kW and 197Nm, and claims a braked towing capacity of 1260 kg for the manual and 750kg for the CVT. All models come with a three-year/100 000km warranty and three-year/60 000km service plan, with intervals set at 15,000km.

While the number of units of the models sold in Nigeria cannot be determined as at the time of filing this report, Mitsubishi SA’s marketing manager Jeffrey Allison said, “The ASX was first introduced in South Africa in 2011 and since its launch, over 9300 units have been sold, making it the most successful model for the brand in the last decade. It has also opened the Mitsubishi brand to younger families seeking access to the legendary Mitsubishi way of life,” said.

The addition of the two ES models with revised specification levels now places this lifestyle within reach of buyers for whom affordability is a greater consideration.