Mitsubishi Motors South Africa Archives - Heels & Horsepower Magazine

Mistubishi’s Popular ASX Range Gets Two New Siblings

vuyi on January 20, 2022

By H&H Admin

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) is making its range of sought-after vehicles accessible to a wider customer base with the introduction of a new ES specification level for the popular ASX. Slotting in below the two existing models, and badged as LS variants, there are now two new ES derivatives in either manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The ASX ES models cater to customers who put a premium on value for money but demand a proven crossover SUV with the best possible combination of attractive design, advanced technology, spaciousness, fuel economy and competitive pricing.

“The ASX was first introduced in South Africa in 2011 and since its launch, over 9300 units have been sold in South Africa, making it the most successful model for the brand in the last decade. The ASX has also opened the Mitsubishi brand to younger families seeking access to the legendary Mitsubishi way of life. 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,” explains Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at MMSA.

Apart from featuring the same powertrain combinations as the LS models, the ES additions boast the same striking exterior styling, spacious interior, upgraded seats and advanced mechanics. These include

Exterior

Key exterior features include:
LED headlights
LED daytime running lights (DRL),
LED fog lamps
electrically adjustable foldaway mirrors
LED brake lights,
LED taillights,
LED reverse lights
Rear spoiler with a high-mounted stop lamp

Interior

Electric windows all round
Fabric upholstery
Manual air-conditioning.
Radio/CD player
Touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay (Android Auto is available as an option).
USB and accessory sockets
Bluetooth connectivity with hands-free voice control
Cruise control

Performance

The new ES models use the same engine as their LS siblings, being Mitsubishi’s 2.0L MIVEC aluminium powerplant, which offers 110 kW at 6 000 r/min and peak torque of 197 Nm at 4 200 r/min.

As with the LS specification level, the ES is available with a five-speed manual transmission or CVT.

The ASX boasts a towing capacity of 1 260 kg (braked) for the manual transmission and 750 kg for the CVT (unbraked), making it a great getaway partner for families who seek adventure outside of the city.

Safety

As with all Mitsubishi products, safety features abound in ASX ES models.

These include hill start assist (HSA) and active stability and traction control (ASTC), as well as anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake assist (BAS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).

Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction, which provides superior all-direction collision safety design, is supplemented by side impact protection beams, a collapsible steering column, brake pedal recession protection and whiplash injury reduction seats to ensure optimal occupant safety.

Driver, passenger and knee airbags as well as ISOFIX child seat anchor points are also standard as part of the package.

ASX ES models also boast rear park distance control and a keyless operating system with a unique smart key that works within a 70 cm radius from the vehicle for easy locking and unlocking.

Once inside, the driver can start the engine with the simple touch of a button.

Warranty and service

The ASX range is covered by Mitsubishi’s three-year/100 000 km manufacturer warranty, a three-year /60 000 km service plan and three-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km or once a year.

“The ASX has proven itself to be a youthful, urbanised crossover SUV for those who appreciate quality, capability, practicality and versatility in a vehicle. With the introduction of the ES models, more South Africans will now be able to benefit from Mitsubishi’s impressive SUV heritage and unrivalled reputation, while enjoying enhanced affordability and value for money,” concluded Allison.

Pricing


ASX 2.0 ES Manual	R 369 995
ASX 2.0 ES CVT	R 389 995
ASX 2.0 LS Manual	R 419 995
ASX 2.0 LS CVT	R 439 995

Ubuntu Adventure 2021: Day 1 From Jozi to the Dolphin Coast

vuyi on October 14, 2021

by Vuyi Mpofu

Setting off at the crack of dawn in the Mitsubishi Xpander CVT, a 7-seater MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) the group drove in convoy towards Pietermaritzburg. The Xpander could easily have carried the entire group’s luggage thanks to its 3rd rows of seats; which, when laid flat, increases the luggage area by a whopping 1.77m. Fortunately, our other vehicle was the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, which has a smaller boot; but given the size of some of the accompanying journalists suitcases, I can safely say that the Xpander provides ample space for a medium-sized family’s luggage.

