- Four-model ASX VR-e range arrives in December from $57,990.
- GSR AWD delivers 342kW/700Nm and 0–100km/h in 3.9sec.
- Mitsubishi Connect smartphone technology standard.
The Mitsubishi ASX VR-e will arrive in New Zealand in four different models from December.
The ASX VR-e is the Kiwi-market version of the much-talked-about Model B, a car built in Taiwan by Foxtron (a subsidiary of iPhone manufacturer Foxtronn) and designed by Pininfarina.
The range includes three rear-wheel drive versions: the LS from $57,990, the XLS at $63,990 and the Exceed from $67,990. There's also a range-topping dual-motor GSR AWD at $72,990.
From XLS upwards, specification includes heated and ventilated front seats, an eight-way power driver's seat with memory, four-way power passenger seat, ambient interior lighting and Multi Around View Monitor.
Remote Parking Assist allows the driver to move the vehicle forwards or backwards from outside the car using the key fob.
The Exceed and GSR add 20-inch two-tone alloy wheels, panoramic glass roof, hands-free power tailgate and upgraded 12-speaker audio system. GSR also features a microsuede seat trim with blue stitching and two-tone exterior colour options.
All ASX VR-e models use a 57.7kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, with the rear-wheel drive LS delivering up to 403km range (WLTP). XLS offers up to 398km and Exceed up to 380km, while the high-performance AWD GSR is rated at 328km.
The three rear-wheel drive models produce 171kW/350Nm, with acceleration from 0–100km/h in 6.8 seconds. The GSR delivers significantly more performance, with a second electric motor and AWD, doubling maximum output to 342kW/700Nm and 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds. It's the fastest Mitsubishi ever sold in NZ.
ASX VR-e supports DC fast charging at up to 134kW. There are five levels of regenerative braking and a One Pedal mode.
Vehicle to Load (V2L) capability also allows the ASX VR-e battery to provide up to 3.6kW of external power through an accessory adapter.
ASX VR-e will be the first Mitsubishi in New Zealand to introduce Mitsubishi Connect. Using a phone app, owners can remotely check charging status and remaining EV range, view and export charging history, pre-condition the cabin, locate the vehicle and check information including tyre pressures and vehicle
warnings.
Remote functions also include door locking and unlocking, window operation, and horn and light activation. The live stattus of the car also enables over the air (OTA) updates.
ASX VR-e also features eCall, providing an automatic connection to an emergency call centre following events such as airbag deployment, as well as manual SOS functionality.
Mitsubishi's Diamond Advantage Warranty comprises a 5-year/130,000km new vehicle warranty and 10-year/160,000km powertrain warranty; the traction battery alone is covered for 8 years/160,000km.
