Launched into a busy sector aimed at the likes of the Nissan Qashqai, the Skoda Yeti and the Kia Soul, the Mitsubishi Active Sports Crossover (ASX) is a rather neat and nimble new compact crossover that has landed on our shores.

Although we previously tested the 1.8-litre engine variant which was a sample preview unit that wasn't on sale here, we couldn't miss this one given the fact that it has a better fuel consumption and a more powerful engine. Some may say it isn't really much of a difference, but I beg to differ.

And here's why.

Exterior

Looks can be pretty important for crossovers like the ASX as it's the hint of off-road ruggedness that plays a big part of what separates them from the more mundane small cars and family hatchbacks. The ASX doesn't disappoint here as its key stylistic devices are derived from Mitsubishi's very own signature jet fighter's grille.

Up front, as always, the vast jet fighter grille dominates the car's snout-like nose, bordered by its squinty headlamps and bottom fog lamps. It has the ample aggression to grace the front of the Lancer Evolution X, giving the ASX the opportunity to get noticed.

Sporty, energetic exterior lines and a curving roof line are also visible, singing praises to Mitsubishi's design team for their perfect blend of style and vision. In addition, flared wheelarches, roof rails to mount racks for bicycles and other lifestyle gears as well as the elevated ride height (which is what differentiates it from a normal hatchback) are also noticeable on the car when viewed from the side.

At the rear, an obvious frown from the tail lights is apparent. Not exactly a bad thing if you ask me. Moreover, the single outlet tailpipe is somewhat a feel of a less sporty stance for the crossover but it's also one that makes the crossover look simple and classy, if less distinctive.

Interior

While it might not be an aid to the handling, its SUV profile does mean extra space inside.

The ASX's extra head and legroom makes its competitors seem desperately small in comparison and it's all because the car shares its wheelbase of 2670 mm with the Outlander. Hence this is the ASX's trump card. Its comparatively long wheelbase and SUV roofline means it feels particularly spacious, which implies swallowing an average family whole or having a couple of lengthy lads will be an easy fit at the back.

But if you want a premium feel, unfortunately, this may not be your cup of tea.

The interior does feel solidly built, though there's an inevitable acuity that the neater, high quality plastics only cover the areas you see and touch the most.

Apart from that, things are good inside. The control layout is simple yet precise and you certainly aren't overwhelmed by too many buttons. It's all well screwed together and, in the traditional Mitsubishi style, logical and easy to use.

The commanding driving position and high hip point offers a lofty view of the road and it makes entry and exit easy. As soon as you've found yourself a suitable seating position, the ASX offers the driver and passengers a lounge feeling thanks to the panoramic glass roof - a first for Mitsubishi Motors.

Tune up the audio volume from the controls situated on the steering wheel and you're in a world of lush. This includes the music of your choice considering that the Aux-In option and USB port are available for your MP3 player.

For stargazers and outdoorsy types, this huge glass roof is outlined by an ambient LED orange lighting and it blocks UV rays while naturally bathing the cabin in sunlight. Additionally, the two-toned leather upholstery seats further accentuates the style and class of the crossover.

While the 416 litre boot space is usefully shaped, 1,193 litres of room is freed up with the back seats folded down. It is more than enough for a few large boxes and even a couple of furniture items to boot - a feature that is definitely useful for families.

Drivetrain

Underneath its edgy body, the ASX may share some DNA with the Lancer Evolution and the Outlander. But the sporting genealogy doesn't make itself evident on the road. However, given the fact that the crossover is aimed at a completely different audience, its soft ride is forgivable.

The Mitsubishi ASX offers a nice drive if your keep speeds sensible. Despite wind noise, the 2-litre powerplant is relatively smooth, and though it won't set the world on fire when accelerated away from the lights, its ample torque output makes it punchy at medium speeds. Furthermore, Mitsubishi's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) allows the driver to experience a seamless and endless acceleration and it undoubtedly makes light work of most traffic situations.

If anything, its suspension is slightly too firm, resulting in a fidgety ride over challenging surfaces and humps. But despite its quibbles, the ride is good, with no bad habits and a well-balanced combination of poise and comfort.

The steering is well-weighted too and the car never felt any less than safe and dependable which are the qualities most buyers will expect, especially when the primary passengers are members of the family.

A little disappointment though. While the centre of gravity does contribute to more body roll, the ASX does not come with the 4WD option like the Outlander. Thus, it is unable to do its utmost to keep you and your passengers out of harm's way.

Although the crossover did not show any signs of losing traction when swung around during the test drive, it's always good to know that the availability of the 4WD mode is just a toggle away for safety sake.

Conclusion

If you happen to have a higher budget and you're looking for a premium quality interior, you may want to keep your options open as some of its competitors do a better job of hiding their budget limitations.

However, having driven the Outlander, I must say the ASX isn't too shabby. With the perfect blend of the high-level chassis stability of the Lancer Evolution X and the utility and comfort of the Outlander, this crossover is a responsible family caretaker and is unquestionably one to consider.