With ample legroom for front and rear seat passengers, the 275km trek to our first rest-stop in Harrismith was comfortable and smooth. The Xpander’s 45-litre fuel tank, with a claimed fuel consumption rate of 7.0L/100km pulled up to the fuel pump with just under half a tank of fuel and a further approximately 320kms worth of fuel left in it. Our breakfast venue was 200km away and while I was confident that the Xpander could easily make the stretch, we filled up the tank because the group wasn’t in the mood to cut it fine.

On the other hand, when the Eclipse Cross, with its substantially bigger 63-litre fuel reservoir reached the petrol station, its gauge hovered just below the three-quarter mark. I won the argument against refuelling the Eclipse Cross and we before long, we were back on the road.

KwaNogqaza, aka Howick Falls

With the sun peeping over the horizon, we arrived at Howick Falls, a geographical gem adjoining the centre of the small town.

Also known as KwaNogqaza which means ‘the ‘place of the tall one’, the waterfall cascades into a churning pool of water, 95-metre below. The waterfall is regarded with more than a dash of superstition by locals because legend has it that the Falls and surrounding area is sacred space; inhibited by the spirits of ancestors of the Africans who inhabited the area as far back as the 19^thcentury. Folklore also has it that a giant snake-like creature lives in the depth of the waters.

The view from the top of the Falls is one to behold. Inhaling the fresh air and listening to the sounds of the awakening birds against the backdrop of the thundering waters, we let out a collective sigh of appreciation for the moment.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

Next, we travelled a short 9km to the most important historical landmark of our trip; the site where the late former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela was arrested on 5 August 1962.

Tata Mandela had been travelling on the R103, disguised as the chauffeur of the car he was driving at the time of his arrest. The Apartheid police had been hunting for him for 17 months prior to his capture and was apprehended as he drove past what is now the Nelson Mandela Capture site.

The Capture Site not only commemorates this significant moment in history with a cultural and historical exhibition, it’s also has a world renowned sculpture. The late Nelson Mandela spent the next 27 years of his life in prison, awakening the consciousness of South Africans and the world to the inequalities and unfair treatment of people in our country; a battle which culminated in the first non-racial democratic election held on 27 April 1994.

Without a doubt the Nelson Mandela Capture Site is a must-see place for anyone with a desire to learn the history of our nation and how the purpose and sacrifice of one man has so greatly shaped our country.

KwaZulu-Natal Museum

Leaving Howick, the Adventurers headed to Pietermaritzburg to visit the Natal Museum – one of South Africa’s five national museums.

Set in a building which dates back to the early 1900s, the KwaZulu-Natal museum is dedicated to increasing understanding of the history of mankind in South-Eastern Africa and of the Natural World, through the collection, study and display of real objects. The Museum opened its doors on 30 November 1904 and is now home to several of South Africa’s most important heritage collections.

The collections are of international renown and feature regional archaeology, African cultural products, European settler history, seashells, insects and other forms of animal life. The KwaZulu-Natal Museum is proud to be the custodian of one of the most important collections of Zulu craft objects. It also boasts a room dedicated to KwaZulu-Natal history, including a reconstruction of a Victorian street, complete with shops and period homes.

The visit to the museum is yet another must-see place as it clearly illustrates how the various races and cultures of South Africa have co-existed alongside one another over generations.

CMH Mitsubishi Ballito

Leaving Pietermaritzburg, the we drove further down the N3, headed to the Dolphin Coast. There we met newly appointed Dealer Principal Nathi Mhlongo, who heads up CMH Mitsubishi Ballito*.

CMH Mitsubishi Ballito is more than a dealership; rather, it is the embodiment of motoring lifestyle, offering its guests and customers a barbershop, nail & beauty salon and restaurant.

Over a hearty lunch, Nathi Mhlongo interacted easily with the media on topics ranging from his rise within the CMH group, becoming a Dealer Principal, the history of the CMH and Mitsubishi brands in South Africa and a few of his plans for the dealership’s growth, impact and relevance to its target market.

*CMH Mitsubishi Ballito is one of 5 newly opened Mitsubishi dealerships. The other 4 are Mitsubishi Motors Zambezi in Pretoria and CMH Mitsubishi Midrand (Gauteng), Morgan Mitsubishi Bethlehem (Free State) and Mitsubishi Motors Paarl (Western Cape).

It had been a long but fun and informative day but we still had a further 210km to our accommodation for the night – Hluhluwe Game Reserve. The drive to the Reserve provided more excitement than anyone could have anticipated but I’ll share that story for Day 2 of Ubuntu Adventure 2021.

Vehicle Pricing:

Xpander 1.5L manual: R299,995
Xpander 1.5L automatic: R319,995
Eclipse Cross – 2.0L GLS CVT 4×2: R459 995
Eclipse Cross – 1.5L GLS CVT 4×2: R499 995

Pricing includes a three-year/100,000km manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year/30,000km service plan1

Mitsubishi Motors and AmaZulu Football Club enter into fan and customer focused partnership

vuyi on September 8, 2021

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) and Durban-based Amazulu Football Club (FC), have entered into a partnership that will create a sustainable value proposition for both brands.

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) and Durban-based Amazulu Football Club (FC), affectionately known as Usuthu, have entered into a partnership that will offer football fans exclusive offers and create a sustainable value proposition for both brands.

It has been proven time and again that sport has the magical ability to unite people, not only in South Africa, but also worldwide. It creates friendships, promotes tourism within and outside South Africa’s borders, and thereby growing economies.

…following a great season, we are happy to align with AmaZulu FC, to allow both brands to continue to grow and flourish

– Thato Magasa, managing director, Mitsubishi Motors South Africa

Originally established as Zulu Royals, Usuthu was formed in 1932 and boasted a membership of approximately 1 million before the end of the 2020/21 season, and it aims to reach more than 5 million by 2032. In October 2020, the club was acquired by Zungu Investments Company (ZICO).

AmaZulu sees the partnership between us and Mitsubishi Motors as the marriage of the aspirational and adventurous brands

– Sandile Zungu, president of AmaZulu FC

“Mitsubishi recognises the power and popularity of sport and following a great season, we are happy to align with AmaZulu FC, to allow both brands to continue to grow and flourish,” said Thato Magasa, managing director of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa.

“AmaZulu FC wants to conquer the continent as well as at home. This is akin to Mitsubishi vehicles conquering outdoors and in urban terrains. AmaZulu sees the partnership between us and Mitsubishi Motors as the marriage of the aspirational and adventurous brands. We are very excited,” commented Sandile Zungu, president of AmaZulu FC.

“There is a strong synergy between Mitsubishi and AmaZulu FC,” said Jeffrey Allison, general manager of marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa. “The club has a strong reputation for being fresh, agile and trustworthy, with strong ties to the community. These are all traits that Mitsubishi identifies with and is known for, so we believe the partnership will be a fruitful one for both brands.

“Usuthu has ambitious plans for their centenary in 2032, including becoming football warriors on the continent. With resilience and relentless passion, our partnership will set our brands on a course to achieve unprecedent success,” said Allison.

Added Magasa: “Our ultimate goal is not only commercial, but to also increase societal benefits for all parties. We are convinced this partnership will go a long way towards making a difference in the communities we operate in as more people get to experience the brand for themselves.”

NEW ON THE TARMAC: Meet the all-new Mitsubishi Xpander; a new breed of lifestyle-oriented MPV

vuyi on June 28, 2021

Mitsubishi’s all-new seven-seater Xpander is set to take the highly competitive South African market by storm.

Combining the traditional versatility and practicality of a multipurpose vehicle (MPV) with the rugged and sporty looks of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV), Mitsubishi’s all-new seven-seater Xpander is set to take the highly competitive South African market by storm.

“As the name suggests, the much anticipated Xpander is all about broadening one’s horizons, whether that be in terms of lifestyle choices, or family dynamics,” explains Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). “With the introduction of this very exciting addition to our line-up, we hope to strengthen our positions in both the MPV and compact SUV segments of the local market.”

The interior of the new Xpander might be all MPV, but the exterior screams SUV, so it’s equally well suited to everyday commuting, family road trips, and leisure activities. In addition, its stylish ruggedness and practicality mean you can take on a variety of terrains in confidence, without having to compromise on comfort.

There are two models in the local line-up. Both feature a 1.5-litre engine and the main difference between the two is the use of either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Exterior – a striking first impression

With sporty alloy wheels – 15-inch on the manual model and 16-inch of the automatic derivative – and wide flared fenders, the Xpander portrays toughness and power from the first glance. Crystal clear headlights, daytime running lights, and L-illuminated LED taillights that extend onto the tailgate add to the overall look.

The Xpander’s higher ground clearance of 205 mm is another feature that is immediately noticeable and emphasizes its sporty, but practical character.

Interior – ‘Omotenashi’ in every detail

Mitsubishi strongly believes in the principle of ‘Omotenashi’ – a Japanese word that captures the way in which Japanese hosts pay attention to detail and anticipate the needs of their guests. This approach is evident in the cabin of the all-new Xpander, which provides ample space for up to seven adults to travel in comfort and style.

The flexible seating can be configured to suit a variety of needs, ranging from carrying passengers and luggage to transporting lifestyle-focused items. The second-and third-row seats have a 60/40 split, while the seats of the third row can be folded completely flat and stowed to create additional space in the cargo area. The latter also features a floor box with a lid for the safe storage of smaller items.

Creature comforts – features to make your passengers comfy

Occupant comfort is further enhanced through full automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, electric windows all round, USB port in the front, 120 Watt power sockets to supply every row of seating, and clever storage compartments under the seats to ensure that personal items are out of the way but within easy reach.

Driver comfort is ensured through a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication and a multi-information display. The rear-view camera has a high resolution that delivers optimal visibility and a wide field of vision.

The all-new Xpander is powered by a 1.5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine. This spirited powerplant features Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system and ECI multipoint fuel injection and pushes out 77 kW at 6 000 r/min, with 141 Nm of peak torque on tap at 4 000 r/min.

With a fuel tank of 45 litres, the average fuel consumption in a combined cycle is 6.9 litres/100 km for the manual model and 7.0 litres/100 km for the automatic derivative.

Safety – technology where it’s needed most

Befitting its status as a people carrier, the all-new Xpander features a range of innovative safety features as standard. Designed to protect not only the driver and passengers but other road users as well, these include airbags for the driver and front passenger, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), as well as an impact-absorbing structure at the front-end of the vehicle. Additional safety for young occupants is provided through ISOFIX child seat anchors.

The Xpander also benefits from coming-home and welcome lights which enhance its overall safety, security, and practicality.

Warranty and service – added peace of mind

The new Mitsubishi Xpander is covered by a three-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year/30 000 km service plan. The price also includes five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km/1 Year whichever comes first.

Pricing

Xpander 1.5L M/T: R299 995

Xpander 1.5L A/T: R319 995

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa appoints new MD

vuyi on June 22, 2021

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Thato Magasa as its new Managing Director. Magasa succeeds Pedro Pereira, who had been in the role since 2015.

The new Mitsubishi MD is no stranger to the automotive industry and has worked in numerous roles within the Motus Group since he first joined the company in 2009.

Following a short break in 2012, he returned to the Motus Group holding various roles at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, including that of Operations Manager, and then moved to another senior role within the Motus Group – this time at Renault South Africa.

I am highly passionate about the continuous development of people towards the achievement of organizational goals.
– Thato Magasa, Managing Director, Mitsubishi Motors South Africa

“Having spent a large part of my career working at challenger brands, I have always found that it is undoubtedly the people within the organization who make the difference,” Thato Magasa says.

“I am highly passionate about the continuous development of people towards the achievement of organizational goals. Our end goal is to offer a consistently high-quality retail and ownership experience of our vehicles, which will be heavily reliant on our people – both within Mitsubishi Motors SA and the dealer network at large.”

Prior to this, Magasa had been the General Manager for Sales at Renault SA, after completing a 12-month development program within the Renault Group. He also holds a B-Com Accounting degree and acquired his MBA at GIBS in South Africa.

Magasa is extremely enthusiastic about the challenge on hand and has made a great start within this new position.

Mitsubishi Motors SA launches most stylish Pajero Sport to date

vuyi on September 21, 2020

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) is taking an upmarket approach with the launch of the latest version of the New Pajero Sport.

The Mitsubishi Pajero – first launched almost 38 years ago – is a true legend and lays claim to being the most successful vehicle in the history of the Dakar Rally, with no fewer than 12 wins, including seven consecutive victories.

More than 3.3 million Pajero derivatives have been sold world-wide since Mitsubishi first introduced the famous Pajero in 2006.

The new Pajero Sport is extremely important to Mitsubishi Motors and it ticks all the boxes to become our hero model
– Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa

The all-new Pajero Sport was named one of the finalists in the 2019 South African Car of the Year competition.

The new “Boss of the Mitsubishi Stable” will turn heads thanks to more style and more luxury as well as various improvements thanks to Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield design approach.

“The new Pajero Sport is extremely important to Mitsubishi Motors and it ticks all the boxes to become our hero model, says Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa. “It is important to note that Mitsubishi Motors is taking a new direction, focusing on growing market segments – and the new Pajero Sport certainly leads the way for our future.”

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Image courtesy of Quickpic

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

EXTERIOR: According to Campbell, the Dynamic Shield design, which is the new face of the Mitsubishi brand, symbolising its tough, prestigious, and legendary heritage, is clearly visible on the Pajero Sport’s front.

One of the most outstanding visual features of the new Pajero Sport is its new Dynamic Shield front grille, giving the upgraded version an enhanced, more stylish and modern look. This includes LED headlamps, daytime running lights, fog lamps and cornering lamps. To the rear, the new Pajero Sport boasts a thicker bumper with a rear diffuser to highlight the Pajero Sport’s stable stance on the road.

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Image courtesy of Quickpic

ENGINES: Mitsubishi’s most stylish Pajero Sport Exceed 8-speed A/T 4×4 is powered by the proven 2.4L MIVEC DOHC Intercooled Turbodiesel, 133Kw, 430Nm engine. It features a 68-litre fuel tank and has 218mm ground clearance. The new Pajero Sport joins existing powertrains being the:

2.4L MIVEC Turbodiesel 8-speed A/T 4×2
2.4L MIVEC Turbodiesel 8-speed A/T 4×4

Make no mistake – this is a very safe, quality-built machine
– Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa

SAFETY: To help keep occupants safe, the Pajero Sport has a variety of passive safety features such as:

7 airbags and ISOFIX child seat anchors
Active stability
Traction control (ASTC)
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
Emergency brake assist system (BAS)
Hill-start assist system (HAS)
Dusk-sensing headlights
Rain-sensing windscreen wipers
Rear park distance control
Rear-view camera

“Make no mistake – this is a very safe, quality-built machine,” says Campbell.

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Image courtesy of Quickpic

DRIVER FRIENDLY AND LUXURIOUS INTERIOR: Improvements have also been done to the already quality and comfortable cabin, offering a soft, luxurious feel, more leg room and elbow space, the aforementioned additional outlets and ports and the seven high-quality, comfortable leather seats.

“The Pajero Sport is our hero in the Mitsubishi line-up with a truly luxurious, yet practical interior,” says Campbell. This includes outstanding innovation and convenience with:

Tilt and telescopic adjustment for the steering column
Multi-function leather-clad steering wheel with audio and cruise control settings
Bluetooth with hands-free voice control
8-inch smart link display with apple car play and android auto
Full-colour digital instrument display
Automatic dual-zone air-conditioning throughout the 7-seater cabin
Electric windows
Electric parking brake with auto hold function
USB and additional accessory sockets (dual USB for the rear passengers)
220ac 150-watt power plug
Power tilt and sliding sunroof
Mitsubishi remote control connectivity and
Electronic Tailgate with Dual Kick Sensors

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Image courtesy of Quickpic

LEGENDARY 4X4 CAPABILITIES: “The 4×4 driver selector dial on the new Exceed allows the driver to select between no less than four driving modes,” says Campbell. “Serious adventurers can rest assured that Mitsubishi’s advanced Super Select 4WD II system is among the best in the world and will be an asset on any excursion.

“The Pajero Sport has a 30-degree approach angle, the best in its class, which allows adventurers to challenge tough obstacles head-on, while the 24-degree departure angle will get you back down safely.”

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Image courtesy of Quickpic

Colour: The 2020 Pajero Sport colour palette has been extended by two hues: White Diamond and Graphite Grey.

Pricing: Mitsubishi Motors South Africa offers the three derivatives, including the new Exceed, at competitive prices:

Mitsubishi Sport 4×2 Auto: R609 995
Mitsubishi Sport 4×4 Auto: R659 995
Mitsubishi Sport Exceed: R679 995

Warranty and Service: The new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport has a 3-year/100 000km manufacturer’s warranty and a 5-year/90 000km service plan with 10 000km service intervals.